Kensington "Hunter Plus" Replacement Windows
#1
10-03-08, 12:34 PM
Kensington "Hunter Plus" Replacement Windows
Hi Everyone,
I am looking into replacing the windows on my house with Kensington - Hunter Plus windows. Does any know much about their quality. They are a two pain, low E, argon filled window with insulation in the frame.
I've been quoted roughly $13,000 for 26 double hung windows installed. Does $500 sound about right for this type of window. As an FYI, I am in northern NJ (right outside of NYC).
I'm not afraid of doing the install myself, does anyone know where I can purchase other than via the installer.
Thanks
Greg
I am looking into replacing the windows on my house with Kensington - Hunter Plus windows. Does any know much about their quality. They are a two pain, low E, argon filled window with insulation in the frame.
I've been quoted roughly $13,000 for 26 double hung windows installed. Does $500 sound about right for this type of window. As an FYI, I am in northern NJ (right outside of NYC).
I'm not afraid of doing the install myself, does anyone know where I can purchase other than via the installer.
Thanks
Greg
#3
10-07-08, 04:30 PM
Instead of replacements
There are many advantages to new construction windows over replacements. Some replacement window companies are reputable. I am sure there are some that aren't. Replacement are generally a "window within a window" which might lessen your glass or rely on caulk to hold them in.
Paying one company for both product and labor doesn't give you many options. First, go to several lumber companies and ask to look at windows. Don't just look at the recognizable name as there are many good companies that don't advertize on TV.
You could also go to a box store and they do have people who know windows, but it's also possible that somebody from the garden center is filling in because they don't have enough staff.
The point is to educate yourself. Try to focus on the windows even though part of selling is how well you like the salesman. Someone that not tells you what is good about his product and then shows you what it means with a cut away. It is not rocket science and after a few pitches, you may even know what questions to ask.
Vinyl or Aluminum clad wood? This depends on a lot of things. Color is one. If you want something other than white or beige on the outside, you've eliminated most vinyls. There are a few exceptions made in Canada which are excellent products and come in any color you want, but be prepared to pay more than for wood. On the other hand, if you want to stain the interior of the window, you can eliminate vinyl.
Once you decide on what product you want to use, ask the salesman for the names of three remodelers. You may want to do this at a lumber yard and ask for someone who has a good long reputation. Installation is just as important as the product. Have them come out and check/measure your current windows and ask for an estimate for the job of installing the windows you choose. Make him be responsible for the sizes and any code requirements.
Hint: buy the windows and labor from the remodeler. He will pay less than you because of his discount. This gives him a little more wiggle room to negotiate as opposed to your buying them.
Paying one company for both product and labor doesn't give you many options. First, go to several lumber companies and ask to look at windows. Don't just look at the recognizable name as there are many good companies that don't advertize on TV.
You could also go to a box store and they do have people who know windows, but it's also possible that somebody from the garden center is filling in because they don't have enough staff.
The point is to educate yourself. Try to focus on the windows even though part of selling is how well you like the salesman. Someone that not tells you what is good about his product and then shows you what it means with a cut away. It is not rocket science and after a few pitches, you may even know what questions to ask.
Vinyl or Aluminum clad wood? This depends on a lot of things. Color is one. If you want something other than white or beige on the outside, you've eliminated most vinyls. There are a few exceptions made in Canada which are excellent products and come in any color you want, but be prepared to pay more than for wood. On the other hand, if you want to stain the interior of the window, you can eliminate vinyl.
Once you decide on what product you want to use, ask the salesman for the names of three remodelers. You may want to do this at a lumber yard and ask for someone who has a good long reputation. Installation is just as important as the product. Have them come out and check/measure your current windows and ask for an estimate for the job of installing the windows you choose. Make him be responsible for the sizes and any code requirements.
Hint: buy the windows and labor from the remodeler. He will pay less than you because of his discount. This gives him a little more wiggle room to negotiate as opposed to your buying them.
