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We plan on putting an addition on the back of our house with some large windows (4 -5′ wide and 5-6′ high). They’ll face East and South. Our climate is cold and dry in the winter and warm and humid in the summer. What should I look for in windows? I was thinking about buying surplus/used windows but I what should I look for to determine if they are defective?
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If your design is flexible, you can get screaming deals on perfect, new windows at auctions where they sell overstock, and from manufacturers who make mistakes or whose buyer backs out. I'm a real scrounge, but i would be wary of installing windows someone else removed, except maybe for an outbuilding. Also, if the glass is cloudy bet panes, the rubber seal is shot.
Another option to save money is to buy replacement patio door panels in standard sizes and set them into your framework. I bought a replacement panel for my sliding door and it was only $79, much cheaper than having my local glass shop fabricate one. A friend of mine used full-glazed, steel/foam-core door blanks (undrilled) for her south wall--looks nice.
*Go talk with xJohn and his $20,000 window mistake. Might be some good deals there.
*b Another Homeowner. One day we will rule the world.Yes T Bender, there is a santa claus. and he can be found at the surplus auction as splintergroupie recommended. But beware, bring your truck and tow your trailer cause you'll probably buy out the place if it's your first time and spoil you from ever paying retail again. I went to one and bought a bunch of 3'x4' to 4'x6' vinyl thermopane new from 10 to 20 dollars each and one 5'x8' for 30 dollars. Then I realized I had to cart 'em home with the lumber and all the other stuff I bought. You shoulda seen the truck. It looked like a shot from 'the Grapes of Wrath'. A southern sun room is in my plans also. I considered the patio doors until I went to the auction. It would be well worth your while to locate one and go adventuring.