I am in the process of replacing two wooden windows with vinyl windows. I have made appointments for estimates from three dealers (I may do more). I contacted Service Master, and they directed me to Sears first. My first estimators came yesterday. Two guys from Sears came. I think they originate from southeast Michigan. They measured the windows and came up with 31" × 69" for both windows (my house was built in 1917). They said this is not a standard size (which was not a problem since they manufacture the replacement windows to fit in the space). They gave me their spiel (which lasted about 1.5 hours), and finally gave me the estimate: $2175 total (without the additional 10% discount for ordering that day) for their Max model (for two windows) with an SPF that keeps out 99% of UV rays (according to their spiel). If I were to make the order that day I would get a 10-percent discount (on top of the 5-percent they already discounted). The Plus model, the middle model, had a 20-year warranty on the glass, an SPF that cuts UV rays down to 80%, and a price tag of $1849 for two windows. The lowest priced model has a 10-year warranty on the glass, and a $1500 price tag for two windows. This might be a median price for replacement windows but I want to get other estimates. I dismissed them, and am awaiting other estimates. I seem to remember when I contacted them back in January 2003 to replace windows in a rental I owned that they would contract for $800 a window.
I went with a couple of guys that the sister of my sister-in-law knew (she worked at Great Lakes Windows then). They ordered the 10 windows from Great Lakes Windows, and I paid $3,214 at that time. Unfortunately, they are now out of the business (they were in their fifties then), and I have to start afresh.
I used Door and Window Superstore about 12 years ago. Love my windows. But don't know if they are still around. They were also very resonable and I have a house built in 1925. Good luck.
We have Pella's, installed by a Pella reccommended installer 10 yrs ago. Superior window, super workmanship. Would never have any other. We did the whole house plus a sliding patio door. They have the blinds built in. I can't stress enough the quality of the product.
Your also going to have to remember that prices have gone up since you last got windows replaced,but your doing the right thing getting other estimates.
Just remember that the cheapest isn't always the best. We always got our windows from Pella or from our Anderson's rep for when we wanted wooden windows.
Thanks guys. Just got my second estimate from Hansen Windows (from Dussel Drive). Mom wants like what we had (industry standard is supposed to be argon gas between panes, which we have). Estimate was $995 for two windows. Went to my sister-in-law's sister. She still knows people in the industry. Mom is more comfortable with that.
My Mom had her windows replaced last year, and went with a local contractor that she knew. Mom got several estimates, which is important. As I remember it, one out of three was super high.
Anyway, Mom's happy. The contractor who did the work is happy, and we can all sleep nights.
Sure, do business with someone your family knows. At least you know what you're getting into that way.
I had 11 windows installed last December by Wallside Windows, the quality is outstanding and the installation was very professional. The price was $3,200 negotiated down from about $3,800.
Elmo, thnaks for info on "Wallside Windows". Will get estimate from them. Thanks.
Has anybody out there gotten windows installed by Thermo-twin of Ohio?
I haven't, but I had the rep out today. He did an estimate for $900 for the two windows measuring 30.5 × 68.5 inches if I close the deal today. I think I will still look at Wallside, and maybe Champion. Maybe because I said I was only doing estimates he was in and out in 1/2 hour vs. 1.5 hours for Sears. He said that they offer a range of customizations, including windows without argon if I wished ($18 cheaper a window).