Help with windows replacement decision

Parent Cafe
1

<p>Please help with windows replacement decision. There so many companies and windows out there, its so hard to make a decision. The price quoted for the different windows we are considering are within ~$1,000 or each other or ~7% of the cost of the job. These windows include Okna 500, Simonton Platimum, Simonton 5500, Alside Sheffield. After reviewing price quotes, windows performances and warranty, the bottom line comes to the window installer. Who would you pick?</p>

<li> Larger window replacement company in business since 1996. Owner will come to do actual measurement. Large crew can finish job in a day. Appear to be a good installer with busy schedule. Fairy responsive. Found thru advertisement on local paper .<br></li>
<li> Smaller company in business since 2005. One of the partners gave the estimate and will send an employee to do actual estimate. More technical knowledgeable as far as describing windows performance. Job will take 1-2 days. Found thru internet forum who frequently provide feedback on questions with windows replacement.</li>
<li> Smaller home construction and remodeling contractor. In business since 1997. Owner provided the estimate and is not as clear on code requirements and will verify before signing contract. Smaller crew and job will take 2-3 days. Contractor goes to the same church as the neighbor and replaced his windows.</li>
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<p>All have satisfactory rating with Better Business Bureau. Who would you pick? (assume number of days to replace is not a factor)</p>

<p>Thanks</p>

2

<p>First ask yourself whether you really need replacement windows. Window installers and sellers do a good job of talking people into replacement windows, when very often installing GOOD storm windows and some weather-stripping will achieve a comparable result in terms of R-value AND preserve the historical and aesthetic values of the house. Old windows are made of denser, better wood than even the best (Marvin, Andersen, Pella) replacement windows, and will last indefinitely, vs 20-30 years at most for replacement windows.</p>

<p>How old is your house? How old are the windows?</p>