We were unexpectedly catapulted into yet another project in our new house. There are sidelight windows around our front door, 4 12x17.5in on each side. The house is 44yrs old and I would not be surprised if what's in place is original... except for the window that my husband shattered when he "slid" down the un-carpeted steps. The placement of stairs and window isn't good. We want to put tempered glass in all eight. As a temporary bandage, there is plexiglass in the one window now. We learned a few things while removing the broken window. There is exterior molding. I've read that this is a bad idea since it won't hold up to the weather. What we removed was rotten but it was also very old...and sealed by an excessive amount of paint. The front entry is covered, but the region will still experience weather. My first question: What alternatives do we have? Second do we have any options for the glass? I'm having hard enough time finding tempered glass in the size we need. Any energy efficient improvement? And where might I find it? Maybe I'm talking to the wrong professionals. I keep being told that I should replace my whole front door. Moreover, that I should get rid of this solid wood door to replace it with the "much better" fiberglass look-a-likes. All I have is a broken window next to the door! I can quickly spot the differences between all the fiberglass doors I've seen. And my wood door appears in great condition, sealing well, fitting well. I'm new to this, so I will ask again is there any reason besides wood doors are too expensive --I have the door already -- or wood doors require some maintenance -- I wouldn't be on these forums if I were afraid of maintenance. Finally, I am concerned about the possibility of lead. The house was built in 1968. We do not know the history or age of the paint on the windows. What safety measures should we take? Also we have two young children in the home, 27m and 6m; hence even greater concern for lead in the lower layers of paint. Thanks!

It's time to replace my old 1960's windows. Most windows are double hung with a few casements and a few picture frame. OKNA and Alside seem to be popular choices with the contractors in my area. Recommendations would be appreciated along with which vinyl window manufacturers avoid. Thanks -