Replacement windows from big box store or lumber yard

[caver]

Several windows need to be replaced in my 30-40 year old split foyer prefab home. When Dad and I replaced the siding it was obvious the walls were built in a factory as they still had the webbing lifting straps on the ends under the soffit....anyway...I plan to do the job myself before the mosquitoes open up shop for the summer. I also plan to sell this home in three years or less. I want a window that will look good in three years but there is no sense buying top of the line. They are oddball size openings so I will have to custom order them. Any experience with brand and ordering them from the box store? Or have you gotten better service from local mom and pop lumber yard. The local BBS's (big box store) around here have young kids working so I can see an order getting screwed up.

 

[TnAndy]

Big box stores screw up more special orders than they get right. I've bought pallet loads of windows from Home Depot for $50/ea that were over 200 retail simply because they were mis-measured. Put them in rentals I was building, and simply built the hole to fit the window.

I did replacement windows for a living for many years. Tell me what you have (double hung, slider, etc) (wood, metal) (pics would help) and I'll give you some tips on replacements and buying them.

 

[DuckSlayer1017]

Try Wallside Windows. I'm not sure if they are nation wide or just in MI. However, I know four or five people that used them for replacements and were very impressed with the quality of window and the installation.

 

[PILOON]

While not really box store but a reputable building supplier I have purchased many windows.
First off their prices were generally 35-40% lower than list and oddball sizes merely 10% higher than the closest standard size.
The difference was in delivery, but acceptable at the prices.
Your best $$ deal will probably be vinyl Thermopane sliders and most now include lowE as a standard.

 

[KennyG]

Check the price on midrange Andersen or Pella. If the number of windows isn't too large it might be worth going to a recognized name for resale value.

 

[TnAndy]

The vast majority of people can't tell an Andersen from cheap trailer windows. A sparkling clean, uncluttered house with cookies baking in the oven will provide the best return for your money.

 

[KennyG]

Might be different up here with high heating costs. Most home buyers recognize the names and the real estate agents will hype it to push the sales.

 

[Billrog]

I'd have to go with vinyl sliders as well double pain . I've never bought any from a big box store but plenty from local build supply stores. I wouldn't be spending a pile on windows for an old house.

 

[jtygoku]

Big box stores screw up more special orders than they get right. I've bought pallet loads of windows from Home Depot for $50/ea that were over 200 retail simply because they were mis-measured. Put them in rentals I was building, and simply built the hole to fit the window.

I did replacement windows for a living for many years. Tell me what you have (double hung, slider, etc) (wood, metal) (pics would help) and I'll give you some tips on replacements and buying them.

I'll be following this thread since replacement windows are on my to do list for this year.
Andy, I have 20 year old (original to the house) wood casement windows that a number of them are in some stage of rotting. Any thoughts/tips or directions to a site that would guide me through doing the job myself. Thanks.

 

[milligjg]

I had Window World put mine in. All weird sizes, etc. They did a great job, cleaned up and hauled the old ones off and the price was "extremely" competitive.