Windows discussions and local services.
donald_smith
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RE: Which window brand let you down more: Pella or Andersen?
I get where you’re coming from - install quality is huge - but I wouldn’t write off the window itself entirely. I’ve seen some budget units with poor weatherstripping or warped frames that even the best installer can’t f...
RE: How I spotted a shady window installer (and what tipped me off)
That’s the right mindset. People underestimate how much difference proper flashing makes, especially in climates where freeze/thaw cycles are brutal. I’ve seen “premium” caulk fail within a season, but well-installed fla...
RE: Struggling to pick windows that don’t make my ranch look dated
I get what you mean about the “hospital-y” look - some of those budget options really do have that cold, sterile finish. When I tackled my place, I phased it out like you. Started with the most visible windows, then grad...
RE: How I spotted a shady window installer (and what tipped me off)
That’s spot on about the inserts - sometimes you just hit a point where patching and weatherstripping becomes a never-ending chore, especially with older frames that aren’t close to square anymore. I’ve found the “worst ...
RE: Would you take out a loan just to get new windows?
I’ve noticed the same thing. Those energy savings projections tend to be on the optimistic side. In my case, I replaced a mix of original 1960s wood frames and a few aluminum sliders - definitely past their prime. My uti...
RE: ANYONE GETTING MONEY BACK FOR NEW WINDOWS?
I get where you’re coming from - the paperwork is a pain, no doubt. But in my experience, the long-term energy savings really do start to add up, especially if your old windows were drafty. I ran the numbers for my place...
RE: Got a refund for new windows - totally worth it
Funny you mention the paperwork - I swear half my energy upgrade projects have been just me digging through old receipts and warranty docs. But yeah, that refund does soften the blow. I was honestly skeptical at first ab...
RE: Why is taking out old windows such a pain?
I totally get where you're coming from. I’ve done a fair share of window removals in houses from the 1920s and 30s, and sometimes it feels like the original builders never intended anyone to take them out. I’ve found tha...
RE: WHAT MADE YOUR WINDOW QUOTE JUMP? MATERIALS VS. INSTALLATION
WHAT MADE YOUR WINDOW QUOTE JUMP? MATERIALS VS. INSTALLATION I get why you’d want to break down the quote - some of those line items can look like fluff at first glance. Still, I wouldn’t say pro install is always the o...