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changeling_gw

What replacement window is 'BEST'?

changeling
16 years ago

I have decided to have new windows installed in my house including a new Bay/Bow window, everything new.

If you were going to do this what Brand/company would you go with and why?

I have been considering Pella, Simington, etc,.

Any and all advise is welcome!!!

Just plain tired of single pain junk!!!!

Changeling

Comments (147)

  • chinchaz
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I live in montgomery county MD and considering replacing some windows on my house I have functional wood windows with storms on each one. I guess this is more of a cosmetic upgrade as the windows themselves are functional. We have looked at both simonton 5500 (estimates of around 520 per window installed) and the jeld wen builder models which are about the same price. are these good windows, is the price decent? is it worth doing? our electric bill on a 2600 sqft 2 story brick home, with full basement averages out over the year to be 210.0; gas is 80.00 a month. We have 19 windows that could be replaced. Are we crazy to replace the functioning wood windows that are original to the house circa 1952.

  • skydawggy
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    OK "Inquisitor", lets take your issues on one at a time.

    *First, can you share EcoStar Remodeling's profit margins for Sunrise, Soft-Lite, and Simonton respectively? This will help the forum to understand how financial gain may play in to your "strong" opinions. *

    This is a common accusation, particularly from someone who just registered today and is anonymously hiding behind a keyboard. I haven't made any negative statements in this thread. I have simply asked someone who made some statements to provide data to back up their claims. Which of course they haven't been able to do and so they faded into the background. Those who have been reading my "stong opinions" for many years, know that I don't promote certain products because we sell them, we sell them because they are top-notch products. I am also able to explain to anyone who asks, exactly why they are top-notch products and then to back up my "strong opinions" with factual data. I simply expect no less from anyone posting on internet forums. Especially those who post anonymously.

    I actually don't think Wincore is a bad product, I just don't see any reason to purchase it instead of Simonton. That's all I've asked the other anonymous poster to do and to date, he hasn't been able to provide any.

    *Second, does EcoStar Remodeling stand behind your dismissive representation of Simonton quality? As well, is Simonton aware of this opinion you are expressing publicly?*

    Please feel free to point out where I have ever said anything that is untrue. Oh, and be prepared to back it up. I will be awaiting another anonymous post from you with some factual information. In the meantime, please feel free to contact EcoStar Remodeling. Our phone number is right on the website and my name is John. We don't hide behind keyboards and computer monitors.

  • skydawggy
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Sorry "Inquisitor", I just realized you might also be upset about my posting the BBB for Castle Windows with the voluminous complaints. Don't you think consumers should thoroughly investigate a company before doing business with them? Do you think high pressure , "the deal is only good today" sleazy sales tactics are OK and shouldn't be exposed. Is this what got you upset with me?

    I can assure you that at EcoStar Remodeling, we don't use these kind of tactics. We feel that if you provide someone with factual information and a firm but reasonable price and then give them time to decide, that's preferable to using inflated prices, Model Home pitches, phony price drops and fake calls to managers for additional discounts, but only if you buy today. We also believe that using quality products and the most advanced installation techniques are preferable to the "caulk and walk" jobs that plague the replacement window industry. I guess we are just "Old School".

  • inquisitor59
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    skydawggy, you are a real prize.

    You completely dodged the first question and then bashed me for posting as a new registered member and hiding behind a keyboard. You should feel proud that your over-the-top arrogance compelled me to take the time to register so that I could weigh in for the benefit of the forum. That was a first for me.

    "I don't carry either brand as my main window so I really couldn't care less. We do sell a few Simonton windows but only when we have people asking for them." I consider this dismissive in the context of the thread. Of course I may stand alone with this opinion...

    Your apparent toxic combination of insecurities and feelings of grandeur preclude you from engaging in a constructive adult exchange. It's clear that no good can come from interacting with you further. It seems others, like Roger Radcliff, came to the same conclusion and chose to detach themselves from your attacks.

    Feel free to throw your darts to get the last word and sooth your ego.


  • skydawggy
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Which question was that? You mean the one where you requested I post financial information for an anonymous poster on the internet to view? I make no secret that I am dealer. I can also provide detailed information as to why I carry the brands I do. Had you taken some time to read a little, you would also have discovered that I have positive reviews of many windows that we don't carry. Among them are Okna, Gorell, Polaris, PGT, Amerimax, Anlin, Milgard, Marvin as well as many others. Tell you what, when you post your personal tax returns and bank statements as well as identify yourself, I'll consider it.

    In the meantime, I will repeat, since you obviously are having some reading comprehension problems, where have I "bashed" any company or anybody? If you consider asking someone to provide information to back up a claim "bashing" then consider me an abuser. I will also state again for the comprehension challenged, I don't think Wincore is a bad product. I have taken a look at it and it seems to be fairly well built, but I couldn't find any reason to carry it as it appeared to me to be a Simonton clone. So why buy a clone when you can carry the real thing and sell it for the same price? We also don't sell many Simontons either because there are better windows available in the same price range. I just wanted someone to explain to me, and for the benefit of people who read this forum, why a consumer should purchase a Wincore Window over another brand. This seems to be a reasonable question to ask given the purpose and focus of this forum. I have yet to recieve an answer. Can you provide one so we can all learn something?

  • keith1951
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    just wanted everyone to know, that the sun destroys vinyl and fiberglass windows that face the southern sun. i have not seen any window products that will stand up to the sun for long periods of time, except aluminum...also,vinyl when extremely cold will crack if pushed against or hit with something like a tennis ball. i live in california where the southern sun is extream...my house has aluminum windows,some installed in 1951,and some in 1959. all might have a little oxidation on them,but have stood against the sun and heat for 50 yrs. if you have some windows on the north side of your home,or under a roof on a porch,then you could get away with vinyl or fiberglass windows there. i will replace my single pane aluminum windows with double pane aluminum windows....they are the best....maybe MARVIN makes a good one.....

  • keith1951
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    PS. i forgot to add that my aluminum windows went through the 1971 and the 1994 earthquakes,which were both very intense...lost a lot of dishes,tvs,driveways,ect...but not one pane of glass broke nor were they ruined in an way....it was amazing...

  • PRO
    Windows on Washington Ltd
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Keith,

    You are certainly correct that aluminum, even in an un-coated capacity, has great wear characteristics in the intense sun, however, there is nothing about the newer vinyls or fiberglass that says they will not function wonderfully in the intense sun for decades.

    Do you have any facts to back up what are some pretty strong claims? Most of the vinyl that you will have seen are builders grade junk and the equivalent windows, even in aluminum, will not last either. I have seen plenty of aluminum windows fail in similar new construction quality units.

    Please do not post up a link of vinyl-windows.org supposed "facts". This page has long been identified as being sponsored by other than vinyl window manufacturers.

    Fiberglass is well proven in exterior applications and if you need any proof of that, take a look at any marina and you will see fiberglass hull boats that are 40 years old and still fine in extremely harsh conditions (i.e. salt water, etc).

  • harry_wild
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    "I don't mean to be rude but I think $625.00 per window is rather high for literally just another window company and anyone who pays $1000.00 for a standard size DH window needs his/her head examined. It's vinyl and glass, not gold and silver. The cost of the window and 1 to 1.5 hours to install doe's not equate to those kind of prices.
    I'm starting to really see now why there are so many companies making windows, it's about as lucrative as it gets! "

    I had a custom replacement window dealer quoted me $1,500 per 7' X 5' window. He saids he is the best in the world and I should think that it is dirty cheap. That the reason I still have my original windows now after 5 years of him giving me the quote. He was such a greedy company. The same size window at Home Depot was $400 at the time.

  • HomeSealed
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Harry, you are absolutely correct, the cost of that window plus 1 to 1.5 hrs of labor does not = $625. That being said, just like in any other business, there are a substantial amount of other costs that a business incurs. Do you complain that your $40 pair of jeans probably had a direct cost of less than $1? Or that your $5 starbucks coffee was probably a few cents? The only guys that can install a window for the cost of labor and materials are those who's only expense is the case of Milwaukee's Best that he drinks as he installs your windows which will inevitably leak.
    Is $1500 gouging for a standard window? Absolutely. For a 7' x 5' DH / PIC / DH ? Not at all, (as that would technically be 3 windows, at an average of $500ea). I don't know the specifics of your exact quote, but you get the idea. $600 is not out of line at all for a premium vinyl window.

  • Sylvanessa
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Need a quick opinion. I am replacing 1960's Aluminum sliding windows. I am in the NW area of Missouri. I have spent all day at dealers and on forums pricing, reading reviews, etc.
    OK now here's the question. I am down to a few brands in my price range. Simonton, American Craftsman, Reliabilt and a local company called Columbia. In all brands the 4 windows cost roughly the same total. Right now Simonton seems the best. But....

    So if anyone could help I would greatly appreciate it. Or even recommend another brand that would be close to $1000-1300 total for a 72x52, 2 36x52's and a 32x38 all double pane double hung vinyl.

    I have installation well covered. Personal friend/contractor.

  • PRO
    Windows on Washington Ltd
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Simonton is the best of that group.

    I would also look for Soft-Lite and Sunrise as well if it were my home.

  • HomeSealed
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    So that price is just windows (no installation), correct?
    Simonton would be the only choice that I'd consider in that group. I'd agree with WoW that you may be able to find someone selling Sunrise or Softlite in that area as well.

  • Sylvanessa
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    TY for the replies. I did end up with the Simontons. Went with the 5500 series.

  • yatesd
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Glad to hear you didn't choose Pella. Our home was built using Pella Proline windows and is a little over 10 years old.

    Almost all the windows need to be replaced due to hidden damage caused by failure between the aluminum cladding and the window. They were rotting from the inside out!

    The warranty was 10 years, but I didn't discover the extent of the damage until a month too late. Pella wouldn't do anything...ugh. I had a window fail during the warranty period and even that was a hassle.

    In case there is anyone in the same situation, there is a class action lawsuit that may apply to you.

    Here is a link that might be useful: Pella Law Suit

  • PellaCommMngmt
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Hello yatesd,

    Thank you for sharing your feedback about your Pella windows and allowing us to address your concerns. We are committed to customer satisfaction and strive to help customers online as well as offline. Many things can impact the performance of products in your home. For example, your climate and environment, the type and style of construction in your home, the way the product is installed and ongoing maintenance can all play a role in product performance. We are continually enhancing our products to meet customer needs.

    Please connect with our Customer Support Specialists so that we can understand the specifics of your situation and how we may be able to assist you. You can reach our Customer Support Specialists toll-free at 855-735-5232, or by e-mailing pellawebsupport@pella.com. Please include your contact info, your concerns and purchase location, if known, in the e-mail. We look forward to hearing from you!

    Sincerely,
    Hillary B., Pella Community Manager

  • millworkman
    12 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    ah the old "please contact" message directly copied out of the customer service handbook. I personally know of a bunch of people who have the same issues, the same rotting and have received the same lack of support as well as a lack of communication from Pella. If issues with the product were handled even remotely properly there would not be the issue with all the class action lawsuits out there.

  • glm38
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    We installed simonton windows in our 30 plus year old home about 5 years ago. We got a lot of estimates and looked around a lot. The simontons seemed to be the best combination of quality and price in our area (SW MO).

    We have not been disappointed. The windows have been one of our best purchases ever. We love them and they are holding up perfectly.

  • mmarse1
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    the simonton 9800 and 5500 are decent mid grade windows. my problem with simonton is that they are bulky and lack in performance compared to higher end brands such as Okna- HiMark- Sunrise- Soft Lite, and Gorell.

  • glm38
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    They don't seem "bulky" to me? I don't know how the performance could be better either. They have great features like double pane argon filled glass, low e coating, tilt in for cleaning, etc, etc. All for a GREAT price.

  • EcoStarRemodel
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    You did fine by purchasing Simontons. Especially if you got a great price.

  • mmarse1
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    gee, what an accomplishment, they tilt in.. every window can tilt in and every window offers argon. simonton only get a Ufactor of .30 in double pane glass. All the higher end vinyl get .28 or better; in fact some get a double pane ufactor of .25 and thats double pane and whole window ufactor.

  • glm38
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Gee what an accomplishment to make snarky derogatory comments about someone else's statement.

  • lovecruzin
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'm thinking of buying Polaris 8000 with triple pane..........can anybody tell me anything about them?

  • mmarse1
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    its a decent window.mhaveou looked at Okna, Sunrise,or Softlite ?

  • mmarse1
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    its a decent window.have you looked at Okna, Sunrise,or Softlite ?

  • PRO
    Windows on Washington Ltd
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Polaris makes a nice window. Their UltraWeld series is a very solidly performing window.

  • diorwing
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I am looking for new vinyl windows (casement)
    How important is it to buy foam filled frames for improved insulation?
    They cost more,but do they make a considerable difference?
    (I live in Canada)
    Thanks for your input

  • mmarse1
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    If you have the option of getting a foam filled frame, do it. It adds some insulation value as well as rigidity.

  • EntryPointExteriors
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    A lot of wayward opinions on this thread.....best advise that I see here is "...have you looked at Okna, Sunrise,or Softlite ?"

  • DIY505
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Sunrise - Negative Review:
    I had a recent experience with Sunrise windows that I want others to know about. The only way I heard about Sunrise was through sites like this with all the praise of Sunrise. I had a very negative experience with them. I sent a message through the contact us part of their website that I wanted an estimate on 12 replacement windows and gave them the dimensions. They pass my info along to the local dealer who wants to come out and talk. They end up sending a guy who claims to be a Sunrise Manufacture’s Rep (not a sales guy) and says he reports directly to the Sunrise President.

    From the get go I tell him I do not like to make quick decisions on large purchases and that Marvin Fiberglass windows were way out of my price range. He starts referring to me as “Mr. Thrifty” at this point. He continues to spend 1.5 hours at my house going over the Verde window. It takes him well over 30 minutes to put a price together. When he does, it is written on a sheet of notebook paper and is for $12k. He pulls out an official looking form and says he will take off $2k today only if I put 50% down today. This is very close to the price Marvin quoted me (Marvin was $14k). I said this was too expensive so he said the next level down they offer is the Essentials line. Exact same window frame as the Verde, but the glass inside the window was not as energy efficient and did not come with as many color options. The today only price for it was $6700.

    I tell him that I am not making a decision today, but who should I call if I want to proceed. He said “Do not bother calling anyone”. He tells me that I was not going to go with their window, got in his car and left.

    I have several issues with this “Manufacture’s Rep”:
    - The form he wanted me to sign for the 1 day only discount said I needed to put their sign in my front yard, twice a year for 30 days at a time. I said we were in a neighborhood with guidelines and I did not know if that was allowed. He lied and said he already checked and it was allowed.
    - He bad mouthed Marvin windows every chance he got.
    - He used high pressure sales tactics to try to get me to buy that day and then left in a huff with no price quote when I would not play ball.
    - He tried to say the Essential line was the same frame as the Verde with different glass. I read on Replacement Window Sites that is not the case.

    The guy wasted 2 hrs of my Saturday, left without giving an official estimate, lied to me, and was rude to me. I do not do business with people like that and want others to know Sunrise’s business practices to save them the trouble I went through. I would have never contacted them if I knew this is what they would do. I read Champion Windows does this type of thing as is why I will not consider Champion Windows.

  • DIY505
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    A follow up to my previous post. Sunrise informed me the "Manufacture's Rep" I was dealing with was not a Sunrise employee, but a Sunrise vendor. They apologized for the conduct. It may be that I just got unlucky with who called on me.

  • DIY505
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Sunrise Verde windows are great. After my very bad experience with a Salesperson that represented a Sunrise vendor, my experience changed for the better. Both Sunrise and the vendor called me to discuss the negative experience. I ended up trusting both again and purchased Verde windows from them. I am very pleased with the end result and would recommend to anyone.

  • PRO
    Windows on Washington Ltd
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good follow up.

    They are a solid company and make a nice product.

  • windowinsulators
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    A bad installer can make any window into crap.
    Proper measuring is critical
    every window " hole " needs 8 measures
    side to side at top, middle and bottom
    up and down right side ,center and left side
    both diagonals ( the X ) measure.
    Too many installers force it in.

  • susanlynn2012
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    windowinsulators, I agree that is I not just the window that needs to be good but also the installer.

    mmarse1 , you posted "If you have the option of getting a foam filled frame, do it. It adds some insulation value as well as rigidity.". The quote I have is for Sunrise Vinyl Replacement Windows- Triple Glaze Ultra-U-Plus High Performance Low "E" Glass, Contoured Colonia Grids, Foam Filled Frames (what you mention so this must be good), contoured Recessed Locks, and Poly Foam Wrap Insulation, Opti-View screening, White inside/outside, Lifetime Transferable Warranty.

    This will be for three big windows. I am waiting for the Okna dealer to give me a quote and then I will share the two windows to help me decide. So far I like this window.

  • Harold47
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Has anyone ever heard of Slocomb windows, I didn't see them mentioned in any of the posts.

  • mmarse1
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Slocomb is average. Not a fan of how they use fiberglass as insulation opposed to foam. I think that is very bizarre.

  • ashleymore
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    In my experience, vinyl windows I believe is the 'BEST'. Earlier I had single pane windows which were ruining the decor of my home and also it had issues in winter, I used to feel much more cold in winters and in summers they became super hot.

    I wasn't able to rely on such windows, therefore, I got it replaced with vinyl windows. Moreover, I found them really reliable and affordable. I got them from here.

    Here is a link that might be useful: value windows and doors

    This post was edited by ashleymore on Wed, Jul 30, 14 at 5:24

  • UlyssesSGrant
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Although this is an old thread, it's a huge help. We're in St. Louis and bought Pellas because we thought they were top of the line. Erroneously thought that top quality windows would be a lifetime purchase. That was in the 1980s and today we have problems with almost every one of our 20 windows, from sun damage to failing hardware. We will reach out to Pella but judging from this we don't expect much response. Not going to waste time with Andersen -- they sounds like a carbon copy. Would love an update from the people who replied to this thread and said they recently had windows installed and were happy with them: still happy? (I believe top quality windows SHOULD be a lifetime purchase.)

  • Michealsmith
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    You can go for Chicago windows and Doors, this company is best for windows replacement. I recommend this company because I have personally experienced. A few months ago I needed to change my 1960s style bay windows. Then my friend suggest me for this company I went there. I was impressed about their knowledge of window replacement. They also provide good quality of products. After changing the windows it's look very gorgeous and very stylish.

  • jnkirkpatrick57
    9 years ago

    I'm considering Vista City Comfort windows based on a friend's recommendation and good price, $350-400. The largest 3 slide window is only $500!!

  • jnkirkpatrick57
    9 years ago

    Oh and a lifetime guarantee!!

  • millworkman
    9 years ago

    Start a new thread and name the manufacturer if you are looking for advice. I found nothing googling Vista City Comfort windows but that price seems to cheap for a quality product if that is an installed price. But impossible to tell without more info.

  • jnkirkpatrick57
    9 years ago

    The quote is for the Panorama window system from the Vista window comp. they received top rating in recent door and window magazine. VistaWindowCo.com

  • bkocen
    8 years ago

    Has anyone heard of the brand of vinyl replacement window Okna Enviro-Star (800 series) Double Hung windows? Also which replacement window product is better Vinyl, Composite, or Fiberglass? I live in Va. and I was told that with our occasionally cold winters the fiberglass can crack? I have received about 5-6 estimates and everyone has an opinion which product is better, the estimates that i have received per window including rapping the wood around the window have ranged from $500 to $1,300 per window. It's crazy, I need help!!!

  • PRO
    Window1
    8 years ago
    last modified: 8 years ago

    Agree, fiberglass does have some inherent issues contrary to what many assert. Further, fiberglass windows just are'nt as air tight as high end vinyl offerings such as Okna, Soft Lite, Sunrise, or Kensington.

  • HU-573561
    6 years ago

    Can anyone comment on the durabiity of the Atrium series 8300 replacement window?? I live in Columbia, SC

  • PRO
    Windows on Washington Ltd
    6 years ago

    The web is light on information on that product. They make a decent middle of the road window, but I don't see anything with regards to thermal values or air infiltration. If we are talking about product performance in the home, those are a couple of the big points that we will need to focus in on.