I need to replace 4 large windows in our great room and dining area. Current windows are single pane aluminum windows that are a significant energy cost. Two windows are 95×48 with a 95×24 slider mulled to the bottom half. The other two monsters are 119×48 with a 119×24 slider mulled to the bottom. I want to replace existing rather than reduce the opening sizes as they are view windows overlooking large outdoor areas.
I started by pricing vinyl replacements as the baseline. I was not crazy about the size of the frame on the interior as these are view windows overlooking vineyards. Next, I looked at Replacement By Anderson (Fibrex frames). The Fibrex offers a smaller frame size with wood veneer options on the interior. I was BLOWN AWAY by the cost! Over 3x the cost of vinyl….is this true? Further, the Anderson guy told me that vinyl windows of the size I’m looking to replace are virtually guaranteed to fail due to the size of the glass space, and the thermal properties of vinyl frames.
All the windows I’ve looked at so far (vinyl and fibrex are 20/10 warrenties) so I’m assuming I making an apples to apples comparision.
My questions are…is this Fibrex material truly 3x the cost of a comparable warrenty vinyl window?
Can someone comment on the risks of vinyl window failure for large windows?
Is there other more economic alternatives that are not 3x the cost of the Vinyl frames?
At the end of the day, I’ll pay the premium price if the vinyl will truly fail in this configuration. At this point, I need more information to figure out what kind of budget I need before it gets cold again.
Any insight would be appreciated !!
Replies
try fibertec windows in Canada or Accurate-Dorwin windows also in Canada...they are fiberglass frames and are very high quality and will be much cheaper than Andersen windows..
http://forums.taunton.com/tp-breaktime/messages?msg=79743.1
All my windows were the old wood single pane. I replaced them with vinyl. Easy to install, look good to me, way better than what I had. The largest I replaced was a 4.0x6.0. This one due to size had to be tempered glass as opposed to the smaller 2.8X4.4's. I will add that large window with tempered glass was heavy. The window company I utilized ordered them for me custom made for the sizes of the openings I needed. Also gave me different options of style. I left the large windows plain without the option to open, as you, didn't want to retract from the view. Was cheaper this way also. You can even order them without that colonial single pane look that they place between the dual pane glass. Can't remember the name of it, Munions? I don't know. All I did was cut off the vinyl flanges and screwed them inplace of the original wood sash windows. I haven't had any problems of warpage or glass breakage.........until I added window film! As far as the interior or exterior trim, I didn't have to mess with them. Left as is.
Semper Fi
Edited 10/8/2006 1:17 pm ET by Jarhead