Every day we are blown away by the growth of this site. We wanted to take just a minute to say thanks to our fantastic readers.
This site was started as part of a news years resolution to help make this business easier for folks to navigate. We first went online (with a little help from a friend) on Jan 4, 2014. Since then we’ve been working hard to post all sorts of behind the scenes window info and the feedback from readers has just been great.
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.
We certainly were surprised to see we had over 10,000 readers in July and we’ve continued to break daily traffic records into August. At this growth rate we could potentially have over 250,000 readers in 2015. That’s just crazy!
We’re certainly not done producing great content. In addition to hundreds of new window reviews that will be coming online soon we also have setup a top secret Window Dog test lab. Our inventory of window samples is growing by the day and we have some fancy new video equipment to bring you all of the latest info.
Soon we’ll be posting detailed videos on common window features along with real world tests to help you decide what is worth the money and what is a bunch of hot air. For example, we’ll be testing glass options and spacer systems very soon. In addition, we’ll be adding detailed video reviews and side by side product comparisons to illustrate the differences between various products.
So, if you have any window related questions that aren’t yet answered be sure to post a comment and we’ll do out best to address it. We read each and every comment and try to respond to as many as possible.
If you’re interested in continuing to learn more about windows be sure to bookmark the site and things are only going to keep growing around here!
Thanks for coming by and we really do appreciate you!
It’s easy for folks to hear salesperson after salesperson say their windows have a “lifetime” warranty. You can get used to hearing it and you might start to think that they’re all the same.
On the other hand, companies that offer more limited warranties will try to explain why a shorter warranty is better. They’ll say that a lifetime warranty is actually only good for a few years (which is not true and they probably know it). Why would they do this? Because nobody would buy their products if they couldn’t explain why the warranty was so short. Renewal by Andersen is a great example of this one.
Here you can see the very short warranty offered by Renewal by Andersen. Why would they offer a warranty this short?
This is a 2 year warranty on installation, 10 years on the oh so fancy Fibrex frames. That is a REALLY short warranty.
Update: Renewal by Andersen has since updated their warranty and it’s now 20 years on the frames. Perhaps they took our advice! It’s still shorter than what you’d get from a lot of other companies, but 20 years is a pretty long time.
We also hear from customers that they don’t want to depend on a warranty so they want to pick a quality product that they think will hold up. Of course picking a quality product is a great strategy, but in discounting the warranty they’re ignoring a crucial data point indicating the quality and anticipated lifespan of the product.
Here’s the deal. Brochures and flyers are written by salespeople. Warranties are written by lawyers and engineers. There’s a big difference.
The warranty on any window or door product is a direct indication of how long the manufacturer actually expects the product to hold up. If they offer a long and comprehensive warranty they’re telling you they are confident that the windows will last. If they offer a shorter or more limited warranty they are directly saying that they think the product may fail after that point.
Think about it this way: a shorter warranty will absolutely result in fewer sales. The manufacturer knows that some percentage of their potential customers will thoroughly read the warranty and if it isn’t as good as their competitor the customer will buy elsewhere. Why then would one company offer a warranty that is more limited than their competitor? Remember, they know doing this will result in lower sales. They do it because they have to. They do it because they know that some percentage of their products will fail after those limitations run out and they don’t want to be on the hook for the repairs.
So what are the differences between different window warranties?
You’ve probably seen that most decent replacement windows offer some type of “lifetime” warranty. That’s absolutely true, but as with most things, the difference is in the details. When it comes to warranties the differences can be huge.
Here are 5 common differences:
Labor coverage – You’ll see a lot of “lifetime” warranties, but when you actually read them the labor is only covered for a limited period.
There are also 2 types of labor to consider. There is the labor of the installer who did the initial work, and then there’s the labor of the service technician who comes out to replace a defective part. Are they both covered? Is one limited to 1 year or even completely excluded? They may be. If the service labor is limited who is going to repair a broken window or replace a damaged balance? How much will it cost?
Remember the Renewal by Andersen example above. 2 years of warranty on installation. Many companies cover these items for as long as you own the home. That’s a BIG difference.
Glass breakage coverage – Do you know how much it can cost to replace an insulated glass unit? Remember, these aren’t the old single pane windows you might have had growing up. A new sealed glass unit can easily run $100 – $200 for a typical replacement window and the labor can double the total cost. We recently got a quote to repair a broken window from a local competitor to make sure we knew what the competition was charging. It was over $400 for one piece of glass in a typical double pane window. That’s real money.
Here is a clip from the Simonton Prism window warranty. You can see the insulated glass warranty is prorated overtime, but the glass breakage warranty is solid for 25 years.
This is the warranty for the Simonton Prism line. Their other lines have different warranties so be sure you know what you’re getting.
Some companies offer a glass breakage warranty to everyone they do business with. Some offer it at an additional cost and others don’t offer it at all. When you’re considering a window project it’s important to know what you’re getting.
When you hear that baseball go through the window you’ll be glad you know what you picked!
Hardware & moving parts – As you get a few quotes and look at window samples you’ll quickly see that there are hundreds of choices and they all use slightly different bits and pieces. That’s not a problem, except when you need a new lock 10 years down the road. How will you get one that matches the rest of the windows in your home?
Some companies cover the hardware, balances and all moving parts for as long as you own the home and some limit that coverage to just a few years. This is an important distinction.
Screen coverage – We frequently see warranties that exclude screens. Screens aren’t expensive, but the frames tend to be proprietary so you may have trouble getting a replacement down the road.
Screens are really easy to fix or replace so any company interested in taking care of their customers after the sale will have no problem covering screens. A company that excludes screens is telling you that they don’t want to hear from you once your check clears.
Coastal coverage – This one can be important. We recently read a window warranty from Ideal Windows that defined coastal as being within 1 mile of any tidal body of water. Right now I’m easily a 2 hour drive from the beach, but I’m less than a mile from a tidal river. I grew up in Chicago, less than a mile from Lake Michigan, which has tides. Both of these locations would be considered coastal under that definition and as a result the warranty would be extremely limited.
This is a clip from the Ideal Windows warranty. Is your home “coastal” under this definition? It might be.
I can guarantee you my family in Chicago doesn’t consider their home to be near the coast. Someone in that position might skip right over a section on coastal coverage and they would be out of luck if they have a problem down the road. Maybe I like reading these because I have several lawyers in my family, but the devil is in the details.
As you can see from these basic examples (we could go on all day) there are HUGE differences in the warranties of replacement windows. We know it is REALLY dull to read the fine print of a window warranty. It only takes a few minutes and we can guarantee you it will be time well spent.
If you remember any one thing remember that a more limited warranty results in lower sales. Why would a company offer a warranty that results in lower sales? Because they have to. Because they know their products won’t stand the test of time.
This is a HUGE data point and you’ll be remiss to overlook it.
Have a question about a specific window warranty? Post it here and we’ll dig into the details. We really do love this stuff.
You signed up for a free in-home quote for a remodeling project and as things are wrapping up the salesperson hits you with a “special” discount if you would just sign on the dotted line right now.
You remember very clearly that they told you the prices would be guaranteed for a year, but all of the sudden the high price is good for a year and the lower price is going to expire when she walks out the door. What’s the deal with that?
If you remember noting else, remember that this type of pricing scheme is a sure sign that you’re getting a bad deal.
Think about it this way: this salesperson does this for a living and she knows much more about the pricing than you do. If she was sure that what she was offering was such a great deal then she would be confident that you could think it over and you would certainly call her back to get this great deal. Why would she come up with a strategy to get you to sign up without considering your options? Because she knows it’s not a good deal.
Of course she can’t tell you it’s not a good deal because she gets paid commission and that would be a bad strategy. So what does she do? She comes up with a way to justify this short term discount.
The appointment saver discount is nothing more than a justification for manipulative pricing. She will tell you that if you buy now while she’s already there it will save her the trip back to sign paperwork later. She’ll tell you all of her customers call her back because she’s got the best deal in town and she ends up visiting everyone twice.
She might tell you that her accountant told her that if she could only visit each customer one time it would allow her to meet with twice as many people which would double the size of her business. It would be worth offering a substantial discount to double the size of her business right? Wrong.
This is a complete bunch of junk, but believe us when we tell you there are companies out there telling this story to unsuspecting homeowners all across the country tonight.
Remember when you’re hearing all of this that they explain these stories for a living. She does this every day so she’s probably pretty good at it. She’ll have an answer for everything and she’ll sound reasonable. That’s her job.
If you tell her you’ll fax the paperwork after you think it over she’ll say she needs the originals.
If you tell her you’ll mail the originals in a week or two when you’re ready she’ll say the rebate ends today.
If you tell her you’ll drop the forms off at her office she’ll tell you they need your order today to meet their quota. Next week will be too late. Of course she may not have an office, but that’s a story for another day.
As you’re hearing all of this remember that nothing in the window business changes on a daily basis. The ONLY reason they create pricing schemes like this is to separate you from your money.
Do you really think that if you call her up next month and tell her you want to go ahead with the project she will tell you tough luck? Of course she won’t. She’ll probably be pretty surprised as nobody ever calls her back, but you won’t either after you get a few more quotes.
We know getting quotes for remodeling projects can be a hassle and you may just want to be done with the process. We have seen folks pay $5,000 – $10,000 more for a project than they needed to because the salesperson told them they needed to sign up right now to get a great deal.
Everyone says, “oh, I’d never fall for that”, but these companies do millions of dollars per year in business. Someone does fall for it each and every day.
If you hear about an appointment saver discount, or a manufactures rebate, or a quota, or a managers special, just thank them for their time and call the next company on your list.
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.
Note: The Revere Berkshire windows have been discontinued. Revere has removed some features from the old Berkshire window and renamed it the Amherst Plus window. They have replaced the Berkshire window with the completely new and redesigned Berkshire Elite window. You can read our review on that new model here.
The Revere Berkshire windows were the most popular replacement window ever produced by Revere Building Products. They sold hundreds of thousands of Berkshire replacement windows over the years. The window combined many features found in more expensive products with the simple clean lines that Revere widows are known for.
Why was the Revere Berkshire window discontinued?
Time stops for no man (or replacement window). The Revere Berkshire windows just got a little long in the tooth. There have been some innovations in the replacement window business and Revere needed to keep up. Newer windows were using true sloped sills and non-metallic reinforcement. The newer replacement windows were achieving slightly better efficiency ratings including better air infiltration ratings. If Revere wanted to continue to offer a top tier replacement window option they needed to change.
What about the Revere Berkshire window warranty?
One of the benefits of working with a large company like Revere is that you can be pretty confident that they’re going to be around for the long haul. The fact that they retooled the Berkshire window to create the new Amherst Plus window is a great sign for past customers.
This means all of the equipment needed to product parts for the older Berkshire windows is still in the plant. Revere has set themselves up to be able to honor their warranty obligations for many years in the future with no problem at all. This is a great sign for past customers.
If you’ve been researching replacement windows for your home, you may have come across the Revere Amherst Plus series. IMPORTANT NOTE: This model has recently been rebranded as the Gentek Concord Plus window. The product is 100% the same. These vinyl replacement windows have been around for years, and they’re often promoted as an affordable, reliable option for homeowners who want decent energy efficiency without paying top-tier prices.
But are they really a good value in 2025? How much should you expect to pay? And how does the Amherst Plus stack up against other windows on the market?
Let’s take a deep dive into Revere Amherst Plus replacement windows—covering pricing, warranty details, energy performance, design options, and more—so you can decide if they’re the right fit for your home.
What Is the Revere Amherst Plus Window?
The Amherst Plus is a budget friendly vinyl replacement window made by Revere Building Products, a brand under the Associated Materials (AMI) umbrella. AMI also manufactures well-known brands like Alside and Gentek, which gives Amherst Plus a solid pedigree in the vinyl window world.
The goal of the Amherst Plus line is to offer affordable energy efficiency for homeowners who want a step up from entry-level products without moving into the premium price range.
In other words, these windows are designed for value-conscious homeowners—people who want reliability and a good warranty, but who don’t necessarily need every top-end feature.
Revere Amherst Plus Key Features
When you compare vinyl replacement windows, it’s important to look beyond just the price tag. The Amherst Plus includes several features that make it a solid choice for many homes:
Fusion-welded frame and sash for long-term durability
Double-pane insulated glass unit with optional Low-E coatings
Warm-edge spacer system to reduce condensation and improve efficiency
Multi-chambered frame design for added insulation
Tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning
Reinforced meeting rails for strength and security
While the construction quality is solid for a mid-range window, it’s not built to compete with top-tier models like Revere’s own higher end options like the Sovereign or Berkshire Elite series, which include more advanced glass packages and structural reinforcements.
Energy Efficiency and Performance Ratings
Energy performance is a big selling point for homeowners in 2025. The Amherst Plus includes options that allow you to customize efficiency depending on your budget and climate.
Here’s what to expect:
U-Factor: Around 0.29 – 0.32, depending on glass package
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Typically 0.28 – 0.32
Air Infiltration: Approximately 0.10 cfm/ft², which is average for this class
If you upgrade to Low-E glass with argon gas fill, you can expect a significant bump in insulation value, which may qualify for local or federal energy efficiency incentives, but this model will not qualify for the 2025 federal tax credits for energy efficient windows. You’ll need to look at other options to receive that credit.
For homeowners in colder climates, Revere also offers glass packages that meet ENERGY STAR® requirements in most U.S. regions.
Design and Style Options
Revere Amherst Plus windows are available in most common replacement window styles, including:
Double-hung windows (most popular)
Sliding windows
Casement and awning windows
Picture and fixed windows
Bay and bow configurations
Frame Colors and Finishes
You can choose from several standard exterior and interior color combinations. The standard white vinyl interior is the most common, but beige and light oak laminate finishes are available in some markets.
Custom exterior colors are limited compared to higher-end models, which is one area where the Amherst Plus shows its budget-friendly roots.
Hardware and Screen Options
The hardware on the Amherst Plus is functional and simple. You’ll find standard cam locks, tilt latches, and integral lift rails—all in color-matched finishes.
Screens are available in fiberglass or BetterVue® high-visibility mesh, which offers clearer views and better airflow. These are small upgrades that can improve your day-to-day experience.
Revere Amherst Plus Warranty
One of the most appealing aspects of the Amherst Plus is its limited lifetime warranty.
Revere offers a transferable warranty that covers:
Vinyl frames and sashes against manufacturing defects
Insulated glass units against seal failure
Hardware components for functional issues
The warranty also includes glass breakage coverage in some regions, depending on your dealer.
It’s important to note that labor is not always covered, so if you’re comparing companies, be sure to ask whether your installation warranty matches the manufacturer’s coverage.
For more details, you can review Revere’s warranty information directly on their official site. I linked the Alside warranty site here as they use the same warranty department.
Revere Amherst Plus Prices (2025 Estimates)
Pricing for replacement windows can vary significantly based on location, size, installation type, and upgrades—but here’s what you can generally expect in 2025:
Window Type
Installed Price (Approx.)
Double-Hung
$550 – $850
Slider
$600 – $900
Casement
$700 – $1,000
Picture
$400 – $700
Bay/Bow
$2,000 – $4,500
These prices assume standard professional installation and include Low-E/argon glass in most cases.
For comparison, premium windows like Alside Mezzo or Gentek Signature Elite often cost 10–20% more, while entry-level models from lesser-known brands might be slightly cheaper but with reduced warranty coverage and performance.
Solid warranty coverage from a trusted manufacturer
Easy to operate and clean
Good option for budget-conscious homeowners
👎 Cons
Limited color and design customization
Average air infiltration rating (not the tightest seal)
Not as quiet or strong as premium options
Some dealers use high-pressure sales tactics—compare quotes carefully
Revere Amherst Plus vs. Other Window Brands
When comparing Amherst Plus to similar models, you’ll find it lands in the mid-range of the vinyl window market.
Here’s how it stacks up:
Brand/Model
Price Range
Warranty
Notable Feature
Revere Amherst Plus
$550–$850
Lifetime limited
Strong value
Alside Mezzo
$650–$900
Lifetime transferable
Tighter air seal
Gentek Signature Elite
$700–$950
Lifetime transferable
Slightly higher energy ratings
Pella 250 Series
$800–$1,100
Limited lifetime
Brand recognition
Andersen 100 Series
$900–$1,200
10-year limited
Composite frame
As you can see, the Amherst Plus remains a competitive option for those looking for solid performance without overspending.
How to Get the Best Deal on Revere Windows
Here’s the truth: the best price doesn’t always come from the loudest salesperson.
Many national window companies use “today only” discounts or “manager specials” to pressure homeowners into signing contracts right away. Don’t fall for it.
Instead:
Get multiple written quotes from at least 2–3 local companies.
Compare the exact model names and glass packages.
Ask for a detailed installation warranty.
Avoid “neighborhood discounts” or offers that expire tonight.
We’ve written about these tactics before—check out our post on today-only window prices to see why patience pays off.
Is the Revere Amherst Plus Right for You?
If you’re planning a window replacement project in 2025, the Amherst Plus remains one of the best value windowsavailable for homeowners who want:
Reliable energy performance
A brand backed by a major U.S. manufacturer
Fair pricing from reputable local installers
It’s not a luxury window, but it’s dependable—and when installed properly, it can perform beautifully for decades.
If you want to compare Revere’s higher-end options, the Berkshire Elite and Sovereign lines might be worth exploring, especially if you want more style choices or enhanced insulation.
Final Thoughts
The Revere Amherst Plus continues to hold its place as a smart, mid-range vinyl replacement window in 2025.
It offers strong value, solid warranty coverage, and dependable performance for the price. Just remember: the best results always come from proper installation and working with a trustworthy company—not necessarily from the cheapest quote.
Note: If you’re really looking for Revere Amherst windows reviews in 2021 you’re getting bad window advice. The Revere Amherst windows have been discontinued for a number of reasons. One of which is that they weren’t very nice windows. If you’ve met a contractor that is suggesting them you should probably find another contractor who knows more about windows.
Revere Amherst windows are the bottom of the Revere window line. They were designed to be an inexpensive replacement window used for remodeling projects. While they succeeded in being inexpensive, they are not a very great option.
Here is a cutaway view of the Revere Amherst window.
The biggest drawback to the Revere Amherst windows is the method of construction. Instead of welded corners which are found on just about all windows these days the older Revere Amherst windows still use mechanically fastened or screwed together frames.
This means the frame is able to twist and flex more than a newer welded window. It also opens the door to leaks as the corners of the window are not necessarily weather tight.
What’s good about the Revere Amherst windows?
While I may be sounding a little negative there are a few highlights when looking at the Revere Amherst option. First, they use the upgraded block and tackle balance mechanism found in other Revere replacement windows. The balance mechanism is the part that allows the window to open and close and this type is better than the inexpensive “constant force” or coil balances used in many other windows.
They also feature standard metal reinforcement in the sashes which is something that competitors often charge extra for. This reinforcement is placed at the bottom of the top sash and the top of the bottom sash (at the middle of the window) which is the weakest point. They reinforce the structure to help these windows stand up to the wind and rain.
How about the Revere windows warranty?
Another good point is that the Amherst windows are covered by the same warranty as all Revere windows. This is a pretty strong warranty and it’s backed up by Revere’s parent company, Associated Materials, Inc. This means you not only get a good strong warranty, but you also get one that will likely stand the test of time.
How about the cost of the Amherst windows?
This is where they lose me. Based on the info I was given the wholesale cost difference between the Revere Amherst windows and the much nicer Revere Berkshire Elite windows is only about $15 per window. If you’re considering new windows for your home and you’re not willing to spring for an extra $15 to get the much nicer Berkshire Elite windows then you just might be beyond help.
At the end of the day the Revere Amherst window was designed to be a cheap option. It’s cheap alright, but not cheap enough to justify all of the sacrifices.
Update: While this Revere Berkshire Elite window review was originally written several years ago it’s been updated in 2021 as we continue to work to provide the best replacement window information on the entire internet in 2021 and beyond. See info towards the bottom of this post for the most recommended window companies in 2021. Be sure to post a comment or send us a message with any questions!
If you’re considering Revere Berkshire Elite windows we sure hope you’ll appreciate this review. The Revere window line is distributed through a network of professional installers across the country. They are available on the east and west coast with specific products for each market. Our Revere Berkshire Elite windows reviews will go through the features, warranty, cost, and drawbacks of this popular new model.
The Revere Berkshire Elite windows are a new model that replaced the older Revere Berkshire window. While this new model shares a similar name it is an entirely new window. This new model addresses many of the shortcomings that were present in the older Revere Berkshire windows.
A common misconception in the window business has to do with the parent company of Revere Building Products. Several years ago Revere was bought by Associated Materials Inc. They’re a holding company that owns several large building products manufacturers. They own Alpine windows on the west coast, Gentek windows in Canada, Alside windows in the US and Preservation windows also available across the US.
Revere windows fill a unique spot in the stable of products produced by AMI. They’re available all across the US, but mostly through large window installation companies rather than distribution centers that sell windows to any contractor with a pickup truck. Revere does this to ensure that only established companies offer their products. This helps them keep their warranty costs down as the windows are typically installed well.
Our favorite feature when it comes to the new Revere Berkshire Elite windows is the large glass area. This is a common theme in our reviews because it directly relates to how you’re going to enjoy the new windows. Revere Berkshire Elite windows allow for a very large glass area while still maintaining great efficiency ratings. This is a combination that many other manufactures have not been able to accomplish.
Notice the large glass area of the Revere Berkshire Elite window
Notice the dramatic effect of the larger glass area. Many replacement windows use these thick frames that dramatically reduce the amount of light (not heat) that enters the home.
The Berkshire Elite window is designed to be a high end window. It’s available in 9 exterior colors and 9 interior finishes. This is a pretty extensive selection for a replacement window. While most folks pick white or beige windows the finish options for nice vinyl windows are much more beautiful than they used to be.
A major advantage to the Revere Berkshire Elite windows is the upgraded balance mechanism that they use. The block and tackle balance system in these windows is tested to last 2.5 times longer than the less expensive constant force or coil balances that are used in many replacement windows. Revere is certainly not the only company to use these nicer balances, Okna, Sunrise, Thompson Creek and Stanek windows also use these high end balances. Many other manufactures such as Alside, Soft Lite and Simonton still use the older and less expensive coil option.
Here are the drawbacks of the coil or constant force balances as listed in a promotional piece produced by Associated Materials. Remember this is a parent company of Alside, of of the largest companies offering the less expensive coil option:
It’s pretty clear which type the nicer windows out there use. The Revere Berkshire Elite only use the block and tackle balance system.
There are two more great new features relating to the sill at the bottom. The sill is a true sloped sill which means it does not use weep holes to drain water. This is the way most new windows are designed, but many older design still drain water through the frames.
The welded sloped sill drains water to the exterior.
What about the screens?
One similarity the Revere Berkshire Elite windows share with the Alside Mezzo windows is the high quality screen. They both share a heavy duty extruded screen frame that resists bending and twisting. It’s a heavy duty product that is warrantied for as long as you own your home.
Most other companies offer a flimsy roll formed screen as their standard product with a heavy duty screen as an option. With Revere you get the nice screen every time. It may sound like a small feature, but it goes to show you how seriously they take the quality of their products.
What about the efficiency?
The Revere Berkshire Elite windows can have great efficiency ratings depending on how they are ordered. They are available with many types of glass coatings, spacer systems and gas fills that all affect the ratings. For example the Revere Berkshire Elite window can easily meet or exceed the 2015 Energy Star guidelines for all regions of the country with double pane glass. Most of the other window designs require triple pane glass options to hit these levels.
UPDATE: Triple pane glass is now available in the Revere Berkshire Elite window and it’s become a very popular option. They offer several triple pane glass packages in this model with SHGC ratings as low as 0.17 and U-Factors as low as 0.21. If you’re considering this window model, triple pane glass is an option you may want to consider.
How much do Berkshire Elite windows cost?
The cost of these windows can vary widely based on the options you select, the complexity of the installation and the company offering them. Basic white double hung windows typically run in the $500-$700 per window range including installation. Some companies will charge more and some less so make sure you’re comfortable that you’re getting a fair price before moving forward with your replacement window project.
You will find that Revere windows will likely be available from a small number of companies in your area. This is the case with many nicer windows. If you don’t like the company offer them or if you’re not comfortable for any reason just move on. There are plenty of great windows out there so if you can’t find something you like when it comes to these just pick another brand.
How about the Revere Berkshire Elite window warranty?
The warranty on these windows is pretty strong, but generally similar to warranties offered by many high end window manufactures. For example the window frames and hardware are covered for as long as you own your home. They cover the seal in the insulated glass and even the screens as well. Be aware that a glass breakage warranty is available, but it is not standard so the company doing the installation will need to include it. If you don’t have that in writing you probably don’t have it so it’s worth double checking.
What are the drawbacks of the Berkshire Elite windows?
The limited distribution can be a drawback of the Revere windows. If the company that offers them in your area is great then you’re in great shape, if not you’re out of luck. Don’t sweat that too much. If you don’t like the local company for any reason just find another product. There are plenty of great windows out there.
So you’ve picked out the best replacement windows for you, but how do you evaluate the installation company? This half the battle as having great replacement windows installed by a less than great installer will ruin your day.
The first step is the easiest: read our page on common replacement window sales tricks. These will not only help you avoid getting hoodwinked, but they will help to identify which companies are planning on treating you well BEFORE you bother meeting with them.
For instance, if a company requires both homeowners to be present you know you’re in for a sales pitch. This isn’t something you should plan on enduring. It should be used as a sign to avoid that company all together. Just cross them off the list and move on. There are plenty of great companies in your area and you absolutely do not need to deal with that kind of junk.
Once you have these companies crossed of your list it’s time to do a little research. We’re not talking about spending every waking minute worrying about windows, but an ounce of prevention goes a long way…
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.
Once you have narrowed things down to 3-5 companies have them come out to take a look through the project and give you an exact quote. If anybody gives you the runaround just send them on their way and move on to the next company.
We know this sounds like basic advice, but people get pressured into on gimmick or another every day.
Once you find a great company to install your great windows you’ll be sure you have the best replacement windows in your neighborhood.
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 model home windows program is one of our favorite window sales scams. If you’ve ever seen the movie Tin Men with Danny DeVito and Richard Dryfus you know this one. The fact that this trick is still frequently used has always surprised me. As is the case with all of these window maneuvers they wouldn’t still exist if people didn’t buy them so watch out!
The basics of this maneuver come back to the idea that if a company wants to sell you something at a price above the market price they need a way to entice you to make an irrational decision. The irrational decision in this case is to pay more for something than you need to.
Now remember, paying more than you need to doesn’t refer to a comparison with the absolute cheapest company in town. When you buy a remodeling project you’re buying the quality of the products, the quality of the service the strength of the warranty, etc. All of these things have value and they’re all worth something. When we say these companies are trying to entice you to pay more than you need to we mean after factoring all of these components into it, they’re still charging more than their competitors.
How can I be sure these companies are trying to charge you more than their competitors would?
Because it’s not my first day in this business…and also because they’re lying to you.
Remember we started this post talking about the model home discount. This is when a company offers to sell you their products and services for an incredibly low price so they can use your house as an example of the great work they do. They’re expecting all of your neighbors to see how great your house looks and they’re expecting to sell your neighbors windows too.
This sounds like a real win-win situation. You get great new windows. You know they’re going to do a great job because they want to show off their work at your home. They’re only offering this deal to one house in the neighborhood so you’d better sign up now to take advantage right? NO. This is never a good deal.
In reality they’re telling you this because it’s a good story. They need to get past the universal human tendency to be cautious. You see we evolved over millions of years to be leery of risky situations. This is how we as humans survived all these years. Now they want you to sign a contract and fork over thousands of your hard earned dollars without so much as a google search? Forget about it. You’ll never do it….unless it’s a really fantastic deal.
You see these companies know that another universal human tendency is to LOVE a great deal and to HATE missing a great deal. You love telling your friends about that great shirt you found at TJ Maxx or the steal of a deal you found on the clearance rack, right? How did I know that? Because everyone loves that. It’s human nature. In this case the remodeling company is attempting to use one tendency to overcome the other.
“I wouldn’t fall for that” you’re probably saying. I know, of course you wouldn’t. Nobody in their right mind would over pay for some sales scam. Surprisingly these companies do millions of dollars in business each and every year. People are going for it every day. Nobody every buys something because they think it’s a bad deal. These companies do a great job explaining it and you ‘re left thinking you got the deal of the century. My what a great consumer you are!
Just remember, a model home discount is NEVER a good deal. The price offered today will still be good tomorrow or the next day or the week after that. If you compare your options and decide that you liked that first company then go for it, but don’t let them talk you into signing up on the spot. You should also remember that if they take the deal next week (as I guarantee they will) then they’re telling you that all that talk about model homes was a lie. Do you really want to work with a company that started out by lying to you?
I wouldn’t recommend it.
In extreme cases we’ve even heard these companies telling you to keep the prices secret so your neighbors don’t know what a great deal you got. You know the real reason they want you to keep the price a secret? Because your neighbor got the same price as you or maybe even better.
The big takeaway? As soon as you hear a company tell you that you’re getting a great price because they want to use your home as a model for the neighborhood just picture Danny Vevito and Richard Dryfus in your front yard yelling about putting your home in Better Homes and Gardens as the “before” house. Don’t be that sucker.
Here we’ve compiled our old reviews for discontinued Alside window models including:
Alside Excalibur
Sheffield
Ultramaxx
Centurion
Geneva
These models are gone but not forgotten. If you have any of these windows in your house you may be interested in the Alside window warranty and you can find info on that on our Alside windows page along with reviews of models that are still available.
If you’re looking for an Alside window that you can’t find listed anywhere it may be a private label window created for a specific contractor. Post a comment about it and we’ll be happy to help you make sense of it.
Now on to the old reviews.
Alside Excalibur window review
The Alside Excalibur window was the most popular window produced by Alside for many years. Millions of these windows have been installed all across the country. The Alside Excalibur window is slated to be discontinued in 2014 and replaced by the newer Alside Mezzo window.
The Alside Excalibur window has been a popular option because it meets the needs of most homeowners at an affordable price. This window came with standard features that we’re available options on competing models.
Standard features on Alside Excalibur windows:
Double strength glass
Heavy duty screen frame
Steel reinforced sashes
DP50 rated for strength
Sloped sill
Despite the list of standard features, the Excalibur window was often criticized online. This had a lot to do with the fact that it was sold by Window World under the Comfort Word 4000 brand at very low prices. This made the competition offering similar products at higher prices uncomfortable.
Not all criticism of the Alside Excalibur was unfounded. The design was a little past its prime and several elements were due for an upgrade. In addition the manufacturing tolerances weren’t as tight as they could have been which led to inconsistent quality.
What about the Alside warranty?
The warranty from Alside was always pretty solid and that was certainly the case with the Excalibur windows. The warranty covers the glass seal, the windows and the hardware for as long as the original purchaser lives in the home and it is transferable when the house is sold.
Alside Sheffield Reviews
Here we’ll be taking a look at the Alside Sheffield windows. The Sheffield windows used to sit near the top of the Alside window line. Very similar products are sold under various brand names including Alside Ultramaxx and Comfort World 6000 series. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a better window than the Alside Excalibur or the Alside Mezzo (their other common offerings), but it does mean it will likely cost more.
In comparison to the newest window in the Alside line, the Alside Mezzo window (which we reviewed recently), the Sheffield doesn’t compare very well except in a few specific situations. For example, the Alside Sheffield window is available with triple pane glass while the Mezzo window was not when initially launched. The Mezzo window now has this feature available so that leaves one less reason to buy the Sheffield model. Obviously this only matter to you if you’re a triple pane kind of person.
Another point of differentiation is the fact that the Sheffield window has a few extra pieces of weather stripping. This sounds good and the salesperson might tell a great story, but if you compare the air infiltration ratings you’ll see the Mezzo is typically better. This tells you the extra weather stripping on the Alside Sheffield isn’t doing you much good. It provides the salesperson a nice story to tell, but it doesn’t do much else.
The biggest drawback in my mind is that the Alside Sheffield window uses a much thicker frame which reduces the glass area considerably. If you’re looking at samples in person take a look at the thick frame, especially the sill, and decide if that’s what you want in your home.
Alside Sheffield vs Ultramaxx
The Alside Sheffield and the Alside Ultramaxx share the same frame and ALMOST all of the same parts. There are only 2 two differences between these 2 products. One is the type of sill. The Sheffield uses a sloped sill that allows water to run off and the Ultramaxx uses a pocket sill that drains water out through weep holes in the frame. There are advantages and disadvantages to both systems.
The Alside Sheffield and Ultramaxx models are almost exactly the same product.
The second difference between the Sheffield vs the Ultramaxx is the lift rail on the sash. The Sheffield has a lift rail at the very top and at the very bottom. The Ultramaxx adds another in the middle of the window. Having trouble visualizing what I’m saying in this section? Don’t sweat it, these two windows are essentially the exact same product with different names.
To sum up the Alside Sheffield review I’ll say if you’re getting triple pane glass it’s a fine option. If you’re not this window does’t really make sense and you’ll be better off saving a few bucks with the Alside Mezzo.
Alside Ultramaxx Reviews
For our Alside Ultramaxx window review we’ll compare the Ultramaxx to the other Alside window products. The Ultramaxx windows sit near the top of the Alside window line. Very similar products are sold under various brand names including Alside Sheffield and Comfort World 6000 series. When we say they sit near the top of the line that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a better product than anything else, but it does tend to cost more than some other products out there.
When comparing and reviewing Alside windows, the Alside Mezzo window (which we reviewed recently) stacks up pretty well. The Ultramaxx doesn’t compare very well except in a few specific situations. For example, the Alside Ultramaxx window is available with triple pane glass while the Mezzo window was not available with this option when initially launched. The Mezzo model does now offer this option so there’s one less reason to pick the Alside Ultramaxx window.. Obviously this only matter to you if you’re interested in triple pane glass.
Another difference is in the weatherstripping that the Ultramaxx window comes with. This sounds good and the salesperson might tell a great story to go with it, but if you compare the air infiltration ratings you’ll see the Mezzo is typically better. This tells you the extra weather stripping on the Alside Ultramaxx isn’t doing you much good.
One important factor to consider is that the Alside Ultramaxx window uses a substantially thicker frame which reduces the glass area considerably. If you’re looking at samples in person take a look at the thickness of the frame, especially the sill at the bottom. Only you can decide if that’s what you want in your home, but it will reduce the visible glass area and reduce the visible transmittance rating.
Alside Ultramaxx vs Alside Sheffield
The Alside Ultramaxx and the Alside Sheffield share the same frame and ALMOST all of the same parts. There are only 2 two differences between these 2 products. One is the type of sill. The Ultramaxx uses a Pocket sill that allows water to run down through the frame and the Sheffield uses a sloped sill that lets water run down and out. There are advocates for both designs, but at the end of the day they’re pretty similar. Even the Sheffield here doesn’t use a true sloped sill, but perhaps that’s a discussion for another day.
Alside Geneva Windows Reviews
The Alside Geneva window is a bit of a strange bird. It’s a hybrid unit that has welded sashes and a mechanically fastened frame. This is a bit of an unusual design. In fact, we’re not aware of another window still on the market that is built like this.
The pitch for the Alside Geneva window was that the mechanically fastened frame allows it to be more easily installed in old out of square openings while the welded sashes provided the strength needed.
Here’s a glamor shot of the Alside Geneva windows.
In reality it’s just an old design that is on it’s way to the glue factory. The Geneva window, along with the Alside Centurion window are being discontinued and replaced with the Alside Fusion window.
This is a worthwhile change as the Geneva window was long past its prime. These older windows have still been sold recently with a rather large following in Boston for reasons that can’t really be explained. Regardless, the end of the Geneva window won’t disappoint too many people.
