Replacing single pane aluminum windows
I recently purchased a 1950’s brick cape in Central Ohio and now faced with replacing the thin aluminum casement windows. I am doing this for heating cost and make more effficient windows. I believe my windows are about 36w x 48h, plus one large bay window in front. The inside sills are marble and walls are plaster and metal lathe finish. I would like to go with an aluminum exterior/wood interior style casement; seeing the color options available is nice. I am trying to retain the historic look of the house. Vinyl is something I do not want to entertain. I have catalogs from Loewen & Marvin so far. The current windows have a “fixed” transom at top but I would like to get a window that has an operable transom above the casement. I would am somewhat concerned for price but will pay for quality and best performance for my region climate. I am not sure what route to take or if this is something that I can do myself to replace? Should I buy windows on my own and then have a general contracotr install? Or should I go with a dealer who sells or installs or is this something I can tackle? Suggestions or comments? Appreciated!
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Marvin is a god choice and they can make any sizing you want. Price is not lowest though.
Look at Andersen or Norco too.
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I can't comment on wjhich way to do installation. There are certain windows I will not install. Ther are contractors who will not want to give up their markup on the product itself and may refuse the work if you buy materials, or add tthat fee in another way. Tends to depend on the local market.
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Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
where ...
Excellence is its own reward!
Few contractors will get involved installing materials provided by the customer for lots of reasons (which I can elaborate if you wish). It's good that you are doing research yourself, then you can ask a contractor or two for pricing to install what you want. They may also have recommendations since they see so many. If they recommend something, try to see some with your own eyes before agreeing.
It's fine you don't want all-vinyl windows. They tend to be at the lower end of the quality level. But vinyl clad wood is a high quality construction. Andersens are made that way and are very good windows.
You'll be amazed at how much warmer you'll feel standing next to your new windows, whatever brand you choose, compared to the old single pane aluminum windows.
Don't forget to consider screens if you want them.
Installing windows in your type of construction is not all that easy, but doable if you are a skilled person. You'll have to judge your abilities.
Thanks for advice, I guess I will start the General contractor search since I have the type of window picked out. I will still need to go to dealer to see windows and hope I can take a look at their pricing to see what contractor may charge me. Thanks again.