Originally posted by: BoomerD
We had all new Simonton windows put in last year. What a HUGE difference it made in the comfort level of the house. Even though our house is only about 12 years old, they originally put in cheap-ass contractor grade double pane windows...and about half lost their seal within 5 years, PLUS, the aluminum frames "sweat" with condensation. When it was hot outside, they radiated heat, and when it was cold, it was the refrigerated case in the grocery store...
That's all gone now. With the glass upgrades we had put in, you can stand in front of a window in full sun during the summer and while light comes through, you feel NO heat.
We went with a contractor who removes the old aluminum window frames. Many don't because it's easier for them, faster, and there's less chance of damaging the vapor barrier. A GOOD contractor who knows what they're doing can remove those old frames without damaging anything.
(why would you want new windows sitting on a thin strip of aluminum that might cause the window frame to warp, plus they still stand a chance of condensation inside the wall...potentially leading to mold growth in the wall?)
You get what you pay for with replacement windows. If you found the cheapest windows on the market...that's what you're gonna get.
Spend a bit more, get better windows that will last. Ours have a lifetime guarantee and free window replacement. (which is a good thing since I managed to break one before the contractor got back to their shop after installing the new windows...long story) :roll: