We are looking at a small addition and remodel of our house. My questions concern the windows and patio door. We have used Pella in the past on another house but they are quite high on price. What other brands of quality windows are available that might be less expensive? Our present windows are dual pane but are of the lowest quality from the lumber yard. The condensation (even in this desert climate) is very bad.
We will be installing about three new windows and a new front door in new walls and will be replacing 9 existing windows and a patio door. The existing windows have a flange which is nailed to the framework. The wall is then blocked over using a decorative slump block. I would like to avoid having to rip out block to remove/install windows. Does anyone have advice concerning techniques and materials to do this? Thanks.
Replies
"The existing windows have a flange that is nailed to the framework"
This is a "new construction" type window. I know this will sound dumb, but to replace the existing window, ask for a "replacement window." These type don't have exterior nailing flanges. Most are installed by running screws through pre-punched holes in the window frame, on into the side and head jambs. You can buy replacement windows in a variety of materials; ranging from solid vinyl, to aluminum clad, and even solid wood.
Ask your local lumberyard for window and door literature.
For patio doors.....Peachtree makes a nice one.
For wood or aluminum clad windows...Carradco, Anderson, Marvin, Traco
For solid vinyl replacement windows...Simonton, PPG
LOL.
Davo
Davo,
Thank you for that info, especially about the "replacement" windows. That will really simplify the process. I was not aware of some of the window companies you mentioned and will check those out.
Mike
Anderson sliders are very nice...the knock down frames go together great....nice and strong...and the doors slide and lock very easily. Jeff.......Sometimes on the toll road of life.....a handful of change is good.......
Are these double hung? At what point are they poor? The sashes or the frames. What brand?
Let's suppose they are Andersons that you have. Supposing only for example.... that the builder chose their bottom of the line units then you want to get Anderson replacement kits in a higher grade. So you want to see if you can find the brand and upgrade within that brand - the job will be easier. But there are some brands and frames that are just not worth touching and would require a major job to replace frames too.
Marvin was first to come out with a double hung retrofit kit for older style windows. I think that Weathershield will custom size such infits. Pella can do the job but they are not my favorite when it comes to quality. Pella has three or four different lines too.
Piffin,
I don't think the quality of these even approaches the bottom of the line for the brands you named. These are simple aluminum units and were probably bought from a McCoy's or similar hardware store. There is no brand name showing. We have two types. Some slide horizontally and some are just fixed units. I would be surprized if any of our window units even cost $100. They leak dirt like a sieve. I put in some of similar quality in my metal building shop/office and paid about $59 each if I remember correctly. Thanks for the info.
Mike