Replacement Windows

[virtual_voyager]

Hello group,

In the next 4-6 weeks I will be looking to replace the windows in my standard 3br 40 yr old brick rancher.

I will be contacting local installers and intend to get a minimum of 3 estimates.

Any experiences and advice on make or mfg'r of windows will be greatl appreciated.

Thanks,

VV

[ccs>ikyr]

If you give a bit more detail, you're likely to get more advice. What kind of windows do you want (double hung, casement, slider, etc.)? Do you want vinyl or wood (or wood with cladding)? Does color matter, or can you live with the standard white? What part of the country do you live in?

[virtual_voyager]

Mid-Atlantic, 2 1/2 hrs from ocean, double-hung/double-pane, never want to touch them with a paintbrush, white is fine.

I was really looking for any red flags in the replacement window business from the consumers pov.

Thanks for responding.

VV

[m Ransley]

Windows are not made equal, read an old Consumers Reports article testing 20+ windows. I had Pellas and Anderson installed the Pellas condense the Andersons dont. Look At CDF Condensing factor ratings, Also most major companies allow a 1/8th" maximum for plumb , level and square, be sure to verify before you pay because if you are 1/8th" or more out you have no warranty from day1.

[hallerb]

I bought lifetime guaranteed windows, for as long as I own my home. The installer Swingline Windows of Pittsburgh Pa stressed to always call them, never reynolds the window manufacturer.

well reynolds went out of business:(

My lifetime warranty became 10 year full warranty, then 10 years pro rata declining 10% a year:(

At 10 years I needed a couple fogged windows replaced:(

Swingline ignored my repeated calls for 6 months.

My BIG problem was these windows were to the front of house and I have

4 dogs. So it was a security issue. Had to board up windows, took units to pittsburgh window and door. less than a 100 bucks fixed the problem. hassle was boarding up windows.

swingline isnt going to like me at the coming home show, I will embarass them when their booth is nice and busy. might even set up a website dedicated to their poor custonmer service.

i wouldnt of minded paying for the glass or a service charge, again dogs were problem, couldnt leave them locked in basement all day.

lifetime warranties are smoke and mirrors.

i would of replaced the glass myself but the screws were rusted in place, window company didnt break anything:)

[dot]

Most people are using Windows XP now.....

[ccs>ikyr]

There are two old Consumer Reports articles on windows quality.. Also check with the local service ratings at

it's worth the subscription. Stay away from "Renewal by Anderson". They'll charge you as much for a plastic window as you would pay for a good wood one.

Good luck and post things as you learn them. Also, check out old threads on this topic, there are scads of them.