confusion--too many names / brands / models

12 years ago

My head spins to the point of exhaustion when I read all the posts about replacement windows and I throw myself on your good graces, at the risk of repeating old information.

I would love to have some suggestions as to manufacturers / models for what seems to me to be my simple needs.

I need to replace fifteen windows, un-named brand and un-traceable, which were bought builder's grade presumably from Lowe's twenty-five years ago. The original windows are all now having some problems with the weird spring in their side sashes that keeps the windows gliding smoothly. I am unable to locate replacement parts or repair, as the windows were all originally placed in from the exterior as single-hung sealed units.

What I am looking for are aluminum exterior, wood interior, 30" x 60" windows without lites, either single- or double-hung, I don't much care, as plain as plain can be. Without installation, anything decent to last another twenty-five years in the $400-$500 range? I live in central Virginia.

I'm not trying to get out of doing my homework, its just an overwhelming number of brands.......

Thanks for any thoughts.

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Comments (6)

PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
12 years ago
Is the range that you threw out just on the materials or are you looking for an installed price?

I don't think your range will get you into a good clad wood windows installed by any stretch. That is right at the bottom end of the scale for what is normally good vinyl installation prices.

I consider a good clad wood window to be Marvin, Eagle, Loewen. Pella might make the lower end of that list as well but they seem to be fraught with issues.
millworkman
12 years ago
I second wow, a decent wood/extruded aluminum clad window will cost you that all on its own without any installation.
shadygrove
Original Author
12 years ago
Yes, thanks. I had meant that figure to be the uninstalled price--for the materials alone. Any recommendations with that clarification?
skydawggy
12 years ago
The only thing you are going to find in that price range is going to be something like Trimline or Peachtree.
shadygrove
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks for the Marvin, Lowen and Eagle recommendation.
millworkman
12 years ago
It has been a few years since I sold wood windows but after thinking about it sky is correct, you won't touch a Marvin, or Loewen window for those price and I am sure Eagle will be more as well. Marvin is an excellent window but comes with a price, Loewen and Eagle in my opinion are ok to good windows but not in Marvin's class