Windows Replacement

11/23/2011 at 1:52:19 PM

Hi Pablo:

There is no doubt that vinyl is the best option. They do not sweat like other windows, are available in a variety of styles and finishes, and are a lot more cost effective in terms of wooden windows. Also, there is virtually no maintenance with them.

As for the brand, all are very competative as far as the units themselves. The difference is in the construction of the frames. Some lines of windows, such as Pella are very good, but very costly. Go to a bonafide window shop and discuss yor budget and size needs with a recommended professional. They will have the best advice for your situation. They will also have QUALIFIED installers for the products that you choose.

Also, check with Manitoba Hydro to see if they have any replacement programs in place. However, check out their rebate program (if available) and compare the pricing to a recommended shop. You might be surprised that their program is not as good as it may seem.

Chuck

Meadowood Homes

Qualicum Beach, B.C.

11/24/2011 at 10:58:15 AM

Pablo,

I agree that the choices can seem stagaring. One things for sure though...any window can fail if its not installed properly. If your hiring a window professional for the install ask questions and find someone that comes recomended for thier quality. (A good place to start is the local hardware or building supply that you deal with). They will want to recomend an installer with a good track record. Once you find the installer that you want to work with, then you can decide on what windows will work best for your situation, based on the installers experiance. Most installers deal with a few brands because all have there weak and strong points which make it tough to understand if your only shopping at the supplyers because they just want to sell you thier windows.

If your installing yourself or having the general contractor install them, just make sure its done correctly this includes proper shimming, insulating, flashing ect...

As for the triple pane.... do the math before you pay out the extra cash... the energy savings may only work out to pennys a month and will never pay you back for the investment. When ever I ran the numbers through hot2000 the extra money was almost always better spent on additional attic insulation. Low e, argon filled is a no brainer. For the added thermal resistance and the reduction in heat gain.

Also if you plan to install new blinds look into some of the thermal blinds that they have out. I had thermal blinds installed into our bedrooms and found a significant difference in comfort during cold winter nights... and we needed blinds anyway.

Cheers