House Windows
Anyone know anything about the quality of "windows USA", vinyl windows. Dealer said they are the most energy efficient window made. I was impressed with the demo he had. Just wandering if anyone has them in their house.
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quote:Originally posted by ssmag
Anyone know anything about the quality of "windows USA", vinyl windows. Dealer said they are the most energy efficient window made. I was impressed with the demo he had. Just wandering if anyone has them in their house.
Windows have a Energy Rating sticker. Ask what the numbers are for each window you shop for. Two energy saving features all windows should have is Low e glass and inert gas filled, (usually argon), cavity between panes.0 -
I hope you aren't considering getting replacement windows done by a "professional". Replacing your windows yourself is easier than you think. It takes about 1/2 hour per window start to finish. You can do it by yourself in a weekend.
Replacement windows are $75-$175/each depending on size. 1 or 2 tubes of caulk/window. Multiply that by how many windows you have and you'll see what these guys are charging to put them in.
Replacement windows installation is one of the biggest scams going! I've seen quotes up to $22000 for $1200 worth of windows.0 -
I have seen those in alot of newer homes around here. Quality... well I honestly cant say until I go back after a few years and re-appraise one and see how the windows are holding up.
I agree with Slipgate though. Dont pay someone unless you physically cant lift the windows. We are replaceing all the windows in our house too. We chose Jeldwen windows (wood) but they also have very nice vinyl ones. I have installed 3 myself, without David's help so far. So if this little girl can do it so can you!0 -
Darn, I thought you had to remove the siding on the house around the window to tack the paper in out say 8" or so. That would make it a much bigger job! 0 -
Basically you are removing the "guts" of the window - the sashes and metal slides for most 30-35 year old windows - its a little different for the windows with the weights.
You don't remove anything on the outside and none of the trim. The learning curve is super quick. The first window took me 45 minutes start to finish and by the 18th window, it was taking 20 minutes. And when I say finish, I mean totally done and ready to look out.
I used American Craftsman which is guarenteed for life and is Home Depots brand. I had one problem with one window breaking the seal (fog in the window) - called them and a week later I had the new sash. No worries!
My utility bills have gone down at least 30%!0 -
IMO...Andersen makes the best window on the market. I would not put anything else in my house...same thing goes with sliders and patio doors. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by slipgate
Replacement windows are $75-$175/each depending on size. 1 or 2 tubes of caulk/window. Multiply that by how many windows you have and you'll see what these guys are charging to put them in.
Humm, I could use 10 units "12 over 2" wood sash double hung, 48w by 96h.
Somehow I don't think even $175ea will cover the cost.0 -
This is what I got http://www.americancraftsmanwin.com/index.cfm the 8500 series. The most expensive window was $166 and that was like 5ft by 3ft. The cheapest was $65 for the basement ones. I am not sure they have wood, I got vinyl.
Also I am pretty sure that Anderson will not allow Harry Homeowner to install their windows, including their replacement windows. So instead of $2k it become $10k-$15k. Also American Craftsman have a better warranty than Anderson.
Pella is every bit as good or better than Anderson and you can do those yourself.0 -
quote:Originally posted by slipgate
This is what I got http://www.americancraftsmanwin.com/index.cfm the 8500 series. The most expensive window was $166 and that was like 5ft by 3ft. The cheapest was $65 for the basement ones. I am not sure they have wood, I got vinyl.
Also I am pretty sure that Anderson will not allow Harry Homeowner to install their windows, including their replacement windows. So instead of $2k it become $10k-$15k. Also American Craftsman have a better warranty than Anderson.
Pella is every bit as good or better than Anderson and you can do those yourself.
Pella windows are junk, these days. I would never install Pella windows in my home and I strongly advise against it for potential customers.
Andersen will allow anyone to install their windows, but they must be installed properly for the warranty to be honored...just like any other company out there. Most homeowners should not be installing their own windows anyway...if they want them installed properly.
One of the major problems with an all vinyl window is that the vinyl becomes brittle over time...from the sun. Another problem is how much they move (expand and contract) with temperature changes. Andersen makes the best window on the market, hands down.0 -
If money is a concern, and you are not planning on living there forever, I would also suggest replacement windows (sash packs), instead of new windows...PROVIDED your exterior trim work does not have any rot. It is a fairly easy job as long as the existing window openings are square. If you have any openings that are way out of square, you will have trouble setting the new window and getting it to seal properly. Sash packs are easy to install if you have good, sound windows frames in place now. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by slipgate
This is what I got http://www.americancraftsmanwin.com/index.cfm the 8500 series. The most expensive window was $166 and that was like 5ft by 3ft. The cheapest was $65 for the basement ones. I am not sure they have wood, I got vinyl.
Also I am pretty sure that Anderson will not allow Harry Homeowner to install their windows, including their replacement windows. So instead of $2k it become $10k-$15k. Also American Craftsman have a better warranty than Anderson.
Pella is every bit as good or better than Anderson and you can do those yourself.
BTW...Andersen does not make a replacement window...nor do they custom size anything other than transoms.0 -
I used to work for a company the makes wearther stripping and gaskets for many window companies Vinyl windows have no insulation value,the double pane glass does but not the frame or sash.Anderson windows are no better than any other window,just have a bigger name.Having worked with many windows I would rate Malta and Marvin both way above an Anderson.In regards to vinyl replacement widows I would not put them in a dog house. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by brier-49
I used to work for a company the makes wearther stripping and gaskets for many window companies Vinyl windows have no insulation value,the double pane glass does but not the frame or sash.Anderson windows are no better than any other window,just have a bigger name.Having worked with many windows I would rate Malta and Marvin both way above an Anderson.In regards to vinyl replacement widows I would not put them in a dog house.
As someone who works with all kinds of windows all the time, I strongly disagree...and I work with them in real world applications. Andersen does not make an all vinyl window, so you cannot compare them to one. Marvin makes a good window, but I prefer Andersen over them.
Here's a problem that replacement windows (sash packs) do not address. Most of the time, you get quite a bit of air leakage around the perimeter of the window fram itself (between the window frame and the framed opening of the house). This is due to improper installation and a poor insulation job. When you install replacement windows, this problem does not get addressed, as all the trim and woodwork remains in tack. They will definitely help with energy efficiency, but they will not provide the same effect as installing a new quality window.
As for vinyl windows not having any insulation value other than the glass itself, this is incorrect. The air space between the vinyl provides insulation factor. It traps a layer of warmer air in between the inside air temps and the outside air temps...Just like the double pane glass panels do. Vinyl replacement window sashes are hollow.0 -
quote:Originally posted by ECC
quote:Originally posted by brier-49
I used to work for a company the makes wearther stripping and gaskets for many window companies Vinyl windows have no insulation value,the double pane glass does but not the frame or sash.Anderson windows are no better than any other window,just have a bigger name.Having worked with many windows I would rate Malta and Marvin both way above an Anderson.In regards to vinyl replacement widows I would not put them in a dog house.
As someone who works with all kinds of windows all the time, I strongly disagree...and I work with them in real world applications. Andersen does not make an all vinyl window, so you cannot compare them to one. Marvin makes a good window, but I prefer Andersen over them.
Here's a problem that replacement windows (sash packs) do not address. Most of the time, you get quite a bit of air leakage around the perimeter of the window fram itself (between the window frame and the framed opening of the house). This is due to improper installation and a poor insulation job. When you install replacement windows, this problem does not get addressed, as all the trim and woodwork remains in tack. They will definitely help with energy efficiency, but they will not provide the same effect as installing a new quality window.
As for vinyl windows not having any insulation value other than the glass itself, this is incorrect. The air space between the vinyl provides insulation factor. It traps a layer of warmer air in between the inside air temps and the outside air temps...Just like the double pane glass panels do. Vinyl replacement window sashes are hollow.
I'm pretty sure you are wrong about Anderson - they have their "Renewel by Anderson" which is a replacement window. I am pretty sure this is what you are calling a "sash pack"? I called Anderson several times and they said they will not sell the "Renewels" directly to the public. I think this is because anyone with the IQ of a retarded clam could install them. They don't want the work to get out.
I doubt most homeowners would install an entirely new window when they are upgrading. This requires extensive work to do, removal of siding, removal of all trim. I'm not sure how you would do it on brick - probably have to cut the flashing nail strip. This would require a professional and cost quite a bit more than dong it yourself. $20k as apposed to $2k?
I admit I do not know much the difference between window brands. They all appear to be built about the same - Anderson, Pella, American Craftsman. American Craftsman has an unlimited lifetime warranty against all failures. I'm sure the others are similar. What makes Pella any worse? A friend of mine is a Pella dealer and he says they are the best.
Also I disagree with the air leakage, my windows are sealed very well and do not leak a bit. They are sealed where the window hits the inside frame of the house and also on the outside. They are custom cut to the exact dimensions you give them for the window so there is no more than a 1/8-1/4 in gap when they are put in. Trim and caulk seal that very well.0 -
quote:Originally posted by slipgate
quote:Originally posted by ECC
quote:Originally posted by brier-49
I used to work for a company the makes wearther stripping and gaskets for many window companies Vinyl windows have no insulation value,the double pane glass does but not the frame or sash.Anderson windows are no better than any other window,just have a bigger name.Having worked with many windows I would rate Malta and Marvin both way above an Anderson.In regards to vinyl replacement widows I would not put them in a dog house.
As someone who works with all kinds of windows all the time, I strongly disagree...and I work with them in real world applications. Andersen does not make an all vinyl window, so you cannot compare them to one. Marvin makes a good window, but I prefer Andersen over them.
Here's a problem that replacement windows (sash packs) do not address. Most of the time, you get quite a bit of air leakage around the perimeter of the window fram itself (between the window frame and the framed opening of the house). This is due to improper installation and a poor insulation job. When you install replacement windows, this problem does not get addressed, as all the trim and woodwork remains in tack. They will definitely help with energy efficiency, but they will not provide the same effect as installing a new quality window.
As for vinyl windows not having any insulation value other than the glass itself, this is incorrect. The air space between the vinyl provides insulation factor. It traps a layer of warmer air in between the inside air temps and the outside air temps...Just like the double pane glass panels do. Vinyl replacement window sashes are hollow.
I'm pretty sure you are wrong about Anderson - they have their "Renewel by Anderson" which is a replacement window. I am pretty sure this is what you are calling a "sash pack"? I called Anderson several times and they said they will not sell the "Renewels" directly to the public. I think this is because anyone with the IQ of a retarded clam could install them. They don't want the work to get out.
I doubt most homeowners would install an entirely new window when they are upgrading. This requires extensive work to do, removal of siding, removal of all trim. I'm not sure how you would do it on brick - probably have to cut the flashing nail strip. This would require a professional and cost quite a bit more than dong it yourself. $20k as apposed to $2k?
I admit I do not know much the difference between window brands. They all appear to be built about the same - Anderson, Pella, American Craftsman. American Craftsman has an unlimited lifetime warranty against all failures. I'm sure the others are similar. What makes Pella any worse? A friend of mine is a Pella dealer and he says they are the best.
Also I disagree with the air leakage, my windows are sealed very well and do not leak a bit. They are sealed where the window hits the inside frame of the house and also on the outside. They are custom cut to the exact dimensions you give them for the window so there is no more than a 1/8-1/4 in gap when they are put in. Trim and caulk seal that very well.
Slipgate...I'm reffering the the area behind your trim. Think of your window as a rectangular box with a frame all the way around it. This frame sits inside a larger wood framed opening. There is a space all the way around the window frame. In many instances, this space is not insulated, or is insulated very poorly during installation. The only thing keeping air from coming in (in between the window frame and the framed wall of the house) is the exterior and interior trim, in many instances. Replacement windows sit INSIDE your existing window frame...and the problem I've outlined does not get addressed.
I would have to show you the difference between these windows, side by side...so that you could see what I'm talking about. It would be too hard to try to explain it without showing you the problems.
....and unless it is a brand new product released in the last month or so, Andersen does not offer a replacement window. Anderesen has, however, bought out many many many other manufacuturers and still produces products under the original manufacturer's name...all while making improvements to the original products. Therma-Tru doors is one example of this...along with most storm doors on the market.0 -
ahh - yes you are pretty much at the mercy of the original home builder at that point. My house is very poorly insulated. 0 -
I should further clarify...Andersen is producing some new products through some of the companies they have bought out, and they are putting their name on some of them...but this is only for the the big box stores, such as Home Depot. They are not however, a genuine Andersen original product...as they are still produced by the companies that they bought out. There is the possibility that they are making a replacement window through one of their newly aquired companies...If you are ever in Home Depot, take a look at storm doors. You will see quite a few Andersen doors...these are actually manufactured by the companies that Andersen has bought out... 0 -
quote:Originally posted by sig232
Darn, I thought you had to remove the siding on the house around the window to tack the paper in out say 8" or so. That would make it a much bigger job!
Not with "replacements". You simply gut your old window and use it's frame as the new opening. A few shims and some caulk and your good to go.0 -
quote:Originally posted by ssmag
Anyone know anything about the quality of "windows USA", vinyl windows. Dealer said they are the most energy efficient window made. I was impressed with the demo he had. Just wandering if anyone has them in their house.
Is this one of those door to door sales pitches? One of my neighbors had his done by them and 4 of the 7 installed have condensation problems between the "3" panes and on the inside.he told me he paid around $775 a window[:(]0 -
quote:Originally posted by trc313
quote:Originally posted by ssmag
Anyone know anything about the quality of "windows USA", vinyl windows. Dealer said they are the most energy efficient window made. I was impressed with the demo he had. Just wandering if anyone has them in their house.
Is this one of those door to door sales pitches? One of my neighbors had his done by them and 4 of the 7 installed have condensation problems between the "3" panes and on the inside.he told me he paid around $775 a window[:(]
Not a sales pitch from me, i'm just looking at replacing the windows in my house. The windows from the above company has a lifetime warranty, "in writing" even if I break them, U value is good & solar heat gain not bad, but price is extremely high. I was just wondering if anyone had any like them in their house. Company has been in business for forty years.0 -
windows is what I do for a living,I am the factory rep for a window manufacturing company covering several states,Windows USA is not a bad copany but they are a little on the high side,with them you are buying the warrenty and later service if needed as much as you are buying the windows,Most good high end vinyl windows with LoE argon should cost you under $200 if you install them yourself,easy to do,,,are replacing wood or aluminum windows???if its wood you can do it about 20 minutes each.If this is a house you only intend to live in a few more years look at a company named Window World "national chain" they have replacements starting a $199 installed anysize with lifetime glassbreakage warrenty,little more to upgrade with LoE ,, they are good windows for the price,over the past 20 yrs I have worked with/for several window companies including Simonton,Ellison,Atrium,Pella and Anderson,,,,sorry but Anderson has made replacements for at least 15yrs and they are true Anderson windows,they have a couple lines of replacements the series 400 being the main one,,,the main problem with Pella and Anderson is your buying a name more than a quality product,,but Anderson does make the best sliding "they call it gliding" patio door in the business 0
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