Stick with the Kolbe, Marvin Ultimate's or Loewen, Jeldwen is not better today than it was 15 yrs ago. They took a Pozzi / Nordco or Vetter window (can't remember which became which) and renamed it "Siteline" and "Custom". Now you just have the same crap with a new name.

We go fishing in wyoming and its one of the most beautiful states i have ever been to. Unfortunately i cant say the same for jeldwin windows. Can you find another brand?

Possibly. The same dealer also sells Marvin. I also found a local dealer that sells Kolbe. It seems like both these get better reviews in this forum than most others. I will have estimates done on both those brands as well.

I many cases, the higher the window line in a brand; the better the window quality and durability. But it only as good as your installer skills or lack of, however. I am in the windows shopping mode too; since my original windows which are over 30 years old and are "builder's spec" quality windows have lasted so long. I open the window interior trim and my builder seem to install the windows first follow by stuccoing and then the drywall. The gap is about 1/8" in most windows openings and you cannot see the slimming job because the drywall. I went from going shopping the middle lines in a brand to now the top of the lines because I wanted 3 pane glass for noise insulation and low U factor and better air leakage numbers. I also found that some lumber yards if you ask for a customer discount; they will look up your account history with them and if it spans over 35 years like my does; they bend over backwards to give you the best deals because of your loyalty to the company! I have been surprise at the discount that I quoted, making top of line brands more affordable and desirable, just for the asking of the manager for the best discount for a long time customer! The more you shop; the more you learn about windows! There should be no rush to you to replace your windows until you are certain you are comfortably with your choices of windows and installers. There are a lot of bad service and products in this window replacement industry!

"They took a Pozzi / Nordco or Vetter window"

Sorry forgot to add Carapco to this list, they actually bought four failing miserable window companies.

Marvin and Kolbe are the two best wood windows available, IMO. They are going to be more expensive than Jeld-Wen, but with the proper maintenance, they will serve you better, for a longer period of time.

Thank you all for your advice! I will definitely look into Marvin and Kolbe.

Actually, I have another question before I continue on with getting estimates. Which wood is the most durable for the interior of the windows and will hold up better in regards to rot, mildew, and so forth, Auralast Pine or Fir? We will either have them come pre-finished or stain them ourselves. (We going with stain, not paint).

A harder wood usually hold up better but i have to agree with the gentleman above.

Many companies chemically treat their wood high end windows to last much longer and to prevent decaying from the elements. I would of course compare warranties and see how longer the wood is covered!

okay, thank you!