Replacement windows=money$$$$$$$

[Fishguy]

A few years back we finally got tired of trying to look through crystalized windows. We called several different places for estimates.
What we did is replaced 19 windows. In that, we did away with single hung aluminum frames with the vinyl replacements mentioned before. We decided to install the slider type cause the "boss" wanted the cottage look. Our order included a large bay window and two special order 36"(w)x80"(h) picture windows.

Anderson gave us an estimate of $24,000+ and they hounded us for over a year. Even after we told them we used a different company. We even got "preferred customer" mailings from them. (????)

The company we chose advertises windows for $189 each, installed. We weren't expecting a lot but was surprised with what we got. It took two days for the installation but that was because of the constructuion needed for the special order windows. We did have a problem with a lock on the bay window but they went out of their way to fit it and make it up to us. They gave us (installed) a set of slider doors for all our trouble. Total cost was roughly $8300.

We had full intentions of staying in the house but soon found out that "they" had other plans for the neighborhood, so we sold and moved out. I have since recommended the same place to friends and family, all of whom are happy with their choice.

So I would say to just shop around and keep an open mind. There are a lot of opitions out there and just as many good or horror stories to match.


Steve

 

[randy41]

theres a 10% tax credit for new windows that meet certain requirements. i think the max credit is $200. consult your tax advisor.

Treasury and IRS Provide Guidance for energy Credits for Homeowners

 

[Doc_Bob]

I will post some pics when I get home from work.

Good Luck

I love pics.
Bob

 

[Doc_Bob]

So I would say to just shop around and keep an open mind. There are a lot of opitions out there and just as many good or horror stories to match.
Steve

My goal is to keep my wife's mind open
Bob

 

[Casco1]

Replaced 28 windows in my 90 yr old house. I did 14 this year and 14 last year. I have a friend in the glass business and I bought my windows thru him, he buys thru a manufacturer that makes windows for several major national brands. All made in the same place by the same people but they leave with different labels on them.

I feel this is a job a homeowner should do himself as no contractor will take the time to insulate and caulk the way it should be done to do the job. When I started my wife and I did 4 the first day, the last 4 in one afternoon.
My heating bill dropped about $540 last year with half the windows done + the instillation of a programable thermostat.

The only warning I have is in using the canned foam insulation. Be careful how much you use as it keeps expanding inside the window channels. I couldn't open my bathroom window for a month. I solved the problem by using a bottle jack and a 4+4 to spread the jambs apart and compress the foam, it's still tight but it works.

 

[AL_Josh]

Here are the pictures as promised. I will try to post in order.

First the hole with me framing it up.
Then the window installed.
Then outside trimmed out.
Then Inside trimmed out.
I still have to finish painting inside and out.

Casco1
They now have foam in a can made for windows. I used some. It is supposed to stay pliable and not exspand too much. It comes in a blue can.

 

[rlk]

My wife would like the windows in my 35 yr old ranch replaced. Yes, they are old, but are still in a very good shape. No rotten frames, single pane with outer storms with good glass and screens.

I have started to look at Pella (can you say money?) and next week the Andersen guy come by to give an estimate.

My question is what have you all discovered? Any suggestions? Total tear out and replace or "precision fit" (just removed window, leave frame and woodwork intact).
Bob

Doc, check out MW Sash Replacement Systems: MW Windows
I replaced all of my 30 year old windows with these, and have been pleased with the results. I left my storm windows on, so I have insulated glass with storm windows. I opted for the low e option also.

I selected the wood for the interior and vinyl coated for the exterior.

Installation is easy if you are careful removing the interior trim.

Bob

 

[randy41]

just stay away from MW all vinyl windows....they have a bad reputation.

 

[capt jack]

bob,
The business that pays for my "toys" I mean "TOOLS & EQUIPMENT"away from the fire dept. is exterior home improvement. We do a lot of windows. Windows are a MAJOR factor in heating/cooling bills. Besides heat loss in the winter, you have heat gain in summer months (we in Texas know alot about this). Besides vinyl frames , and insulated glass, demand "low E squared" glass. Like the other post said ,Simonton makes a very good window (plants in ILL. & Okla.) Alside are also very good. The mark up and scams are a problem in this and most other home improvement projects. They don't build those big orange and blue stores cheap. And the guys that will replace "any window for $189" are kin to the "paint any car for $199" guys in what you get for your money. All that said, here is how they are figured and what they cost:Replacement windows are sold by the U I, united inch. Take the width in inches and ADD the height in inchs (a 36"X60" window is 96 united inches).
My cost to buy a good Simonton or Alside window is about $2.25 per united inch. Grids, wood veneer interiors etc. are extra. I pay about $50-$60 labor
per window to my installer. $350 -$400 per window installed is about what you should pay. Jack

 

[schmism]

the problem with replaceing the entire frame (with trim) is that if you have brick or some other sideing that is hard to "patch" and your new windows trim doesnt perfectly fit into the previous opening in the sideing it can be an even more expensive propisition to fix.

as far as precision fit leaving the existing wood frames and trim intact. thats the way i would go if the frames were sound (free of rot/bugs) if not... your only good choice is to replace the whole 9 yards