Simonton vs. Andersen windows - worth the extra cash?

I’ll admit, I actually noticed a pretty big drop in street noise after putting in Andersen windows - could be the triple pane, or maybe just my old house was that bad to begin with. Simonton’s not bad, but the hardware on mine started sticking after a couple years. Maybe I’m just rough on things, but it made me rethink going for the “cheaper” option next time. Sometimes that extra cash is more than just a fancy logo...

- Noticed the same thing with street noise - triple pane is like magic, honestly.
- Energy bills dipped a bit too, which was a surprise win.
- Simonton’s price tag was tempting, but I kept hearing about hardware issues. Maybe it’s not just you?
- Always wonder if the “fancy” brands are worth it, but when my neighbor’s cheap windows fogged up after two winters... yeah, kind of glad I spent more.
- Still, that upfront cost stings. Wish there was a perfect middle ground.

Yeah, I’ve heard mixed stuff about Simonton’s locks and handles too. I went with Andersen last summer - pricey, but honestly, no regrets so far. The hardware feels solid, and the noise drop was wild. I do wonder if it’s overkill for milder climates, though. Anyone try something in-between price-wise that actually holds up? Just seems like it’s either budget or splurge, nothing in the middle.

Just seems like it’s either budget or splurge, nothing in the middle.

I felt the same way when I started shopping around. I ended up with Milgard, which felt like a middle ground - price was less than Andersen, but not bargain-bin either. Hardware’s been decent so far (2 years in), and the install was way smoother than I’d expected. Only thing is, I do notice a bit more outside noise than my friend’s Andersens. Not sure if that’s down to install or just the window itself. Anyone else run into that?

That outside noise thing can be a mix of factors. Milgards aren’t bad, but glass thickness and air gaps make a difference - Andersen usually uses beefier glass or offers options for that. Sometimes it’s the install, sure, but I’ve seen even perfect installs where the window itself just isn’t as insulated. If you’re right on a busy street, you might notice it more. I’ve had folks add storm windows after the fact just for that reason... not glamorous, but it works.

I’ve always wondered if storm windows are the unsung heroes of street noise. Andersen’s extra glass is nice, but honestly, I’ve had Simontons with laminated glass that did a decent job too - just not as thick. Ever try those window inserts? They look weird but actually helped my old place on a busy road.