Yes, I've heard that many newer windows have balance mechanism problems. In fact, Traco has big problems with historic commercial double hung failures (they supplied windows for the Statue of Liberty restoration...fortunately not double hung). I have not had any clutch problems with the Marvins, the tilt feature is just a PITA. I can live with the poor tilt function. Biggest problem with the Marvins; the braided cords break. When the cords break, you have an inoperable window. They don't break during tilting. It just happens. If you open the sashes, they will break. If you don't open the window, or open rarely, they break less often. I am tired of taking apart windows, and replacing balance mechanisms. They are now out of warranty, so my next round of repairs will get expensive. It is just an unfortunate, under-engineered design and product. If you are buying new windows to reduce maintenance, then Marvin is not your window. Mightyanvil, I'm glad you haven't experienced the same problems with your Ultimates. t

I have shades at all our windows...outside mounts, room darkening...i work nights and sleep daytime and want TOTAL darkness...when their up, their hidden by curtains or toppers and they NEVER had to be taken down and washed...when we bought this house, the women had cheap imitation levolors at every window...i threw 27 of them in the trash... I hope you find what suits you soon...just not a fan of blinds...unless their the big wooden slats that are easier to clean!

Wow I guess we all have different eyes. I would change backsplash to a white subway , paint walls lighter (near white) keep cabs and counter as is and get a custom treatment for existing window(swing arm w classy fabric you can swing open or close or halfway if not sitting at desk) . A white subway tile with tan/brown grout showing in same position as your tile and whitish walls would do a lot. You want the 4 in backsplash and rip out that granite and paint the cabs and pay to rip out a unique window? I'm confused then. The cabs in truth are good looking but older w no drawers. Best leave them add hardware as you will want to replace at a certain point.

This video goes over methods for shoreline construction in your part of the country. I believe the builder uses Anderson 400 windows. Marvin also offers windows with hardware aimed at coastal conditions.