looking to upgrade my home's windows.
2006-10-26 10:43:15 · 5 answers · asked by petedrob 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Decorating & Remodeling
It all depends on how long you plan to live at your current residence.
If you plan to retire there, then I don't recommend vinyl casings and frames. They have a tendency to warp and degrade over time. Though the vinly type has been through a lot of changes, including stronger reinforcing and better composites, I think by the time you reach retirement, you don't won't be buying new windows again. Therefore, I am a proponent of Andersen because they have the timber style and a style that is a clading over wood. The clading style is very durable and will probably outlast your retirement -- hence increase the value of your home when you move on to better digs or pass on to your progeny.
If you, however, intend to stay at your current house for 5 years or less, I suggest going with just vinyl windows. I am not sure about Milgard or Certainteed, but I think Pella has the market on vinly windows. They are reasonable priced, have a wider selection than Andersens (ie, double-hung, single-hung, casements, fixed, picture, bays, etc.) and will probably hold out until you sell the house at the 5 year mark.
One thing you should consider when buying windows is whether you want single pane, double-pane, or triple-pane. The triple-pane, though better regarding UV and E's, the investment return will not be any different that double-panes. So, I recommend double-pane with either just air filled or gas filled. The gas filled is nice due to it sound control, but will cost you more. The gas is typical an Argon though there are other fillers on the market.
And last but not least is the decision between the traditional double-hung or the less costly single-hung. But, this depends on the style house you have and budget. But, keep in mind, while the cost of the single-hung units may be lower, the installation is about the same (on condition that you are not doing a full replacement down to the rough opening).
And then there is installation. No matter the manufacturer, material, or style -- it all boils down to installation. If the installation is bad, then you have bad windows.
If your budget can maintain it, then I recommend using an installer certified by the manufacturer. However, if your budget is tight (like most of us), then buy the windows separate and search for the best priced and reputable installer. You may have to watch them like children, but may be worth the trouble.
Hope this is helpful.
2006-10-28 12:54:31 · answer #1 · answered by ch 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Anderson Vs Pella Windows
2016-10-21 12:31:48 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Anderson is a good one of the ones you have mentioned. I would be careful of the companies that send someone out to your house. I use to work for a couple of those and the windows will end up costing you far more than they should. The salesmen will try to get more than the base price because it makes their commission more. Most people don't know that they can dicker, and can get it 30% or more less if it means a sale or not. The saleman will always have some reason why you have to buy tonight, but you can beat them at their own game. And some of those companies have good windows and some don't. And some have good installers and some don't. Ask around for the name of a good carpenter that knows how to do it and is licensed and get a good window from a local store.
2006-10-26 11:39:50 · answer #3 · answered by tonks_op 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
as a contractor i prefer anderson, i like the way they are clad better than the others and they seem to fit better on installation.
2006-10-26 11:07:01 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pella. by far
2006-10-26 11:01:17 · answer #5 · answered by allthrottlenobottle2000 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋