Replace or restore current windows.. pic included

My friend’s brother in law has been installing windows for a long time. He owns his own window company currently. He was checking out my windows and building up a quote for new Milgard windows when he advised that it might actually be better to just keep the existing windows since they add charm and go with the flow of the house.

Here is a pic of the houseside


I don’t know. The house seems pretty blah from the outside, so I don’t know if it’d be worth stripping each window and refinishing them or just getting brand new windows. A few of the windows have some serious rot (I could always go to a home recycling center and dig around for some similar replacements for the rotted ones).

So I guess would it be worth spending all the money to replace the windows on the house? I know I’d benefit from the energy savings but would I take a hit on the overall appeal of the house? Any experienced home owners got any advice for this first time owner?

 

Well, please don't take this wrong, but the house is a little 50's tract house.....we ain't talking historical register here......the rot is coming from the lack of roof overhang to protect the windows...

I'd replace 'em in a heartbeat before I'd do one lick of painting, wood filling, and glazing putty replacement they probably desperately need.

 

Andy has given GREAT advice. My opinion: If the "home recycling center" in your area is anything like my salvage yard the only windows you'll find there will be as bad as the ones you already own.

 

eod,

FIRST, (if it's not too late!!), let me welcome you to DoItYourself.com.

I see Andy and SalvageCzar didn't cut you any slack!!

I will.

Replace the windows! Don't waste your time at a recycling center. (I have my own opinion about Milgard's, but that's a different thread!!)

A Milgard dealer is suggesting that you stay with your present windows?? WOW!! (Milgard just dropped ANOTHER notch in my book, and now they are at an all-time low!!)

Replacing the windows with a decent vinyl window will eliminate the maintenance. Going with Low-E glass will reduce your energy costs AT LEAST 20% (probably more), and there's a good chance that your local utility co. will help you with the cost of the replacement in the form of a rebate. (If they don't, they are missing a bet!!) Plus, your house will be more comfortable and it will be quieter.

 

Alrighty, replace them it is. In defense of my friend's brother in law I don't know if he deals with milgard or was just able to get me a good deal. I think he recommended that I keep them so I could focus all the money into finishing the basement.

What is a good brand that is fairly priced and decent quality?

 

I'm on my second house of replacing with Milgard. I love them. Had one fail, corner cracked not long after replacement,replaced no charge no questions. Another failed after 5 years, replaced with no questions and no charge. They back them.