WOW: "When a window is Gold Label certified, it is supposed to be a representative sample of the window submitted for testing." Gold Label/Hallmark test sizes are not worst case in terms of the air infiltration calc...the smallest size typically is. The difference can be be pretty large, and some companies base advertising on this worst case size scenario, some don't. Also, some companies may seek that the claim has statistical validity (as in some sort of confidence interval), leading them to publish lower performing numbers in general. (Others just test just a few units, which can result in a higher claim). Also, some companies take liberties with the phrase "representative," interpretating it to mean prepresentative of design intent, not necesarily production...the part size and placement variation that occurs over the production of many units can have large impact on air infiltration performance. Without ensuring that the exact same approach is used, it's misleading to compare the numbers...

Assuming you have actually seen samples of both windows, the Simonton would be the better buy. The Ultramaxx is a window that hasn't been redesigned for many years and is lacking in many ways starting with it's overblown boxy look. If you have seen a sample you will realize it reduces the glass more than any other window on the market that I'm aware of. It also employs and 80's designed snap-in pocket sill. Pocket sills allow water to drain through the frame and with the water also comes pollen, atmospheric dirt and debris and even dead insects. Given enough time the weep system on the window can become clogged with debris allowing water to fill up inside the frame leading to eventual mold and mildew. Additionally Solar60 glass has either 1 or 2 layers of LoE. I would also add that Alside does not have a great reputation for consistent quality. Simonton Reflections 5500 has a co-extruded sill that has 3 steps in it, a much more intelligent design that allows rain to drain without entering the inside of the frame. This design eliminates the possibility of gunk clogging inside the frame. The LoE 366 glass gives you 3 layers of LoE which reduces the Solar Heat Gain. This is important if you live in a warm part of the country. Since you didn't say what kind of spacer you were quoted, I will assume it was Super Spacer since that is what is offered by Simonton with the 366 glass. You also have a 1" IGU included. Super Spacer is a non-conductive Silicon foam Spacer which is specifically engineered to expand and contract with the glass, therefore reducing the possibility of a glass seal failure and minimizing the potential for argon gas leakage. Plus Simontons customer service is absolutely top notch. Alside can be very difficult to deal with if a warranty issue arises. Often taking a great deal of time and effort to get warranty issues resolved.

I’ve worked for THD for almist 4 years now, the 6500 which is exclusive to THD is ”close” in design to the Reflections 5500 (Consumer Reports #1 vinyl window 2/23) BUT with two major differences! Our 6500 has two ”standard” features that would be considered ”upgrades” on the 5500. The first is the 6500 uses the Supercept spacer system vs the Intercept used on the 5500. Secondly, the 6500 comes standard with 7/8 IGU, Double Double-Strength glass, which significantly reduces external noise penetration and accidental glass breakage. This is an upgrade option on the 5500. We also offer a doulble lifetime, transferrable warranty on the 6500 with Accidental glass breakage covered for the first 5 years. A unheard of lifetime labor warranty called ”the promise” which states you will never have to deal with the manufacturer or the installer (as ALL the other companies do by having a 1-3 year labor warranty) you have a problem you call the Home Depot and we’ll take care of it. And you’ll never have to worry about us retiring or going out of business in the next 15+ years!

Wow: as a newcomer let me first thank you for spending time here. I just realized that the 5500 has a lift rail too. You see they don't bring their best window when they make the sales visit. In fact I think I saw an Alside so I will have to visit the store. Similarly I only got to see the Bainbridge and Barrington. i can live with a lift rail to get what counts. on the simonton I'm getting double strngth glass, pro solar (I see that there are upgrades available to this), full screens, colonial grids between glass,and clad aluminum exterior casings ( is that standard) and wood grain interior. 9 windows one picture rest DH, 5 are 70 inches with standard 30 inch opening. Average cost 720 per window. Don't have a soft lite quote yet for LS but it looks like it maybe 100 more. are there any options like super spacer (?) 1 inch insulating glass, low e 366 that I should add to improve ratings?