Replies

1. 
   schazz | May 19, 1999 09:04pm | #1

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   Any ideas on what to look for?

2. 
   Guest_ | May 20, 1999 04:12am | #2

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   Read the information at these links:

   http://www.thermotechwindows.com/guide.htm
   http://www.efficientwindows.org/
   http://www.nwwda.org/supply/
   http://www.askthebuilder.com/cgi-bin/library (choose windows from the pulldown)

   Then:
   1) Decide if you want vinyl, wood or clad windows.
   2) Decide what other features you want.
   3) Get some price quotes.
   4) Decide what you can afford.
   5) Do some more research.
   6) Spend the money

1. 
   Guest_ | May 20, 1999 05:24am | #3

   *Schazz, there are some reall scam artists out there selling "replacement windows". Here's some things to look out for: 1. A special price if you buy today (a legitimate contractor will give you a price good for 30 days) 2. Financing (banks do financing, contractors do contracting) 3. A trade-in for your old windows (it costs the contractor to get rid of the old windows) 4. A senior citizen's discount (the initial price is raised on the appearance of your age, then discounted to give you a false bargain). Good luck, Steve

3. 
   Wayne_Muck | May 20, 1999 08:09am | #4

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   schazz,

   If you have any questions on the contractor, check him for references, insurance, and bonding. If he gives you references, call them and check them out.
   As far as the windows go. Follow the advice from the gentleman that gave you the web links. You can also access numerous web pages from most of the window manufactures in North America. Do your research and then make an educated decision.

   Good luck with your project.

   Wayne

4. 
   Guest_ | May 23, 1999 04:22am | #5

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   schazz,
   in older homes, its pretty common around here (Pittsburgh, Pa. area) to install vinyl replacement windows. These are normally double insulated thermopanes, and yes you can get them to tilt in for easier cleaning. Depending on what you want, full or half screens, color of vinyl, security lock devices(besides the normal sash lock) can all affect price. Your windows are not very large, and even paying retail should not cost you more than $200 or so. Vinyl windows have to be made to fit your existing window openings and requires a contractor to come out and measure all your windows in advance, so that he can place your order. Windows normally take 2 to 4 weeks to come in from the manufacturer. A good brand of window that I have used successfully is the SIMONTON SERIES, formally referred to as CERTAINEED. Normally, it really doesn't take that long to remove your old window and install the new one, but the installation price can be affected by other factors; such as....will you reuse the existing interior trim, or do you need new, and does the exterior jambs need wrapped with aluminum trim sheet, or will it just be painted? Also height is a factor, are most windows on first floor, or will scaffolding be necessary? These things all affect the final pricing, but rule of thumb, windows replaced in our area run around $350 to $450 per . This includes window, other materials, and labor.
   Anyone wanting more than this for a vinyl replacement window is ripping you off. If you go with a new construction type window (such as an Anderson) then most likely framing alterations would have to be made to your existing window openings in order to install these. Replacement windows avoid this mess. Vinyl windows today are not built like they were say 15 years ago. they are better and I think you would like them. The most important thing is that your installer is someone who is competent and that he takes careful measurements to ensure the windows will fit right.

1. 
   Guest_ | May 24, 1999 04:53am | #6

   *schazz, Davo has given you a fair and objective description of vinyl replacement windows. Some of these windows, however are in a frame which fits into your existing window jamb. These, I personally do not care for ... they're ugly to my eye, and detract from the interior and exterior appearance of the home.An alternative we have not discussed with you is that of installing replacement window sash kits, which include new jamb liners (or balances) and have the desirable tilt feature. This is an economical approach, since all work can be done from inside your house with a minimum of disruption to interior trim. This is a particularly good alternative if your exterior trim and sill are in good shape. These replacement sash kits are available with clad exteriors, low-e glazing, and have excellent weatherstripping. Caradco and Marvin are two manufacturers whose products I like.Let us know how you come out on this...Steve

5. 
   Jim_H. | May 25, 1999 09:29pm | #7

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   I'm planning to build an attached 2-car garage. I have been in contact w/ several homebuilders that give me a rule-of-thumb estimate of 28-32 dollars per sf. THis includes footing, foundation, 2x4 wall constructions, roof, siding, g-door w/ opener, 4" slab floor, buick-grade components.

   Does this seem appropriate? If so, I cannot afford.

6. 
   schazz | May 26, 1999 05:57am | #8

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   Hi! I am a widdow and need to get new windows for my old house. My Husband used to take care of things like this... I would appreciate any advise on what to look for what kind of finish, I would like them to tilt in for easier cleaning. I have 12 windows that measure 27 x 54 I live in Michigan where the winters can be pretty bad. My carpenter said Polar brand out of Min. are pretty good, have you ever heard of that brand? Opinions please on kind and type will be gratefully received And THANKS for any help! Would anyone know a ballpark figure for windows this size and labor?

7. 
   Guest_ | May 26, 1999 05:57am | #9

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   Jim H.

   This price seems on the HIGH SIDE. I would think $18 per sf would be more in the ballpark; of course I'm in the Pittsburgh, Pa. area and don't know where you are from. Also I am assuming that your proposed garage is to be built on a nice level site, is not to be attached to any other buildings, etc. etc. Please note that a good reference book on this subject is EXTERIOR HOME IMPROVEMENT COSTS by R.S. Means Company (you can find this at any Lowes or Home Depot store). They list the cost for a 22x22 garage at $25 per sf.; but again it really matters what region you live in. This book has tables in the back that will help you adjust these prices to your region.
   Jim, Good Luck,

   DAVO