I think what amazes me the most is that these kids feel like it's their money. I doubt any of them work. It's all their parent's money! Talk about entitlement!

Depends on what it's taped to. You could probably leave it on another painted surface for years. I've had it peel finish off a table within hours. If you visit some floor refinish sites, you'll see all kinds of damage to concrete and stone from tape.

I'd have to agree. Generally, you are not going to touch a .25 for $400... You either need a very high-quality double pane, or a triple pane to reach that. Either way, a reputable company with a professional installation will be higher than that. In addition, beware of looking at U value only. The structural ratings as Sky mentioned should be considered, as well as the shgc. Often times, companies will sell a you a window that is totally inappropriate for your climate, such as a "solar control" package that is meant for warmer climates, but sold in cold climates where it should not be. They do this because the u-value looks great (lower numerically), but it is at the expense of a super low shgc (.18-.23 or so). This could actually be detrimental to overall efficiency.... This phenomenon started when the manufacturers were caught off guard by the 2009 30/30 tax credit qualifications which were completely illogical. Instead of a window with U .31 Shgc .30, you had to actually sacrifice efficiency and go with U .30 SHGC .23 (give or take) just so you could get your $1500 rebate... Big government at its best ;).

Stump grinder..I need that! This house came with 12 stumps...most are cut nearly to the ground though..but some are nearly 3' across.. That morning tree/sun shot is stunning beauty! Christine, I only used the fine steel wool after it had "dried" out a bit..I don't have any high 100's sand paper at the moment. It was pretty crazy to watch the CS work..as I was slathering it on, it was moving the spray paint around in flecks instantly. Yes, it was a good thing it doesn't stain I forgot what I was wearing and went out to slam some more on one evening and sloshed all over a pair of new black yoga pants...but all is good.. :) I think next week I will take a door off the cabinet run I want pulled down..and give 'er a whirl with the CS. Can't be worse than the crap layers of soft chunky white paint. We are going to attempt to figure put how to open the gutters and flush them out..they have a knock off Leaf Guard on them..and I am quite sure full of Fir needles..as there is a weed growing out of one of them..lol Hmmmm something has agitated the neighborhood crows..they are fussin like nobodies business. It was peaceful on the deck...