HomeReplacementWindows.net
Can anyone recommend the best brand/make for residential vinyl replacement windows?
I am a newer homeowner and looking to replace my home's current windows to reduce the heating bill as well as asthetics. Please tell me about experiences you have had with particular brands. Thank you for your help.
Public Comments
- anderson
- You'd be much money ahead and much better off to just hire a contractor to come and give you an estimate to replace your windows with new construction windows. It's about the same amount of work and MUCH better than those replacements. You'll save thousands of dollars. I promise.
I was quoted $11,000 and $12,000 by two replacement companies. I went to Home Depot and bought all brand new Anderson windows for $2800. Then hired a contractor to put them in for $300. I did some of the work myself though.
- Your question is harder than it sounds, because replacement windows are one of the few products where national brands (like Anderson, Pella and Marvin) compete with local manufacturers, some of whom make products that are just as high quality as the national leaders.
I can tell you this much, however. Pella, at one time, was pretty much the acknowledged quality leader among national brands, and they were able to charge more as a result. Their high prices have continued, but they are no longer sufficiently superior technically to justify their premium price. The last time that Consumer Reports tested windows, they preferred Anderson. My own preference is Marvin, but the differences are pretty slight and you should let price be your guide between the two of them. But again, local makers can be just as good if you look around.
Regardless of which brand you buy, however, and especially if you go with a local maker, insist on an "education" from the seller. Ask them why their product is better than the competition. You should get meaningful answers, like more insulation, or a thinner (or thicker) window dimension, or some feature you like. If they give you a song and dance instead, move on to someone else.
Good luck!!
- There are too many brands to pick one. However, most companies make several qualities of windows. Go to a vinyl window dealer and ask for information. Why does he feel his better window is worth more money than the less expensive model? Feel is one telltale. If the demo window does not operate well, run away. Also, see if they are willing to come and measure. That way, they are responsible. Compare a couple of dealers. We usually install Allside brand, which are available at several dealers.
