Renewal by Andersen

[cybazaar1]

Need help deciding between choices for replacement windows for my 25 year old aluminum windows. There are five large (5'x6') and two picture (3'x6') windows and two sliding patio doors, for which Renewal by Andersen has quoted $18K (installed, all inclusive). Other quotes for vinyl windows range from $6K to $9K and $13K for the best windows at Lowes. Is the Andersen price justified?

Thanks in advance.

[hallerb]

how long you planning on living in your home? is it a first class property or a average joe kinda home. do you want top quality or top value?

frankly most brand name stuff is overpriced hype

if home resale is in your future what kinda custmer do you expect?

[Martik]

I would say not!

I just finished replacing my 13 windows with Jeld-wen low-e argon for approx $2500. They have a lifetime warranty.

Total cost for your windows would be approx $2900 (5x300, 2x200, 2x500), at Home Depot which I believe installs for a fair price.

It is not difficult to install windows yourself plus a little help with lifting into place. Do you have siding, stucco?

[Lena]

I have observed that some companies give outrageous quotes for work, and expect that most folks will decline, but they make a killing on the few who assume that the quote is reasonable because they do not have the time to get several quotes, or because a neighbor or friend was suckered in and they figure the price was reasonable.

Then there are some ethical companies who give an honest, reasonable quote.

The name Anderson doesn't justify paying three times what someone else would charge. Labor is a big part of the cost, and how much harder is it to put in an Anderson window than an Alside window?

If you drive a BMW, drink $7 coffee at Starbucks and like impressing your friends and neighbors, go with the Andersons and leave the labels on the windows. If you drive a Ford or Chevy, go for the coffee at McD's or 7-11, and are trying to build a retirement nest egg, go for the no-name, best price.

Lena

[m Ransley]

You need to learn about their ratings and how they compare Consumer Reports has an old test done of apx 23 windows,

will help. Just an example there are 2 or three types of LowE coatings avalaible, depending on your area will determine what you need, Southern areas usualy want to block as much solar increase as they can. You need to know all the ratings to compare them. Anderson is a good product, but there are others.

[cybazaar1]

I am planning to keep the home for a long time, even if I don't live in it. I do want good quality that will last at a reasonable value, not the cheapest stuff out there.

Thanks.

[Art]

Also check

I have andersen vinyl clad windows and pella aluminum clad windows. On the south side of the house the vinyl has gotten slightly yellowed and stiff. I would go all Pella aluminum clad next time. Forget wood.

[3rd eye]

Well said.