Author: thewindowdog

Here you’ll find Simonton StormBreaker Plus reviews and information. The StormBreaker Plus model is an impact window meaning it’s designed to protect your home during a hurricane.

Impact windows can get damaged or destroyed during a hurricane, but they’re designed to keep projectiles, like a flying palm tree, from entering your home.

Like all impact windows this model will come with some downsides. For example, in the picture above you can see the big bulky tilt latches and the thicker frame.

These are design elements that will be common to basically all impact windows. They need to stand up to some strong forces so the windows need to be stronger than regular vinyl windows.

That means the thicker frames will block more light than a regular double hung window. In addition, the bulky tilt latches are a little ugly but not uncommon.

What are the advantages to the Simonton StormBreaker Plus reviews?

There are a few decent features that you’ll find in this model. First, the fact that these windows are made by a large national company is a great feature. Other impact windows, like PGT for example, are backed by much smaller companies and are therefore a risker bet.

Next, the StormBreaker model will offer a handful of efficiency packages which can include some nice options like Super Spacer in between the panes of glass.

Third, another benefit is that the laminated glass used in these windows will reduce sound transmission in addition to providing impact resistance. That means these windows will likely make your house quieter and that’s a nice feature.

In the graphic above you’ll see some common features that are included in this window. Things like a 1″ glass unit, laminated glass or reinforced sashes will be pretty common among most impact windows.

What are some downsides to the Simonton StormBreaker Plus windows?

The downsides to this window model will be similar to what you’ll see with most Simonton windows.

That means this model will use the cheaper constant force balances vs the nicer block and tackle balances that are used in higher end windows.

You’ll also see higher air infiltration rates with this model than other higher end vinyl windows.

In addition, the thicker frames I mentioned earlier will allow for less glass than you could get in a non-impact window from a different manufacturer.

What’s the bottom line?

While I’m not a huge Simonton windows fan in general I do think the StormBreaker Plus model can represent a decent value. That is because the options for vinyl impact rated windows is relatively limited and the option from Simonton can compare reasonably well.

If you need to have impact windows this one might be worth looking at.

What should you do if you think I’m wrong about something?

Post a comment below and let us know. It’s always our goal to post accurate info along with our opinions and I’m interested in your opinion as well.

Other posts about Simonton windows that you might find helpful:

• Simonton Windows Reviews
• Can you buy windows online?
• Simonton Impressions 9800 Series Reviews
• Window sales tactics
• How can you find a great window company near you?

How can you find a great window company?

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 know which companies to avoid you can find common window sales tactics here. That’s become one of the most popular sections on the site.

In addition, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies in 2023 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 here.

Find the best replacement window reviews online right here. 

Here you’ll find our Simonton Impressions 9800 windows reviews. If you’ve heard a sales pitch for this window model you have have some questions and we’re happy to help provide answers.

The salesman might have told you this is the best Simonton window and that’s sort of true. The trick is that Simonton is owned by Ply Gem and they also own several other brands including Great Lakes. Great Lakes tries to be the fancy brand so Ply Gem can’t make a Simonton window that is nicer than the Great Lakes models.

The result of this is that the nicer Simonton models, like the 9800 series, are ok, but not really as high end as the sales pitch may imply.

Let’s look at the main features of the Simonton Impressions 9800 windows:

First, they talk about making these windows look like wood windows. While there may be some value in this it’s generally not something I would put too much value in. The Simonton Impressions 9800 series windows are vinyl windows with some frilly details.

The downside to these details is that they make the frame thicker which means you get less light into the house. This is one aspect of replacement windows that people don’t often understand until it’s too late.

Next is the energy efficiency. Simonton will talk about the ProSolar glass packages and they’re perfectly decent. They offer argon or krypton gas, different types of low-e glass, even super spacer which can be a nice upgrade.

These are all options that are offered by basically every window manufacturer so they’re nice, but not at all unique.

What colors are available for the Simonton Impressions 9800 windows?

Beyond the usual white and beige colors that almost every company offers Simonton does offer a wider range of choices for the 9800 series windows.

The interior color options are pretty limited. White, beige and three woodgrain options are all you get.

The exterior color options are a little more interesting, but they still don’t offer a black exterior which is a very popular choice these days. The decision not to offer black seems a little strange to me.

What are the downsides to the Simonton Impressions 9800 windows?

The main drawbacks to this model are pretty simple. First, the frames are thicker which means they block more light.

Next, the air infiltration rates are higher than you’ll see on other models. That means the windows will let in more air when closed and locked. This is more and more important to customers and it’s strange to me that they haven’t fixed this issue.

Finally, they’ll use the cheaper constant force hardware vs the nicer block and tackle mechanisms that you’ll see on higher end windows.

What’s the bottom line?

At the end of the day this is an older model that is still trying to be fancy. It does have some decent features but I don’t think it represents a very good value. I think you can find a better bang for your buck with other replacement window options.

What should you do if you think I’m wrong about something?

Post a comment below and let us know. It’s always our goal to post accurate info along with our opinions and I’m interested in your opinion as well.

Other posts about Simonton windows that you might find helpful:

• Simonton windows reviews
• Simonton Asure windows
• Can you buy windows online?
• Simonton Reflections 5500 windows
• Window sales tactics
• Recommended window companies

How can you find a great window company?

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 know which companies to avoid you can find common window sales tactics here. That’s become one of the most popular sections on the site.

Remember, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies in 2023 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 here.

Find the best replacement window reviews online right here. 

If you’re looking for Alside 5100 sliding door reviews you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to look at this door to see if it’s worth the cost. This is one of the cheapest doors that Alside makes so it might not be the best value around. Let’s find out.

For starters we should make clear that the 5100 door is not the best option. If you’re looking for a nicer Alside sliding door you’ll want to look at the Promenade model or the 6100 model. Those will both be better choices.

What makes the Alside 5100 sliding door cheaper?

There are a few factors that contribute to the low price. First the frame on the 5100 model door is pretty flimsy. It’s thinner and not nearly as strong.

In the pictures above you can see the difference in the much weaker 5100 series door frame on top vs the much nicer door frame on the bottom.

The glass dimensions between the two models are about the same, but the structure is significantly different.

The frame of the 5100 door also comes assembled which makes it a hassle to transport. Other popular models will come with a knocked down frame so they can be easily and safely transported from the warehouse to the job site.

Are the efficiency options of the Alside 5100 sliding door any good?

Not really. Since this is a bottom of the line product they only offer bottom of the line options. The glass options are very limited.

In addition, the color options, hardware options and style options are all very limited as well. There’s no option for interior blinds either.

What’s the bottom line?

I would not suggest buying this door. It’s a super cheap door. If you’ve ever lived with an old or broken patio door you know it’s a really hassle. When you’re buying a new sliding door you want to get something decent.

When you’re trying to slide the door open with your hip while you have a drink in one hand and plate of burgers in the other you’ll be glad you have a better sliding door.

Other posts about Alside windows and doors that you might find interesting:

• Alside Promenade door reviews
• Alside Mezzo windows reviews
• What is the difference between Alside Climatech glass packages?
• Alside windows complaints
• Alside windows FAQ
• Can you buy Alside windows and doors online?

How can you find a great window company?

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 know which companies to avoid you can find common window sales tactics here. That’s become one of the most popular sections on the site.

Remember, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies in 2023 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 here.

Find the best replacement window reviews online right here. 

Alside Promenade Sliding Doors are produced for the eastern market and are often called the Alside 6400 door model. If you’re on the west coast you’ll want to look for the 6500 Promenade review. The 6400 vs 6500 doors are very similar.

In addition to the review we’ll also answer common questions about the Alside Promenade doors. If you have a question that isn’t answered just post a comment below and we’ll do our best to help out.

Why did Alside make the Promenade sliding door?

For many years Alside offered a different model of sliding door called the 6100 series door. That model was very popular with customers, salesmen and installers. When they announced the newer Promenade door nobody was quite sure why it existed.

I remember talking with the Alside factory salesman at the time and he wasn’t so sure why it existed either. Over time that became more clear.

The Alside Promenade sliding doors are available in a wider range of configurations including contemporary, classic and French styles. They’re also available with internal blinds and they have more hardware finish options. Basically it’s just a newer door with a newer design and more available options.

What is the difference between the Contemporary, Classic and French style?

This is the most common question we get about this door and the answer is easy. The difference is in the dimensions of the sashes. We’ll put some pictures below to illustrate the difference.

Just ignore the fact that these pictures are a little low-res. You should be able to see what we’re talking about. When comparing the pictures above, focus on the glass size and the size of the sash frames. The grids are different too, but that’s an option and not really relevant to the different frame styles.

You can see how the French style door uses the thicker frames with smaller glass area to look like a french door. This is a style Andersen used in sliding doors for many years and Alside started offering it a few years ago.

Is the price the same between the different styles of Promenade door?

No. The Contemporary will be the lower cost option with the classic and French styles adding to the overall cost. You’ll probably see the French style adding about $800 to the cost of the contemporary and the classic will be in between.

Are Alside Promenade doors available with internal blinds?

Yes. We have an entire post coming soon on the Alside doors with interior blinds. This option is available in the Promenade doors as long as you’re ordering a standard size. Blinds are not available in custom sized doors.

The blinds in these doors will raise and tilt and they have a 20 year warranty which is much better than the warranty you’ll see from most other manufacturers. That doesn’t necessarily mean the blinds will hold up better, but it means someone at Alside thinks they will.

Will Promenade doors qualify for federal tax credits?

They can. If you order a qualifying glass package the doors will qualify for the federal tax credits. The requirements for doors are less stringent than they are for windows so it’s easier to qualify. You can usually qualify with double pane glass while windows commonly need triple pane glass.

Alside does offer their fancy, and strangely capitalized ClimaTech PriME glass packages in the doors. If you order that package the glass in the door will match the glass in your windows. That’s nice, but it’s often not required to get the tax credit for sliding doors.

What sizes are available for the Alside Promenade doors?

The Promenade sliding doors are available in both standard and custom sizes. They can be ordered in 2, 3 or 4 panel configurations. The min size is 4′ wide x 6′ tall and the max size is 12′ wide x 8′ tall.

The standard sized doors will cost less and they’ll arrive much faster so it’s usually a good idea to use a standard sized door when possible.

In the picture above you can see the standard sizes for Promenade doors. Notice there are standard heights of 6’8″ and 8′. Newer houses will commonly have 8 foot tall sliding doors. They made this a standard height for this model which means it costs less than a custom door and it’ll arrive much faster. This is a great benefit to this model.

What’s the bottom line?

Overall this is a pretty solid door option. Sometimes installers don’t love it as there is a lot to assemble, but once they’ve installed a few it’s not a big deal. There are many hardware options, interior blinds are available and it’s covered by a lifetime warranty.

This is a door model that many people will be happy with and it’s one my company has offered with great success.

Other posts relating to Alside windows and doors that you might find helpful:

• Can you by Alside windows and doors online?
• Alside 6100 door reviews
• Mezzo window reviews
• Alside Patio Door warranty information
• Alside window complaints
• Who are the best window companies in your town

How can you find a great window company?

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. Not as many local companies are great to work with.

To know which companies to avoid you can find common window sales tactics here. That’s become one of the most popular sections on the site.

Remember, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies 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 here.

Find the best replacement window reviews on the entire internet right here.

If you’re considering an Alside 6100 sliding door you’ve come to the right place. Here we’ll be looking at the good and the bad of the popular 6100 model sliding patio door to see if it’s the right solution for you.

In addition, we’ll answer commonly asked questions about the 6100 sliding door and if you have more questions you can post a comment below. We read every comment and do our best to respond to as many as possible.

Let’s start with the history of the Alside 6100 sliding door

These doors have been around for a VERY LONG time which is not always a great thing. I started dealing with Alside in 2004 and the 6100 model was a popular door back then. That means as of today it’s about 20 years old and getting older every day.

There have been some improvements over the years but not many. Rather than improving the quality of this door Alside came out with the newer Promenade or 6400 / 6500 model doors a few years ago.

When the newer model came out there was talk that the 6100 door would be discontinued. I can only assume the reason they kept the old 6100 model, at the same cost as the newer model, is because people really liked it. Installers liked it, salespeople liked it and customers liked it.

Why do people like the Alside 6100 sliding door?

Customers tend to like this sliding door because it’s very easy to operate. When installed correctly it slides very smoothly and can be opened with very little force.

The air infiltration rates of these doors are also pretty good. You’ll find an air infiltration rating of 0.10 for the most popular sizes and that means you’re not likely to feel a draft through this door.

Installers like this sliding door model because it comes with a knocked down frame. This means it’s easy to transport because it does not come with a big bulky frame. The door will come in 4 boxes which can easily be loaded into a pickup truck. That might not be too important to the customer, but to the installer it’s a great feature.

This door also has a wood frame inside a vinyl covering. Some people want to avoid wood when replacing windows, but this isn’t really a huge concern. The wood is sealed behind the vinyl and it’s been a relatively trouble free configuration.

The salesman who is pushing this model will tell you the wood frame adds to the structural integrity of the door. In reality doors that are all vinyl are also very good so this wood doesn’t make a huge difference, but it’s also not something to be afraid of.

What are the other popular features of this model?

The other features that you’ll hear about from a window salesman are the composite rollers, aluminum reinforcement, the multi point locks and the optional door lock (also called a vent lock).

These features are nice, but also very common on many doors so they’re not very remarkable.

If this door is so great why is there a newer model?

This was the question everyone was asking when the newer 6400 door was released at the same prices. Even the Alside salespeople had a hard time explaining the reasoning for the new model.

Over time it was clear that the newer model could come in faster. In addition, the new model was all vinyl so there was no opportunity for competing salesmen to make the wood frame of the 6100 model into an issue.

The newer model would also be available in sanded 8′ heights vs the custom 8′ hight, with extended lead time, of the 6100 door.

The newer model was also available in different frame sizes including contemporary, classic and French style sliding door.

Many companies did switch to primarily offering the 6400 Promenade model. My company is included in that. I generally prefer to offer the newer product lines rather than products that were designed 20 years ago, but you do still see many companies offering the older 6100 sliding door model.

What sizes are available for the Alside 6100 sliding doors?

These doors are available in a range of standard sizes and custom sizes up to 12′ wide. The doors can be ordered in 2 panel, 3 panel and 4 panel configurations.

In a 2 panel configuration the door can be ordered with either side opening but when it’s installed one side will be fixed and one side will be active. The 3 panel door is only available with the center panel active. In a 4 panel configuration the two center panels both open by sliding to the sides and the two end panels are fixed. This can be a beautiful configuration if you have enough space for a 12′ wide door.

The min size of a 2 panel door is 4′ wide by 8′ tall. The max size of a 4 panel door is 12′ wide by 6′ tall. These doors will work great in most applications, but if you’re looking for stacking doors or an entire wall of sliding doors they may not be the best fit.

What’s the bottom line?

At the end of the day this door is perfectly nice. My company offered them for years and will still order them if a custom requests it. We’ve switched to the newer 6400 model is most cases since I like to stay up to date. Recommending a 20 year old model doesn’t necessarily make sense to me so it’s not a product my company recommends any longer.

If you’re asking my advice I’d say to get one of the newer models instead.

Other posts relating to Alside windows and doors that you might find helpful:

• Can you by Alside windows and doors online?
• Mezzo window reviews
• Alside Patio Door warranty information
• Alside window complaints
• Who are the best window companies in your town

How can you find a great window company?

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. Not as many local companies are great to work with.

To know which companies to avoid you can find common window sales tactics here. That’s become one of the most popular sections on the site.

Remember, for more great window company info you can find our suggestions for the best local companies in 2023 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 here.

Find the best replacement window reviews online right here. 

Alside sliding patio doors can be a solid option. They offer a range of models from higher quality to lower priced. Here we’ll look at all of the Alside patio door models so you can see which models are great and which will leave something to be desired.

Fun fact: people call sliding doors doorwalls in Wisconsin. It’s true, and they think it’s normal.

Most of the options are referred to by model numbers but some will also have names like Alside Promenade. Find the complete list below and click on any of them to see the reviews and find more info.

Alside Sliding Patio Doors reviews:

• 6400 Promenade sliding door reviews – East coast only
• 6500 Promenade sliding door reviews – West coast only
• A170 sliding door reviews

Discontinued sliding door models

• 5100 sliding door reviews – Discontinued
• 5200 sliding door reviews – Discontinued
• 6100 sliding door reviews – Discontinued

We’ll also look at other topics relating to Alside sliding patio doors including:

• Which Alside sliding doors have internal blinds – including warranty info
• What is the best Alside sliding door model
• What is the Alside sliding door warranty
• Alside sliding door complaints
• Alside sliding door prices and costs

If you have more questions about Alside sliding doors or if you think we’re off base about anything please post a comment and we’ll get back to you.

There is a lot of info out there and we see window salespeople with incorrect or inaccurate information all the time. As a result the process of buying new windows and doors can be challenging to navigate and we’re always happy to make it as easy as we can.

Other posts relating to Alside windows and doors that you might find helpful:

• Can you buy Alside windows online?
• Alside Mezzo window reviews
• Alside Ultramaxx and Sheffield windows reviews
• Climatech glass packages and efficiency options explained
• Recommended contractors or installers

You can find our suggestions for the best local companies in your area right here. You may also be interested in reading through our many other detailed window reviews and you can find common window sales tactics right here.  Have fun!