Wanting to replace old windows... a few questions

First, the entire house needs to have its windows replaced as the current ones are over 35 years old, simple aluminum frame single pane and offer no real protection against air infiltration. I strongly suspect (based on my IR thermometer readings) that they are the primary reason my heating and cooling bills are so high.

Anyway, so I'm starting to look into replacing all of the windows in the house. But before I replace all of them, I am planning on bidding out 3 windows on the second story and after selecting the company/contractor and am satisfied with their work, I'll use them again for the rest of the project.

I originally had in mind that I'd go straight with Pella, but I knew the price would be high for them. I even visited a Pella store today and spoke with one of the guys there about what all they offer. I was surprised to learn that Pella only offered wood frames for the windows I wanted (mainly impact resistant, triple pane). I definitely want vinyl. Pella does have their Impervia fiberglass product, but no doubt it is probably much more expensive than I want plus I have not seen enough of them installed anywhere to form a basis on whether or not fiberglass is worth the trouble.

Another thing that turned me off when speaking with the guy at the Pella store was that he simply "doesn't do" triple pane installs. WTF? Why do you even offer the designer series line that specifically indicates a triple pane product?


So, the short of it is that I don't think I'll be going with Pella after all. I was hoping some people could suggest for me a GOOD...no, make that GREAT window manufacturer that offers a top product with a vinyl frame and preferably triple pane glass. I can go with double pane if I have to, but would really prefer triple.

Also, when it comes to spacers, I know spacers are what primarily cause windows to fail. Well that and wood rot, but I don't want wood. What should I look for and what questions should I ask about the spacers?

 

I put Window World windows in My house. I believe they are a great window. I may be a little biased to them for I do work for them as a window specialist. I know quite a bit about windows. It sounds like you have a glorified storm window protecting you from the elements. Do go with vinyl. Not knowing where you are in this great country, triple panes may be to much for you (you'd just be buying bragging rights) or just right for where your at. The windows I put in my house (White vinyl double hungs with low E and argon gas) are far superior than some triple panes, well those without low E or argon gas. Honestly it's all about the glass features, Choose a thermal pane with low E and argon or krypton gas. do not purchase a window that is not virgin vinyl for it will yellow over time. Also, don't purchase a window that is screwed together (mechanically welded) think about it over time expansion and contraction with heat and cold (as all thing do wood, vinyl, metal, women!!) That mechanically welded windows seams will eventually allow air to pass because the gap will get bigger. I've seen it to many times from a company up here (Wisconsin) And it happens just after the warranty runs out. Do pay close attention to warranties it should include an all inclusive window warranty for parts and materials, and the same for labor. If a company is willing to stand behind not only their product but their workers. I believe it is a great company. My personal opinion would be do you homework and go with one company. Every window company out there will have a different looking window and if you put three different windows in your home I believe it will look tacky. Just my $.02.
My vote is Window World windows. They're great, they're cheap(inexpensive) and most important they're beautiful. Good luck.

 

Hello,
You know you are actually the second person to recommend Window World since I've been asking around online. That's a great start. I did look them up and there is an installer local to me.

I'm in the north TX area btw.

 

Personally, I would never consider Pella. I have had several customers with problems with their Pella windows and Pella would do nothing, not what I call good service. Andersen, on the other hand, has sent me free parts for windows out of warranty. Not familiar wind Window World, but I recommend a company with a long national track record. There are lots of local window companies that claim big warranties and are then gone in 5 yrs. Then that warranty is useless. Not many companies offer triple pane in vinyl, but check Andersen Renewal. But from the description of your windows, It is likely you will not be able to have replacement windows installed. You need a frame for them to fit into.