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embedded_tim

Simonton windows + tyvek + tape

embedded_tim
11 years ago

Howdy folks!

I lurked/posted a few times last year when I was attempting to work up the nerve to replace some windows + siding. I'm getting myself a little closer everyday.

I'm starting to settle in on Simonton Profinish Contractor series windows and I have a few questions:

1. Any likes/dislikes for these windows? I've noticed that the Simonton name is well regarded on this site.

2. Both Simonton's install instructions and Dupont's Tyvek install instructions specify that either 'order' (putting on tyvek first, then window, then butyl tape OR window, then butyl tape, then tyvek) is acceptable. Is there a preferred approach by the industry veterans? Putting in the windows, placing the butyl tape, then tyvek'ing would allow my job to move at a slower, more 'enjoyable', pace :).

3. Anyone have experience with Tyvek Flexwrap? It seems like the Dupont recommended install is to just place the Flexwrap on the bottom sill pan and a few inches up the window side-walls. This always has stricken me as something that would unalign the extension jambs (no longer flush) on the interior walls.

Thanks in advance for any answers or advice!

Tim

Comments (7)

  • PRO
    Windows on Washington Ltd
    11 years ago

    Tim,

    I like the Tyvek suite of flashing products and the butyl is certainly preferable to asphalt tapes.

    I am not a fan of wrapping the Tyvek in the home but I know it is the more "specified" new construction application. You can wrap the Tyvek to the outside and be just as, if not more, water tight.

    The ProFinish is a good, solid window. Not my favorite and probably not as good as some of the other premium units but still very good.

  • embedded_tim
    Original Author
    11 years ago

    Thanks for the response!

    So, do you caulk/nail in the windows first, then place the butyl tape, then tyvek over?

    Do you prefer any other vinyl windows over the ProFinish line that is reasonably close in pricing?

    Thanks so much!

  • PRO
    Windows on Washington Ltd
    11 years ago

    Flex wrap the sills, bedding bead of sealant on the back of the flange and RO, set window, shim/square/plumb and nail off, straight flash the jambs and head, wrap tyvek over the top, seal with tyvek tape on sides, skip tape head, try to tuck tyvek on bottom under the flex wrap.

    Done and done.

    The ProFinish is okay. I prefer HiMark, Soft-Lite, Sunrise, and Affinity but I am not sure where you are located and if they are available. The great thing about Simonton is that you can get it anywhere.

  • embedded_tim
    Original Author
    11 years ago

    windowsonwashington-

    Have you seen the Simonton Brickmold series? Do you have any thoughts? I'm comparing them to ProFinish Contractor.

    I visited ABC supply (I think its national) and they offered "Ellison" windows in addition to Simonton. Do you have any experience with that brand? Their brickmold offering looked very nice.

    Thanks so much for your help!

  • HomeSealed
    11 years ago

    Never heard of Ellison, but I know that ABC sells several lines. Simonton is a solid company and product, and is widely available. Depending upon where you are located, you may have access to some of the better performers as well. Softlite/Gorell, Sunrise, and HiMark/Okna all have some type of offering either through distribution (like ABC, Allied, etc), or through dealers that will sell DIY.

  • embedded_tim
    Original Author
    11 years ago

    When people mention soft-lite on this site, are they referring to "Soft-lite" windows (www.soft-lite.com) or Gorell's "Soft-lite" (www.gorell.com)??

    Very confusing!!

    I can get my hands on Sunrise windows, but they appear to be quite a bit more $ than Simonton Profinish Contractors. Is the price difference worth it?

    Thanks!

  • HomeSealed
    11 years ago

    On Softlite: Same company, different product lines. They are all pretty good however. Their top 3 offerings: Elements, Imperial LS and Gorell 5300 are the best choices, but all of their lines are above average at worst.
    On the price difference between Sunrise and Simonton, whether or not it is worth it depends on how much that difference is, as well as your priorities for the project.I would say that the Sunrise is better quality and performance, however again, those other factors will determine whether or not it is worth the premium. I will say this, it is always my recommendation to buy the best product that fits within your budget, assuming that it is a fair deal.