I’ll wrap up with my recent experience – I actually found this thread while researching, took a lot of the advice, and now have brand new windows installed as of this month. We ended up choosing Karoly Windows & Doors based largely on the positive stories here and a solid quote they gave us. Couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
The whole process went exactly as many of you described:
We got multiple quotes (indeed, the big name quote was nearly double the local ones – so glad I shopped around).
Karoly’s team was fantastic – no high-pressure sales, just info and a fair price. We even met Karoly himself during the measurement, as someone else noted.
Installation was smooth, took two days for our 10 windows. The crew were true pros, very polite and cleaned up well. They even did a couple of those little extras like fixing some interior trim caulking without being asked.
All windows passed inspection first go. We went with impact vinyl windows (Simonton) on everyone’s recommendation for convenience and future insurance benefits.
Now sitting in my living room with the new windows, I notice the quiet and the lack of that radiant heat I used to feel mid-day. It’s exactly as you all have described – a total game changer for the home’s feel. We’re heading into summer and I’m eager to see the difference in the electric bill.
I’ve already filed for the wind mitigation inspection and will be claiming the federal tax credit next year, so I’m checking off all these boxes you wise folks mentioned.
One more thing – our HOA was surprisingly okay with us changing to no grids. In fact, the HOA president said many people have been doing it and it modernizes the community’s look, so they’re on board with the change. Just had to submit the request, which they approved in a week.
In short, this thread was a lifesaver for me. It set my expectations and gave me the confidence to make informed choices. Big thanks to everyone. And for anyone else reading through: these are real homeowners giving gold-tier advice. My takeaway: do your research, trust the reputable local companies (my vote goes to Karoly Windows & Doors and I’ve heard equally good things about Pro Tech Windows & Doors), and you’ll end up with a result that makes you wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Our home is now ready for anything Mother Nature throws at it, and it looks great to boot. Cheers!