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Hello –
This is my first post, so go easy on me please.
This is for a major DIY project this spring, coming up very soon…
We’re shopping for replacement windows for our mid-1950’s brick ranch which has solid aluminum frame windows that look like double-hungs but the top sash is fixed. Mounted outside are Rusco aluminum storm windows, perhaps of 1960’s vintage made of heavy duty aluminum frame.
The inside is trimmed with wood and walls are plaster on wallboard.
The home seems to have been built to order and many of the windows are of odd dimensions and we’re having a tough time narrowing down our choices.
Solid vinyl windows have been ruled out – ugly and we want wood inside.
(The wood veneer offered on some vinyl windows doesn’t quite look right.)
Also, we would like to preserve as much of the glass area provided by the Jetsons era aluminum windows. This may be asking too much, but we noticed some windows have a thinner frame profile.
So far we’re considering Pella’s Custom Fit line which is available in 1/4″ increments. A rep will be coming by to size things up and offer a quote.
Are there any other choices ou there without paying a high premium for odd sized windows ?
Another name we’ve heard is Norco.
I promise the next post will not be as overwinded.
Thanks,
Alan
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Alan,
You'll get as many opinions on who's best as there are window manufacturers. Know this, some major names manufacture different "lines" (read quality levels). Don't get caught up in the price comparisons unless you know you're comparing apples to apples so to speak. The three most important things you need to be concerned with (my opinion) are service, aesthetics and price. Any mid to upper line window from a major manufacturer will be a good window. A search of the archives might yield more pertinent information about specific brands.
Best Wishes,
EB
*Thanks, Eric.I've come to the realization of things you mention after checking around for several months.Found out only after calling Pella direct that some of their lines are available only direct.Their rep, who will travel about 100 miles each way to visit us, sounded very professional and courteous.We'll see what happens, but I'm looking forward to his visit more so then the other appointment we have from a window store pushing the vinyl stuff.Thanks again.
*Alan,For your information, those are single hung windows you have. A brick house with solid aluminum frame windows with heavy aluminum frame storm windows sounds like a tough replacement window installation. Have you considered hiring a professional? If you have an existing wood jamb to work with, I would recommend Marvin Tilt-pacs. Extruded aluminum exteriors, wood interiors, vinyl jamb liners. If you don't have any wood jambs to work with, maybe a new construction window is what you need. With them, the selection is endless. Don't let price be the ultimate determining factor. Windows are far too important to looks, architectural integrity, energy efficiency, and functionality of your home.Good luck,Red dog
*Alan, be sure to evaluate Kolbe & Kolbe windows. They seem to be a good value, better than Pella.IMHO
*Alan,I use Norco alot. I like them. They do have 2 lines & I think you will find the first line quite acceptable. The only reason to go to the "better" grade is options. The Marvin tilt pacs are a great idea. I've used them quite a bit & they work well. Norco also offers a similar product although I haven't used it yet.