Motherof3, We are actually doing a smaller window over the sink. Our current window is so big that our kitchen cabinets are only 11", which has been problematic for storing things. We will still have a nice-sized window, just not quite so big. We do not plan on changing the size of any other window. Our property backs up to wooded land owned by the University of North Carolina. They have no plans to develop it, so we are very fortunate. Our current siding is no-name brand masonite-like siding. We thought it was masonite (it was a spec house, so we weren't sure, but it's what some folks in the construction business told us), so we applied to the masonite class action, but were turned down because we had "fake" masonite. UGH! Unfortunately, we did an addition before we knew we had fake masonite, or even that there was a problem with the siding, so we have a lot of it. We probably don't need to replace it all now, but everyone I have talked to has recommended that as long as we are doing it, we should just bite the bullet and do it all. So I guess we will. View West, Thanks for the recommendation. Unfortunately, the company we want to use for both the siding and the windows (which is owned by a good friend) does not sell either of the brands you recommend. My DH will call our friend to discuss options. We could use another window installer, but then we would lose the advantage of having the work done by someone we trust totally.

I'm interested to hear that sliders are out and casements in; we're replacing our windows as part of a remodel and were encouraged to use sliders by our contractor and window installer (Milgard). We're in Oregon, maybe things are different in various parts of the country? In any event, I would probably go with white windows (that's what we're using) but then again I tend towards the safe and boring. I think white is pretty standard in a lot of houses, so it's unlikely to look dated.

My My what scathing reviews on Alside windows. If one didn't know better they'd think the forum was dominated by other window reps. I'm 59 years old been in construction since I was 17 I have run a window and siding business for the last 32 years. I have put in just about every window on the market. The rap the Alside windows are getting in here range from laughable to absurd. Is it the best window on the market, definitely not. Is it the quality that some are claiming in here, absolutely not. Do you need to buy a Mercedes to get 200,000 miles on the engine? I have installed 1000's of Alside windows over the years from Eternal welds to the Ultramax dog. I also offer a 15 year personal labor warranty on any Alside window we install. I can assure you my phone is not ringing off the hook with claims. I have had Alside windows in my house for the past twenty years. Outside of replacing a few finger pulls and re-screening they have performed flawlessly. No twisting,balance failures,or wind infiltration. Contrary to what has been said on this forum, installing Alside windows doesn't turn your home into a portal to Hell. Most of the complaints in this forum are consistent with installation flaws.I would be a bit more leery of those making the claim than the product In closing let me say this: Anyone who would pay more than $350 for a window installed in his house is an idiot. Those of you who are having such problem with repairs should look to lower your cost for the product and spend the money on quality installers. Those of you who have had them installed by "reputable" companies may need to do a bit more research before agreeing to a contract.

Been there / done that! The best information comes from a non-salesman. Try talking directly with customers. If a company will not furnish a reference list than that means they are afraid of what their customers will tell you. Most reputable dealers should have a brag-book full of glowing surveys or lists of people who had indicated to them that they have had a positive experience and want others to share in the same experience, so they offer themselves up as a referral or reference. You can also consult Angie's List for your area to see if there are any positive or negative reports about the company or their products. Price is not a valid measure. The guy who invented the pet rock retired a multi-millionaire at the age of 28 because he convinced people to pay for something they could have picked up in the park for free