Tag Archive for: Windows
Buying new or replacement windows can be a huge and often frightening proposition. There are so many choices out there, and the average homeowner may be afraid of making a mistake that they will have to live with for years afterward. But the decision does not have to be a frightening one. In the harsh Northeast, where the summers are just as brutal on windows as the winters. Here we’ll discuss 2 options that the homeowner can choose.
 | VS |  |
Those options are Andersen 400 Windows and Harvey Majesty Windows. None of this is to say that there are not 
differences between the products of the two companies or that the product from one company might not be slightly more suitable to a particular situation. So let us look at a few specifics.
An internal comparison survey was conducted by the United Home Experts team. We provide siding, roofing, window and door replacement services throughout eastern New England. Unbiased opinions were retrieved based on our individual experience using the products. The ratings provided are opinion based and not the result of lab testing or product specification examination.This article is intended merely to provide information to New England homeowners.
Warranty
A warranty tells a homeowner how strongly a manufacturer believes in its own product. The longer a warranty, the more faith a manufacturer has in its product. Obviously no manufacturer wants a homeowner to collect on a warranty, so manufacturers go to great lengths to make certain their product exceeds the terms of the warranty. This is great for the homeowner. The warranties of the Andersen 400 Windows and the Harvey Majesty Windows are very comparable. The Andersen windows are double-insulated with a 20-year warranty on the glass and a 10-year warranty on all other parts. The Harvey product is also double-insulated with the exact same 20-year warranty on glass and 10 years on all other parts.
Warranties for both companies are transferable to a new owner should a homeowner sell before the warranty period is up”a terrific plus for a buyer, and one that could well aid in the sale of a home.
Andersen Windows allows customers to choose from a number of different types of glass, including Low-E4 tempered glass, which reduces water spots on the glass by up to 99%, or Low-E4 Smartsun tempered glass, which filters out up to 95% of all harmful UV rays. All Low-E4 glass helps reduce energy consumption in a home. Andersen’s option of Low-E4 Glass may be a deciding factor for some purchasers.
Primary Features
The Harvey Majesty product comes in a wide choice of shapes: ellipsis, trapezoid, round top and more. If the homeowner requires specialized shapes for windows or glass, Harvey windows might be a good place to start. Both the upper and lower sash tilts in for easy cleaning, and the tilting mechanism never needs adjusting. Harvey Windows are available in both pine and oak frames for easy staining or painting.
The Andersen window also tilts in for easy cleaning and the frames are customizable for non-standard window sizes, ideal for replacements in an historical home. Anderson also offers a virtually invisible screen to keep insects out in the summer. The Andersen line offers a rich wood interior that can be stained or painted to match the owner’s d(C)cor, and all Andersen products feature a low-maintenance exterior frame. Andersen windows are also cleverly designed for fast installation with almost no disruption to any existing frame or siding.
Installation
For maximum warranty protection it is advisable that window experts such as United Home Experts are consulted and employed for any home remodel of this importance. Allowing outside experts to help in choosing the right windows for a particular situation, as well as doing the actual installation, makes good business sense and may help insure the overall value of a home.
An internal comparison paint survey was conducted by the United Home Experts team. We provide siding, roofing, window and door replacement services throughout eastern New England. Unbiased opinions were retrieved based on our individual experience using the products. The ratings provided are opinion based and not the result of lab testing or product specification examination.
 | VS | |
Homeowners in New England know that the weather can be extreme and unpredictable. Hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters are typical in this region, which is why having the most efficient, high-quality windows installed in the home is crucial. This article will compare and contrast the window products offered by two top names in the industry: Pella, and Andersen. They are two companies that end up measuring up quite even.
Both companies have been succeeding in the window industry for over 80 years, which contributes to their good reputations. When it comes to warranty, both manufacturers deliver, with similar warranties of around 20 years for glass and 10 years for non-glass parts. As for style, this is perhaps the biggest area of variation. While both manufacturers offer homeowners a wide variety of styles of windows, such as bay, single or double-hung, casement, sliding, awning, and specialty or custom, Andersen claims to offer the most options in the business. For example, the company produces a picture window, which Pella does not seem to have. However, Pella offers a specialty feature of its own with its Rolscreen window screen, which is actually the company’s claim to fame. The technology behind this screen enables homeowners to simply roll it away when it is not needed. Overall, the companies offer a wide array of similar styles with just a few slight differences. This also holds true for the types of frames that both companies offer, namely wood, vinyl and composite.
Homeowners can also expect high energy efficiency in their Pella or Andersen windows. Both companies make
use of low-E or low emissivity coating. This microscopic metal coating lies in the glass of windows, acting as a self-reflector of heat in the winter, and keeping heat out during the hotter months. Pella windows for the region have this feature, along with “Pella innovation” in the form of the best possible combinations of glass, thermal breaks and shades to achieve maximum results. Andersen offers Low-E4, Low-E4 SmartSun and Low-E4 Sun glass, which are custom-made to work best in different climates.
Pella and Andersen have both become trusted and respected leaders in the window industry for good reason. They offer high-quality products of a huge variety that are overall very comparable in all the areas that matter.
An internal comparison survey was conducted by the United Home Experts team. We provide siding, roofing, window and door replacement services throughout eastern New England. Unbiased opinions were retrieved based on our individual experience using the products. The ratings provided are opinion based and not the result of lab testing or product specification examination.
 | VS |  |
When it comes to window replacement, there seems to be a great debate as to which is the best brand between Simonton and Harvey. The manufacturers of both brands offer their window product line to homeowners and contractors within the New England region.
In addition, both have received high praises from experts and customers who have successfully installed windows from both companies. Despite the positive feedback on both of these providers, based on our personal opinion in working with products and personnel from each manufacturer, only one deserves to be called the best window replacement brand which can truly offer ultimate quality, price, and customer satisfaction: Simonton Windows.
Many homeowners living in New England, especially those 
located in the eastern area, prefer vinyl windows over aluminum and wood because of vinyl’s energy efficient nature. Installing fixtures that are energy-efficient can help homeowners save on costly energy bills. And when it comes to “going green,” Simonton’s products are an excellent choice, with product lines awarded with the ENERGY STAR seal. Their added features such as double-tower glazing, Intercept, Supercept, and Superspacer, all of which offer optimum condensation resistance, make Simonton an even more energy-saving choice than Harvey’s ENERGY STAR products.
Simonton knows that homeowners have different tastes and a wide variety of specific needs when it comes to their homes. With this in mind, purchasing from a company that offers a wide variety of windows in different shapes and sizes is ideal. Simonton offers a plethora of window styles for both new and replacement construction projects. On the Generations line, featured by United Home Experts, Simonton offers several interior wood grain finishes that closely mimic real wood. They also offer a variety of exterior finish colors, and polished metal sash locks. See this page for more. When contrasted with the smaller selection of window collections from Harvey Windows, Simonton is clearly a better choice for a wide variety of homeowner tastes.
The last factor that consumers consider when choosing windows between Harvey and Simonton is durability and ease of use in the long haul. Considering that the company has almost 70 years of experience in building windows, it is clear that Simonton has successfully perfected windows craftsmanship. Simonton’s aesthetically pleasing, innovative design has a legacy of lasting and timeless elegance. Simonton has also won J.D. Powers & Associates award 3 times!
For 70 years, homeowners have turned to Simonton for the best in beautiful, durable and high-quality windows. When it comes to the utmost in energy-efficiency, value, design, and durability, the product offerings from Simonton Windows are undoubtedly the better choice for home window replacement needs!
This article will take a look into two different products, Marvin Integrity and Harvey windows. Integrity windows 
feature a selection of fiberglass windows with fiberglass frames, while Harvey Industries windows offer insulating windows in wood or vinyl.
Window Types
Harvey Industries offers 5 different types of windows, including vinyl, wood, impact, acoustic, and storm. The impact windows were designed to hold up against rigorous coastal conditions such as wind, rain, and other debris. Acoustic windows were created to reduce traffic noise and are thus suitable for those living in the city or near a highway. The acoustic windows help to filter out the sound from aircraft, trains, and cars, as well as provide heating and cooling cost savings.
Customers also have the option to choose between some added options screens on their windows, which provide 50% more visibility than standard fiberglass screens as well as improved airflow into the home.
Integrity offers 7 different types of window frame styles, all illustrated clearly on the company’s website. These types include polygon windows, round windows, single windows, double windows, casement and awning windows, glider windows, and bay windows. This large selection guarantees that customers will be able to find the right fit for them.
Integrity window frames are made up of Ultrex fiberglass. Ultrex fiberglass is the key element used in making Integrity windows. Ultrex is 8x stronger than vinyl, it’s durable, weather resistant, and beautiful. Integrity windows are available in either “All-Ultrex” meaning fiberglass inside and out, or “Wood-Ultrex” meaning fiberglass on the outside with hand crafted wood on the inside. This series combines the strength of a fiberglass material with the traditional look of a handcrafted wood frame. The strength of fiberglass means the window frames can be thinner giving the homeowner more glass space and visibility in each window opening.
Homeowners will find that there is a large selection from both companies, which gives them the flexibility to explore all their options and find the perfect windows for their home.
Resources
Harvey Industries maintains a website that is relatively easy to navigate. However, many of the options have to be individually searched for, and the windows types are not distinctly separated on the website. In addition, the website provides comprehensive information on the manufacturer’s warranties on paint and other components.
Integrity offers a full resource library with each of its products, detailing specific measures and other important information. These details are all on PDF files that can be downloaded at any time from the Integrity website.
Buyers can make use of both company’s resources before making a decision. Both companies have a comprehensive online presence, allowing for homeowners to make a selection that they are comfortable with and are informed about.
In summary, one might choose Harvey windows specifically for noise reduction or resistance to damage from coastal weather, but in our experience Integrity windows are superior in beauty, strength, and sleekness (glass space).
It’s rare you’ll get a straight answer over the phone or on a website to the question “How Much Do New Windows 
Cost”—even when you call us (to be honest). One reason you’ll have trouble getting a response on the phone or internet is because some window companies want to meet you in person and use all sorts of high pressure sales tactics to pressure you into signing on the dotted line. The second more legitimate reason is because the cost of new windows really does depend on the situation. There are a number of factors that can drastically change the cost of having house windows installed. As a company who gets this question a lot, I want to share some valuable insights, AND give you some actual window pricing for a rough idea of what new windows might cost you.
Factors Influencing the Cost of New
Windows
- Brand of windows
- Window frame material (Vinyl, Wood, Aluminum, Fiberglass, etc.)
- Size of windows
- Style of windows
- Type of components (grilles, grids, hardware, etc.)
- Glass package (type and quantity of glass panes, coatings, and gas)
- Insert/replacement style vs. Tear-out/new-construction style
- House framing type (Wood, Brick, Metal, etc.)
- Need for new trim or rot replacement
- Location of windows (access issues)
- Quantity of windows (larger quantities are often discounted)
Cost of Windows Adjusted With Variables
Installed By a Handy-man / General Contractor
You should know that installing windows properly takes some experience. It’s well documented that the vast majority of window failures that happen in the first few years are a result of bad installation not a manufacturer defect. Be careful when selecting a window installer not to choose someone who has insufficient experience or a short track record. Also know that a window warranty is virtually worthless without a labor warranty along side it. Most small contractors do not provide a written labor warranty.
| Vinyl | Composite/Fiberglass | Wood Clad | |||
| Cheapest | $375-$425 | Can’t Get / Rarely Offers | Cheapest | $525-$600 | |
| Standard | $425-$475 | Standard | $650-$725 | ||
| Specialty | $575-$625 | Specialty | $860-$1000 | ||
Installed by A Local Window Specialist
This type of company is a better option than the alternatives. Although you still have to be careful whom you hire, a window specialist (meaning a company that specializes in installing windows and other things) will have more experience than a generalist, but will be a better value than a large brand franchise or big box store.
| Vinyl | Composite/Fiberglass | Wood Clad | |||
| Cheapest | $425-$475 | Cheapest | $600-$675 | Cheapest | $700-$800 |
| Standard | $500-$625 | Standard | $675-$800 | Standard | $775-$950 |
| Specialty | $600-$750 | Specialty | $800-1050 | Specialty | $925-$1200 |
Installed by A Big Brand Affiliate or Big Box Store
The most widely used window installation service is that of big brand franchises and big box stores with a national presence. Be sure to do your homework about the quality of installation, warranty track record, and expansive cost of overhead to run to these operations. Make sure you’re not paying for expensive advertising, and sales commisions which often add up to more than the cost of the actual windows and installation.
| Vinyl | Composite/Fiberglass | Wood Clad | |||
| Cheapest | $535-$595 | Cheapest | $775-$925 | Cheapest | $975-$1125 |
| Standard | $575-$725 | Standard | $975-$1225 | Standard | $1175-$1425 |
| Specialty | $675-$925 | Specialty | $1275-$1625 | Specialty | $1475-$1825 |
Although in many cases it’s true that “you get what you pay for”, in the case of replacement windows you also want to be aware of what exactly you are paying for and what exactly you can expect for long-term value. There are many people in the industry who have good intentions but are just not in the right system to give you a good value. There are others who thrive on taking advantage of unsuspecting homeowners. Be cautious and go with your instinct.
Homeowners spend a lot of time purchasing the perfect windows for their homes, so why not go the extra mile and pick the right window screen too? Screens provide the finishing touch to a home’s window needs, but not all screens are the same. Choosing the right one takes time and a bit of research, but the finishing touch will make the outside and inside of the home look perfect.
How to Choose the Right Screen
Not all screens are alike. A homeowner needs to figure out what they are looking for in a window treatment and screens. Some people merely want decoration while others desire usability. If a window is merely for embellishment, a decorative screen will suffice. For a homeowner who plans to let a lot of the outside in, an adjustable screen might be the best option. For homeowners in the New England area, winters are harsh and double screens might be preferred. Does the homeowner have a cat that spends a lot of time sunbathing by the window seal? Then a tough screen material might be needed. All of these issues add to the process of figuring out the best option for a home.
Types of Screens
Most homeowners are not aware that window screens come in several different varieties. Standard screens are found on most homes and are made of aluminum, copper, or some other lightweight metal. These screens allow for easy installation and often cost less. A pet screen will fit the needs of Fido or Fluffy, being built of sturdy vinyl-coated polyester, ensuring that the pet doesn’t suddenly end up outside rather than on the window seal. Fiberglass screens are sold in several varieties and are flexible and lightweight, and are often used in mobile homes or modular homes due to their inexpensive cost. However, fiberglass is also sold in a sturdier type for regular home use. Adjustable window screens are built for various size windows and adjust vertically or sideways. They are perfect for double-paned windows, designed to insulate homes in cold areas such as Massachusetts, Rhode Island and southern New Hampshire. Often these screens rise from the bottom, but the upper screen remains stationary.
Whichever design a homeowner chooses, the homeowner should be sure to call United Home Experts. The company serves the areas of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and southern New Hampshire, and its contractors will be happy to discuss screen options and to give a cost estimate.
Author: Emilio Bonilla
Replacing vinyl windows is not something that people think as an item for home improvement. That is, of course, unless one has owned the house for more than a few years. Like all other parts of a house exposed to the elements, windows deteriorate. When the time comes to replace it, there are several important things to keep in mind.
The Whole Window Often Does Not Need Replacement
More often than not, the window’s frame does not need to be replaced. It is the sturdiest part of the window and, if properly installed, will last a long time. It is also the most difficult to remove. Leaks, which can potentially raise a home’s energy cost, can easily be remedied by making repairs instead of prematurely “ripping out” the window.
The glass panels and the moving parts of the window are what commonly gets worn out or damaged. Simply replacing these with new ones will save money. Vinyl can also be repainted, as the color scheme becomes boring or faded.
Whole Window Replacement Is Expensive
Although vinyl is an inexpensive material, the job of taking out an old window and putting a new one in place is costly. Damage to the part of the wall to which the old window was attached has to be repaired first before it can properly support a new one. If the new window is different from the old one in size, shape, or type, then the hole should be adjusted accordingly.
Some people hire a handyman to save on the labor cost. Unfortunately, their expertise is limited as these people are really generalists instead of specialists who have extensive experience in removing old vinyl windows and replacing them with new ones. United Home Experts is one such specialist in the New England area. Their long experience in window installation ensures that potential problems are prevented.
Replacing A Window Is Not A Do-It-Yourself Job
Although many people pride themselves in their ability to learn something new quickly, a homeowner will basically be experimenting most of the time. This is not the case for a professional contractor who will know all that need to be done and who is experienced enough to be able to do the job quickly with pleasing results.
The Professional Advantage
Replacing old windows is a process that entails many steps. There are several things that could go wrong during the process if an amateur handles the job. This will lead to more expense because a professional will then need to be hired to solve whatever mistakes were made. Immediately approaching professionals who have had many successful projects, say, United Home Experts, will help the owner enjoy the new window early and with less hassle. For more information about our window replacement services, visit our main window page!
