Okna 800 Window Reviews

The Okna 800 Series or Enviro-Star is billed as their “top of the line” offering.  Typically we’re a little hesitant to believe all of the top of the line hype that typically accompanies a top of the line window, but let’s take a look at what the Okna 800 Enviro-Star has to offer.

First, the Okna 800 window uses a slightly thicker frame than the Okna 500 series that we reviewed earlier.  The thicker frame isn’t good or bad, but it does reduce the glass area which reduces the amount of light that can get through the window.

One design element that we like on the 800 series as compared to the 500 series is the design of the frame on the exterior.  While it’s still a little busy, it’s much less busy than the less expensive Okna 500.

Okna 800 reviews, price Enviro-Star
You can see that there are still a lot of details on the frame, it has a better look than the 500 series.

One feature that sounds neat, but appears to have absolutely no benefit is the magnetic seal at the bottom.  As you can see in the diagram below there is a magnetic seal at the bottom of the Okna 800 window.  That sounds like a pretty slick feature.  After all it works for your refrigerator why wouldn’t it work for a window.

Okna 800 Enviro-Star reviews
The Okna 800 Enviro-Star has a magnetic seal at the bottom.

So it sounds cool and it makes sense, but it turns out it doesn’t do much for you.  The Okna 800 series has a 0.01 air infiltration rating according to their website.  The Okna 500 series without the magnetic seal has a rating 0.02.  So it’s supposed to make the window seal tighter, but unfortunately it doesn’t make much of a difference.  At least it sounds cool 😉

Okna Enviro-Star 800 series windows.
Here you can see the mortised sill dam on the Okna 800 Enviro-Star.

Beyond that there are several other design elements that definitely make this a next generation product.  The mortised sill dam (shown above) and the fully welded sloped sill (shown below) are important features that contribute to the overall performance.  Okna certainly isn’t the only manufacturer to include these features, but older designs typically do not have them.

Okna Enviro-Star windows
Here is the true sloped sill on the Enviro-Star.

The last product pic we’ll show you is the lift rail.  This is a little unusual and frankly I’m not a huge fan.  It’s certainly a style issue so it’s as subjective as anything else.  This lift rail (shown below) stands out a little too much in my opinion and has the potential to break or snap off in the future.  If you like the look then go for it, but I don’t think it’s for me.

Okna windows ratings, lawsuit, waranty
The unusual lift rail on the Okna 800 Enviro-Star

So, what’s the price of an Okna 800?

These windows are typically sold at a higher price due to the “top of the line” type sales pitch.  At the end of the day it’s a fine product with several nice features, but there is nothing about this window that you can’t find in several other models.  When you see companies trying to sell this product for $500 or more for a basic white window you can be sure that’s a little on the high side.

If you’re looking for a window company right now, the best advice we have is to check out our list of the best window companies all over the country.  You can find it right here. 

The Best Window Company in Madison – Jordan Exteriors

If you’re looking for the very best window company in Madison, WI you’re in luck.  My friend Chris owns Jordan Exteriors and they’ve been doing fantastic work in Madison and the surrounding area for years.

Chris has an interesting story.  He worked renovating homes in England for years before moving to the Madison area.  In Madison he worked for another window company for several years before he and his business partner started their own business.

They’ve been doing great work installing windows and doors all over the Madison area for many years now and they’ve won the Angie’s List Super Service award 10 years in a row.

Chris married a nice girl from southern Wisconsin and they have 2 beautiful daughters.  His partner runs the installation teams which is a great benefit to you the customer.  They’re not relying on random subcontractors to make sure your project turns out great.  That’s one of many reasons we’re happy to call them the best window company in Madison.

If you have a window or a door project in mind it’ll most certainly be worth your time to meet with Chris and his team.  I’m sure you’ll see why they’re the very best window company in Madison and the surrounding area.

If you’d like to meet with the team from Jordan Exteriors to get a quote for your project there are a few easy ways to reach them.

No matter how you reach out, be sure to let them know that Dan from TheWindowDog sent you!

  1. The easiest way to reach them is to give them a ring at 608-341-8096.
  2. You can also send them an email at Joe@JordanExteriors.com.
  3. You can fill out the form below and they’ll reach out to you.  Don’t worry we NEVER share your info with anyone.








Soft-Lite Pro vs Soft-Lite Classic

We’ve received a few requests recently to compare the Soft-Lite Pro vs Soft-Lite Classic windows.  As you’ll see below these two window models are pretty similar.  In fact, they are essentially the same window with a few small differences.

Soft-lite pro vs Soft-Lite classic windows reviewsAs you can see here, the two windows are essentially the same.  This picture points out the biggest difference between the Soft-Lite Pro vs Soft-Lite Classic windows.  The exterior design of the frame is a little busier on the Pro model.  We tend to like the simple look of the classic, but it’s your house, pick out whichever style you like best.

Another difference between the two models is the foam insulation in the frame.

Soft-lite foam filled frames

As you can see in the picture above, the foam insulation in the frame is standard with the Soft-Lite Pro and it’s optional with the Soft-Lite Classic.  Typically foam insulation in frames is mostly about the sales pitch.  It typically doesn’t have much affect on the ratings, but if you like the idea make sure it’s included.

The last difference is the reinforcement in the sash.  As you can see in this picture the Pro model comes with standard reinforcement in the sash and the Classic does not.

soft lite pro classic reinforced sashThe reinforcement helps the window stand up to extreme windows and can also help with intrusion prevention.  This is more important for very wide windows or for windows that will be subjected to very high winds.  Generally speaking we recommend getting windows with reinforced sashes.  The cost isn’t very high and it does make them stronger.

That’s it!

Those are all of the differences in the Soft-Lite Pro vs Soft-Lite Classic windows.  Typically when contractors offer the Classic window for a few dollars less than the Pro they’re not ordering the foam filled frames or the reinforced sashes.  If you want these features be sure they’re included.  Once they are added in the pricing should be about the same between these two windows.

If you have any more specific questions about Soft-Lite windows just let us know.  You can find more detailed information and reviews of Soft-Lite products right here!

Soft-Lite Pro Windows Reviews

The Soft-Lite Pro window is very similar to the Soft-Lite Classic window as they both fall in the middle of the Soft-Lite window line.

The Soft-Lite Pro window aren’t especially remarkable, but they have decent ratings, larger glass area than other options, and are typically offered at a better price than other Soft-Lite windows.  As we go through the review we’ll look at the style, the warranty, the ratings, and the drawbacks.

So how about the Soft-Lite Pro ratings?

When you look at the nfrc ratings you’ll see that the Soft-Lite Pro windows tend to be unremarkable.  This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but there isn’t anything fantastic abut ratings like these.  For more detailed explanations of what the ratings mean click here.

As with most replacement windows there are many glass options that can affect the ratings.  This model is available with triple pane glass and U-Factors as low as 0.18.  This range of U-Factors (from 0.30 to 0.18) is pretty typical.

You’ll probably also notice that the Visible Transmittance ratings for this window are considerably better than the Soft-Lite Imperial LS and the Soft-Lite Elements and  that we’ve reviewed in the past .  This means you’ll get much MORE glass area with similar efficiency ratings with this model.

How about air infiltration or air leakage?

So the degree to which Soft-Lite focuses on air infiltration ratings is kind of a joke within the industry.  The degree to which some salespeople dwell on these ratings can be downright comical.  In this case the air infiltration rating is 0.07 to 0.11 depending on how the window is equipped.

In their brochure they highlight the 0.07 number and put the 0.11 number in the fine print in the bottom. The ratings aren’t always as good as they might first appear.

These ratings are fine, but they aren’t remarkable.  We’ve written at length on how air infiltration ratings are misconstrued so we won’t repeat everything here.  Just remember that these ratings are just fine and you’ll probably never notice the difference between this and a window with “better” ratings.

What about the style options?

One thing we’re not thrilled with about the Soft-Lite Pro windows is the complex design on the exterior.

We know that windows with all sorts of fancy lines, details and designs on the exterior can look sharp when a sample is sitting on your kitchen table.  Just remember that once the windows are installed you want them to look like they’ve always been part of the house rather than some fancy thing that was added later.  This design it’s nearly as busy as some, but it looks a little too complicated in our mind, but it’s your house, get what you like.

How about the Soft-Lite Pro warranty?

If you’ve been shopping for windows you’ve seen that most say they come with a “lifetime warranty”.  You need to really read the warranty to see what is actually covered.  In this case there are several important limitations:

  • Soft-Lite does not cover labor to fix a warranty problem
  • Soft-Lite does not cover glass breakage
  • Soft-Lite does not cover shipping of replacement parts

These limitations aren’t necessarily deal breakers they are more limited than what you’ll find from many other manufacturers.  You may find that your local dealer adds to the warranty.  That’s fine, just make sure you have it in writing.  You should also know that the warranty is only as good as the company that backs it.

Our complete breakdown of the Soft-Lite window warranty will be published soon.

How about drawbacks of this Soft-Lite Pro window?

One drawback is the fact that Soft-Lite is a relatively small manufacturer.  While they have been growing, their total sales just recently surpassed $50MM according to Window and Door magazine.  This may sound like a lot, but for a manufacturing company it’s relatively small.  The risk there is that smaller companies that made fine products (e.g. Gorell, Schuco, Kensington, Republic, etc) have come and gone.  When one of these companies goes away all of the folks who purchased their products are left with no warranty.  This is a risk with any company, but it is very important to recognize with a smaller company like Soft-Lite.

Another drawback to consider is the use of inexpensive hardware in the Soft-Lite Pro window.  They use the cheaper constant force balance mechanisms to let the windows open and close.  These are common among lower end windows and they’re known to have shorter operating lives than other types.  Is this a high deal?  No, but it is one way Soft-Lite has cut cost out of this product that you should be aware of.

So what’s the bottom line?

At the end of the day, if you’re set on getting Soft-Lite windows the Soft-Lite Pro is a decent option, but you may want to take a look at the Soft-Lite Classic as it’s essentially the same window with cleaner lines.  We tend to think the “higher end” windows look like they’re trying too hard and the mid-range windows tend to offer the best value.  There are a few drawbacks mentioned above and I wouldn’t pay more for this window that comparable windows from other manufacturers, if you can get good pricing from a reputable local company this window could be a good value.

Take a look at more reviews of windows from Soft-Lite or other replacement window manufacturers.

Disclosure: based on the info provided here and our detailed consideration of all of the replacement windows available today our company has elected to occasionally offer Soft-Lite windows in several markets.

How can you find a great window company?

That part is easy.  Check this section for recommendations of window companies all over the country. There’s no better way to get new windows.

Other posts you might find interesting:

Soft-Lite Classic Windows Reviews

The Soft-Lite Classic window falls in the middle of the Soft-Lite window lineup.  There is nothing particularly remarkable about the Soft-Lite Classic windows, but they have solid ratings, large glass area, and are typically offered at more competitive prices.  As we go through the review we’ll look at the ratings, the style, the warranty and the drawbacks.

So how about the Soft-Lite Classic ratings?

The Soft-Lite Classic windows tend to come with relatively common efficiency ratings.

As with all windows there are several glass options that can affect the ratings.  With triple pane glass they can achieve U-Factors as low as 0.18 which is common.  This range of U-Factors (from 0.30 to 0.18) is pretty typical.  T

You’ll probably also notice that the Visible Transmittance ratings for this model are considerably better than the Soft-Lite Elements and the Soft-Lite Imperial LS that we’ve reviewed previously .  This means you’ll get MORE glass area with similar efficiency ratings with this model.

How about air infiltration ratings?

So the degree to which Soft-Lite focuses on air infiltration ratings is kind of a joke within the industry.  The degree to which some salespeople dwell on these ratings can be comical.  In this case the air infiltration rating is 0.07 to 0.11 depending on how the window is equipped.

These ratings are fine, but they aren’t remarkable.  We’ve written at length on how air infiltration ratings are misconstrued so we won’t repeat everything here.  The short answer is that these ratings are just fine and you’ll probably never notice the difference between this and a window with “better” ratings.

What about the style options?

One thing we like about the Soft-Lite Classic windows is the simple design on the exterior.  It doesn’t have all of the curly fancy business on the outside that you’ll find on some other Soft-Lite models.

We know that windows with all sorts of fancy lines, details and designs on the exterior can look sharp when a sample is sitting on your kitchen table.  Just remember that once the windows are installed you want them to look like they’ve always been part of the house rather than some fancy thing that was added later.  This simple design lends itself to that style.

How about the Soft-Lite Classic warranty?

If you’ve been shopping for windows you’ve seen that most say they come with a “lifetime warranty”.  You need to really read the warranty to see what is actually covered.  In this case there are several important limitations:

  • Soft-Lite does not cover glass breakage
  • Soft-Lite does not cover labor to fix a warranty problem
  • Soft-Lite does not cover shipping of replacement parts

These limitations aren’t necessarily deal breakers they are more limited than what you’ll find from several other manufacturers.  You may find that your local dealer adds to the warranty.  That’s fine, just make sure you have it in writing.

Our complete breakdown of the Soft-Lite window warranty will be published soon.

How about drawbacks of this Soft-Lite Classic window?

One drawback to consider is the use of inexpensive hardware in the Soft-Lite Classic window.  They use the cheaper constant force balance mechanisms to let the windows open and close.  These are common among lower end windows and they’re known to have shorter operating lives than other types.  Is this a high deal?  No, but it is one way Soft-Lite has cut cost out of this product that you should be aware of.

Another drawback is the fact that Soft-Lite is a relatively small manufacturer.  While they have been growing, their total sales just recently surpassed $50MM according to Window and Door magazine.  This may sound like a lot, but for a manufacturing company it’s relatively small.  The risk there is that smaller companies that made fine products (e.g. Gorell, Schuco, Kensington, Republic, etc) have come and gone.  When one of these companies goes away all of the folks who purchased their products are left with no warranty.  This is a risk with any company, but it is very important to recognize with a smaller company like Soft-Lite.

So what’s the bottom line?

At the end of the day, if you’re set on getting Soft-Lite windows the Soft-Lite Classic is one of our favorites.  We tend to think the “higher end” windows look like they’re trying too hard and the mid-range windows tend to offer the best value.  There are a few drawbacks mentioned above and I wouldn’t pay more for this window that comparable windows from other manufacturers, if you can get good pricing from a reputable local company this window could be a good value.

Take a look at more reviews of windows from Soft-Lite or other replacement window manufacturers.

How can you find a great window company?

That part is easy.  Check this section for recommendations of window companies all over the country. There’s no better way to get new windows.

Other posts you might find interesting:

Soft-Lite Imperial LS Windows Reviews

Here we’ll take a look at the Soft-Lite Imperial LS windows.  When comparing Soft-Lite windows you’ll notice that different dealers will often offer or recommend different models.  For some dealers the Imperial LS is the fanciest model they offer while other will push the Soft-Lite Elements model.  These two models are relatively similar except that the Imperial LS window is often offered at a lower price so it typically represents a better value.

As with most replacement windows these days there are many glass options to chose from.  These options will affect the ratings so it’s important to make sure you pick the one that is right for you.  Remember that lower is not always better.

Ratings for the Soft-Lite Imperial LS windows vary from a U-Factor of 0.28 down to 0.17.  The solar heat gain ranges from 0.28 to 0.24.

As you can see, these ratings are solid, but they’re not one of a kind.  For example the visible transmittance rating of 0.51 and lower for a double pane window is a little low.  That is due to the fact that the Imperial LS window uses a thicker frame than some other options.  If you’re going with double pane glass there are other windows that will give you more light at the same efficiency ratings.  The salesperson offering the Soft-Lite Imperial LS windows typically won’t point that out.

From a design standpoint, the Soft-Lite Imperial LS windows are available with two different types of locks that both look sharp.  The recessed hardware shown below has a very clean, simple look that many folks appreciate.

They also offer the Auto-Majik self locking lock.  Despite the horribly awkward name, it can be a convenient option.  I’ve never felt that locking windows myself was too much of a chore, but if you do this will save you a step.

One drawback to the Soft-Lite Imperial LS is the balance mechanism that they use.  The balance mechanism is the component that lets the window open and close and prevents it from falling.  It’s a little bit of a surprise that Soft-Lite still uses constant force balances even in their nicer offerings.  They’ll tell you why it’s great, but we’ve received a few Soft-Lite samples with coil balances and they both have issues.  We’ll be uploading some videos showing how they perform soon.

Typically higher end windows have moved away from these coil balances for several reasons including longevity.  Instead of switching the type, Soft-Lite opted to change the name.  They call it an Endura-Force balance.  These balance mechanisms do work ok, and they are easy enough to replace when they fail, but it would be a nice touch to do away with these balances.

How about the Soft-Lite Imperial LS warranty?

As is the case with all quality replacement windows they come with a “lifetime warranty”.  As always you need to really read the warranty to see what is actually covered.  In this case there are several important limitations:

  • Soft-Lite does not cover labor to fix a warranty problem
  • Soft-Lite does not cover shipping of replacement parts
  • Soft-Lite does not cover glass breakage

These limitations aren’t necessarily deal breakers they are more limited than what you’ll find from several other manufacturers.

 What’s the bottom line?

The Soft-Lite Imperial LS window is a fine option.  There’s nothing too remarkable about it and the pricing offered by local dealers can vary quite a bit.

When comparing options don’t be swayed by a salesperson who may tell you that this is the absolute greatest product ever produced by mankind.  It’s a good window, but you can find similar products from other manufacturers.  As always there are no vinyl double hung windows that are worth $800 per window.  If you’re buying this one in the $400-$500 range you’re probably getting a decent value.  If you’re getting quotes any higher than that for typical windows it would be wise to keep looking.

So, how should I decide who to work with?

The window business is challenging, that’s for sure. Every company says they’re the best and they all say that everyone else is horrible. It can feel difficult to navigate, but luckily it’s really not that hard.

I always suggest starting with a company with a good reputation and a solid track record. Then listed to what they have to suggest. Ask any questions about it, ask about options both more expensive and less expensive. When you feel like they’re offering a reasonable value that fits your needs you should buy it.

It is not a good idea to fall in love with a window brand before yo’ve found someone to install them. That said, you can find the best window reviews on the internet right here.

To try to help in that regard we’ve compiled a list of great companies all over the country. We may not know anyone in your neighborhood yet but it doesn’t’ hurt to ask. You can find our list of the best replacement window companies right here.

How can you find a great window company?

That part is easy.  Check this section for recommendations of window companies all over the country. There’s no better way to get new windows.

Other posts you might find interesting:

Provia ecoLite Windows Reviews

This might be one of the easier window reviews we’ve written. If you’re considering the Provia ecoLite window for your house you should probably look elsewhere. If you’re considering the Provia ecoLite window for a rental house you should definitely look elsewhere.

Want to know why? We’ll tell you right here.

Provia ecoLite windows reviews, warranty and price.

Why you should not get Provia ecoLite windows in your house

Provia started as a door company and they make very nice doors. Their doors also come with very nice prices which mean they’re not for everyone.

I personally sold Provia doors for years I can tell you some people were shocked at the prices. The people who did buy were always satisfied with the results because the doors are very nice. My company still offers them and they’re still very nice.

That’s not the case with the ecoLite windows. They’re marketed as a low end and low priced product which is not what Provia is used to doing. Provia is used to being expensive and backing that up with decent quality. They don’t know how to be a low cost producer.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, good quality is good, but it comes with higher prices.

Provia not very good at producing cheap windows. They charge too much for the windows relative to what you get. If you just want a low priced product for your house you can definitely find more for your money elsewhere.

When you buy a low end product from a company that is used to charging higher prices you just guarantee that you’ll overpay for what you get.

Why you should not get Provia ecoLite windows for a rental house

You should not buy Provia ecoLite windows for a rental house because the warranty is pretty terrible.

These windows only come with a 5-year warranty when installed in a rental house or any property owned by a business. That’s pretty bad. They also only come with a 1 year warranty on the hardware and 10 years on the insulated glass unit (glass breakage is not included).

If the salesman tells you anything else they’re either confused or just trying to get the order.

The last thing you want in a rental house is a cheap window with a very short warranty. It’s just not a good value proposition.

So, what’s the bottom line?

This is a cheap window at a less than cheap price. Why would anyone buy it? Beats me. If you’re looking for cheap you can certainly find it, there’s no need to overpay for a cheap product.

If you’re shopping for windows I do always suggest finding a great installation company before you fall in love with any particular window model. There are plenty of great window options out there but not as many local companies that are great to work with.

To find our recommended window companies all over the country check this section. If we know someone in your neck of the woods they’ll be listed there and they’ll be happy to help.

If we don’t know anyone local to you be sure to let us know who you find. I’m sure you’re not the only person looking.

Remember, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies in your area right here. There’s no need to work with a company that gives you the run-around or makes the process difficult. There are plenty of fish in the sea as they say. The best way to get started is to check out our list of great window companies.

Provia Aspect Windows Reviews

The Provia Aspect window model is designed to be a “mid-range” replacement window option. That can be a tricky term to define. Did Provia produce a good quality window product at an affordable price or a stripped down version of their nicer Provia Endure model? We’ll find out.

Provia Aspect windows reviews prices and warranty.

First, it’s important to note that the wholesale cost difference between a “mid-range” and a “high-end” replacement window is typically pretty small. We’re talking something like $20-$40 difference in cost per window for the contractor. That’s a little secret I’m not supposed to share with you.

I know the salesman might show you a much larger price difference. It might be as high as $100 or $200 per window. Why does the salesman do that? It usually has more to do with his commission than anything else. Those door to door sales people can be tricky. If you’re seeing a wide retail price disparity someone is messing with you.

What about the Provia Aspect features?

The Aspect model is a decent window model. It doesn’t come with many of the features that you can get from other manufactures at similar prices. Because of that I’d tend to say it’s not a great value.

For example, it uses the cheaper constant force or coil balance mechanisms vs the nicer type used in nicer window models. Provia calls the cheaper balance “roller-tilt” which is a cute name but it’s not the best mechanism out there.

They’ll offer other features like 3-1/4″ jamb depths, sunshield vinyl, dual vent latches and more. Those features are all 100% common and easily found on almost any window model. There’s nothing to write home about there.

Ultimately there’s not really anything special about this product.

What are the color options?

The Aspect window is very limited in terms of available colors. If fact right now it’s only available in white, beige or sandstone.

Provia Aspect colors, prices, cost and warranty information.

If you want any other colors or woodgrain interior options you’ll need to upgrade to the more expensive Provia Endure line.

What about Provia Aspect prices?

Retail prices for replacement windows can be all over the map. If you could find windows like this for $300 per window that would be a great deal, but prices like that seem to be long gone.

I do think it’s important to remember that the windows will be in the house for decades. Getting a nicer quality product, even at a slightly higher price, will likely be a good move. In a couple years you won’t remember the price but you will still have the windows.

The salesman told me about Super Spacer, is that a good thing?

Spacers in windows are a common part of the sales pitch. Provia windows come with a non-metallic spacer called Super Spacer. This is the same type they use in the doors and it’s a nice product.

Provia Aspect Super Spacer and pricing information.

The friendly door to door salesman will likely leave out the fact that most window companies will offer a non-metallic spacer. It’s not really a differentiator but it is a good product.

Is the Provia Aspect warranty any good?

The warranty on these windows is perfectly decent but not too remarkable. If you think you might rent your house one day you might want to look for a different manufacturer because their warranty is very limited for a rental.

For a house that you’ll be living in the warranty is better. It’s a lifetime warranty and it’s transferable when you sell the house. It’s only transferable if you transfer it within 30 days of selling the house but that’s not really a huge deal.

We do have a new post coming that will be reviewing the Provia window warranty in more detail so stay tuned for that.

So, what’s the bottom line?

I’d say this is definitely a window model that was designed to be cheap, but it’s not always sold at cheap prices. If you can find a nice low price it could be a fine deal, but Provia windows are often sold at higher prices. If you’re getting a quote in the $600+ per window range I’d say you can probably find a better value somewhere else.

When shopping for windows I do always suggest finding a great installation company before you fall in love with any particular window model. There are plenty of great window options out there but not as many local companies that are great to work with.

To find our recommended window companies all over the country check this section. If we know someone in your neck of the woods they’ll be listed there and they’ll be happy to help.

If we don’t know anyone local to you be sure to let us know who you find. I’m sure you’re not the only person looking.

Remember, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies in your area right here. There’s no need to work with a company that gives you the run-around or makes the process difficult. There are plenty of fish in the sea as they say. The best way to get started is to check out our list of great window companies.

Harvey Tribute Windows Reviews

If you’re looking for Harvey Tribute windows reviews you’ve come to the right place. Here we’ll be looking at this “top of the line” window model from Harvey to see if it’s worth the price.

One thing you’ll notice when looking at any “top of the line” window model is that the claims made by the salespeople can be pretty special. That’s often the case with the Tribute window as well and the claims are sometimes a little silly.

You’ll probably want to start by assuming there’s really not much special about this model.

How efficient are Harvey Tribute windows?

As you can see above, Harvey offers 4 main glass packages with this window model. That’s a pretty limited selection, but they are decent choices. The Harvey Tribute window is available with a higher SHCG package meaning it lets in more heat from the sun. This one is called Sungain HSHG.

The Tribute windows are also available with triple pane glass and with Krypton gas too. That’s called Thermalock 3X. Options like Krypton gas will be the most expensive options. When considering the price or the value you’d want to consider how much an option like that is actually doing for you. The answer might be not very much.

That means the windows can be pretty efficient, depending on how they’re ordered, but there’s nothing unique or special about the efficiency options available.

When it comes to air infiltration for the Harvey Tribute window they say it’s between 0.01 and 0.07 which is pretty typical for nicer windows. That is better than a lot of lower end windows, but it’s not unique to Harvey. I’d say there’s nothing special going on there.

How about the hardware and mechanisms in the Harvey Tribute window?

To their credit, Harvey does use upgraded hardware in this window model. It’ll come with the block and tackle balance mechanisms that we often recommend. This is an area where many manufacturers will cut corners but Harvey is using the nicer hardware type.

What about the Harvey Tribute warranty?

The warranty for Harvey windows is not as great as the warranties you’ll see from other companies. You get a 20 year warranty on the glass, which is a long time, but not as long as other companies offer.

It’s important to realize you get no labor warranty from Harvey and they don’t cover the installation at all. Usually only smaller installers are offering most Harvey window lines. You’ll want to decide how comfortable you are that the installer will come back if you have a problem a month or a year after the windows are installed.

Having no labor warranty means that even if the windows failed and the failure was covered by the warranty you still might be paying someone else to fix the problem. That’s sub-optimal as they say.

What’s the bottom line?

The Harvey Tribute window is a decent model, but there’s not much that’s too remarkable about it. You’ll often see higher retail prices for a model like this. That will often mean it’s not a great value.

The efficiency options are pretty limited. The color options are pretty standard and the warranty leaves a little to be desired.

Harvey bought the Soft-Lite window brand a while back. I’ve thought their idea was to use the Soft-Lite brand as the higher end model and the Harvey brand as the more middle of the road product line.

If that’s the case, they’re doing ok. In my opinion the Harvey Tribute window is probably not the best value around, but certainly not the worst either.

When shopping for windows I do always suggest finding a great installation company before you fall in love with any particular window model. There are plenty of great window options out there but not as many local companies that are great to work with.

To find our recommended window companies all over the country check this section. If we know someone in your neck of the woods they’ll be listed there and they’ll be happy to help.

If we don’t know anyone local to you be sure to let us know who you find. I’m sure you’re not the only person looking.

Remember, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies in your area right here. There’s no need to work with a company that gives you the run-around or makes the process difficult. There are plenty of fish in the sea as they say. The best way to get started is to check out our list of great window companies.

The Best Window Company in Cincinnati – Window Universe

If you’re looking for the best replacement windows in Cincinnati you’re in luck!  My company, Window Universe, serves the entire Cincinnati area offering some of the best replacement windows around and sliding patio doors in town.

See instructions below to receive 25% off your order. All of our readers in Cincinnati qualify. Note this offer is only for customers in Cincinnati area.

If you’re looking for the easiest possible way to get great quality products and service I would be happy to personally help you with your order. As our company has grown I can’t help everyone with ever order anymore, but I always reserve time to work with the readers of this site.  I love staying in touch with folks and hearing directly from you about your project.  If you request information through the form on this page I will personally respond to help out.

Replacement windows Cincinnati, OH

How does this work?

Great question.  First of all, we’re not a typical window company.  The biggest difference you’ll see is that we don’t send salespeople driving all over town trying to “close deals”.   You don’t see in-home salespeople for encyclopedias anymore, and you don’t see too many still selling vacuums or knives either.  As the great Bob Dylan used to say, “times, they are a changin”.  We’re the future of replacement windows, not the past.

widow dog replacement windows
Here’s the window dog hard at work with us. He has to earn his kibble around here!

Everyone orders everything online now and windows are no different.  To get a quote and a free copy of our window price list just fill out the form at the bottom of this page.  I’ll get back to you with additional information and pricing.  From there we can make revisions and get your order moving along.

You don’t need to measure anything and you don’t need to deal with a salesperson sitting on your couch.  Our goal was to make this as easy as possible and I know you’ll enjoy it.

Does anyone want a commission based window salesman in their house?

I know I don’t. That’s why we send out the pricing and product info by email. We’ve taken the hassle out of replacing your windows.

If you’d like to get a simple quote for your project the process is easy. Complete the form on this page and we’ll be in touch with more info.

You can also find our website at WindowUniverseCincy.com for more info.

Best replacement windows in Austin TX from Window Universe.

How do I get 25% off my order from Window Universe?

That’s easy. Every reader of this site qualifies for this promotion. Just click any of the links on this page to check out the Window Universe Cincy site.

Once you scroll down you’ll see the 25% off promotion listed at the top of the page like this:

Then you fill out the form at the bottom of the page and they’ll email you their price list and additional information along with the 25% savings.

The form looks like this:

Then you’ll receive an email from a window expert with detailed information about the available options, the prices, efficiency ratings and more.

It’s designed to be easy because that’s what our readers are looking for.

Note: this offer is only available to customers in the Cincinnati area.

Do windows qualify for federal tax credits?

Yes. We offer a range of efficiency packages including options that qualify for the new federal tax credits. We can show you what those packages would cost, how they improve the overall efficiency and how much tax credit they would qualify for.

Who measures and installs the windows?

Another great question.  All of our projects in Cincinnati are professionally measured and installed by the manufacturer’s installation service.  This means that the window manufacturer will take the exact measurements and then handle the installation as well.  It’s a great way to make sure you get a quality result.

Which windows do you offer?

We offer a range of options in Cincinnati in an effort to provide a great option for most people.  We’ll have options with U-Factors as low as 0.18, Air Infiltration rates as low as 0.01, STC ratings as high as 34.  I could go on and on.  The point is we probably have the right option for you.

When you request your quote below feel free to give me some info as to what you’re looking for or what you’re comparing to.  It’s ok if you just want a decent option at a decent price.  Frankly, that’s what most people are looking for.  You don’t need to be a window expert, I have that covered.

Still have questions?

The easiest thing to do is to fill out the form below and get your free copy of our price list.  That way you’ll be able to see what is involved.  If you have questions just email me back and ask me.  It’s really easy.  Ultimately we’re not the right fit for everyone.  If I don’t think your project is right for us I’ll be happy to tell you.  My goal is to create happy customers, not to close deals.

Why doesn’t every company send out copies of their price list?

Ha, your guess is as good as mine.  I can only assume that if a company was proud of the value they offered they’d be happy to share their pricing. If they’re not so proud they may be a little reluctant.  If you’d like to see a copy of our pricing just fill out the form below and I’ll personally email you back with a suggestion or two and some detailed pricing info.  It’s the easiest way to order new windows.

Note: you will also receive the 25% off promotion when you use the form on this page.


Itemized Price List Request Form