Want to Know If We Got a Good Deal or Not for New Windows?

I would say to take in to consideration how old the house is and how much the heating bill is and think about weighing the cost to see if it is really worth it. If it is an older house (more than 20yrs) and it would help reduce heating cost and pay for itself in a few year, then it probably a good idea. If the house isn't old (less than 10yrs) and it wont pay for is self, then I wouldn't. Also get a second opinion from another company and check with the BBB before you do anything.

We just replaced all the windows in our home and yes, those sales men sure do make some lengthy pitches. We looked at vinyl windows, but ultimately eliminated that from our options after doing some research and finding that the frames of the windows are made from PCV which is okay when unexposed, but toxic when it breaks down. Obviously, windows are exposed to prolonged sun and weather that would cause them to break down. I would encourage you to really look carefuly at the vinyl option as I worry that it is a poor choice in the long run.

K.

Hi B.,
we replaced about 16 windows at our rental property this summer. We ordered the windows from Home Depot and didn't order labour, since my husband did everything by himself. So the price just for windows was about $2800. I must say, the quality is not the best. Our neighbours replaced their windows (I don't know how many exactly, probably about 10) and they paid $7000 for everything including labour. My friends replaced their windows 4 years ago for $8000 (in a big new house, I don't remember how many windows).
So, to me it looks like a good deal. But I would go to someone else, try 3 more companies and you will know better. Home Depot will give you an estimate while you wait. I think 3 days is enough for getting more extimates. Don't forget to check the Better Busines Bureau or get some refferences for the company you picked. And, please, read what's in the contract and don't pay everything before hand, if you want to have the job done.
Good luck,
J.

We have friends in the business who told us to budget about 110 a window. My husband was going to install. That was about 1 1/2 years ago. Remember is generally customary to hold back 20% of the payment until you are satisfied.

It all depends on how many windows you ordered and what size they are. What is the brand and what other brands of windows did you get quotes for? I just did a huge renovation and purchased 36 windows ranging in size for $23,000. And, to boot, I am not thrilled with the quality of the windows. They are Quaker windows the Brighton series, double hung. Even so, the energy efficiency is greatly improved and it is well worth doing.

Cancel now!!! Vinyl is the worst possible material you can have in a window. But it's also the cheapest and that's why so many people have them. They're also used by most new-home builders, which should tell you how low-quality they are. We're shopping for replacement windows right now too and I've done extensive research. You basically want fiberglass or some type of composite, but definitely not vinyl or, heaven forbid, aluminum.

The best quality windows, according to Consumer Reports, are Marvin, Pella, and Anderson (in order of lowest to highest cost). Marvin windows are fiberglass and were ranked highest overrall by CS. Pella's and Anderson's are composite (the best of the best). Marvin's are the most energy-efficient and Pella's and Anderson's are the prettiest.

Feel free to email me if you want more info or have more questions. I have a fancy Excel spreadsheet with bids, warranty info, and all the criteria laid out. I'd be glad to share it with you.

Steph
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