The Appointment Saver Discount & Other Remodeling Scams

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?

best replacement windows of 2015

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. 

Stanek Windows Reviews

Stanek windows was a small local manufacturer in the Cleveland area until they were purchased by Great Day Improvements the owners of the Patio Enclosures brand.  Now they are sold throughout the country by Patio Enclosures stores and under the Great Day Improvements brand name.  If all of these brand names sound a little confusing it’s because they are.  There is a lot of marketing in the replacement window business.  We’re going to skip all of that to focus on our reviews of Stanek windows.

We’ve known Stanek windows for a long time.  When they were an independent company they had a reputation for high prices, high pressure sales and quality products.  Now that they are part of the larger company the sales tactics and the prices seem to have stayed the same.

best replacement windows of 2015

What’s good about Stanek windows?

Stanek windows use the upgrade block and tackle balances which is a nice feature and it demonstrates their desire to produce a quality product.

A major drawback of the Stanek windows are their thickness.  The have very thick frames which lead to a significant amount of light being blocked out of the home.  This is an older design and it’s not found in most newer models.

stanek windows reviews
Here is a clip from the Stanek Windows website. It’s a bad sign when companies make untrue claims like this one.

One thing that really bugs us about window marketing is the silly claims that some companies make.  Stanek windows says on their website that no other windows can match the performance of their ULTRAXTREME windows (see pic above).  There are clearly 3 things wrong with this statement:

  1. Lots of windows match their performance
  2. It’s rude to talk in all caps like that even when you’re trying to be XTREME.
  3. Using an X for extreme hasn’t been cool since the late ’90’s

We’ll have our detailed Stanek windows reviews online soon including pictures and product details.  If you’re considering Stanek windows you should read through our other replacement window reviews along with our detailed info on replacement window sales tactics.

What’s the bottom line?

I would probably avoid Stanek windows.  Not because the windows are horrible, but there’s just no good reason to work with them. In my opinion you’ll find a better solution from a larger manufacturer.

What if I have more questions about Stanek windows?

We can help!  Find our Stanek windows FAQ page here.  If you don’t see the answer to your question post a comment and we’ll answer your question for everyone to see.

Looking for any additional information on Stanek windows that you’re not finding here?  Post a comment and let us know.  We’ll be glad to help out!

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.

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 right here. Whether you’re in North Texas or around the country we can probably help with a recommendation.

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.

Accu-Weld Windows Reviews

Accu-Weld windows were offered for years in the area surrounding their plant in Pennsylvania. They were typically sold on price as a rather inexpensive offering. When the economy went south in 2008 they suffered along with many other small window manufacturers.

Accu-Weld Pros

  • None

Accu-Weld Cons

  • They’re bankrupt, avoid at all costs

Accu-Weld Manufacturer Score = 0.0 Do Not Buy

Accu-Weld is bankrupt and out of business

The assets of the company were purchased and renamed Haddon windows in 2009, but that effort didn’t last long either.

Today we could barely find an old copy of the Accu-Weld logo to use in this post and last we checked the domain name haddonwindows.com is available for sale.

best replacement windows of 2015

Is there a warranty on Accu-Weld windows?

No. To the best of our knowledge the warranty vanished when the company failed. Unfortunately they used a relatively unique design that glazed the insulated glass into the sash itself.

The problem with this method is that it will be very difficult, or impossible, for a glass company to replace a broken or sealed pane.

That means if a window breaks or a seal fails the entire window might need to be replaced. That’s expensive and unfortunate.

We include this post for folks who might be searching for Accu-Weld windows due to a warranty issue and as a cautionary tale about what can become of small manufacturing companies.

We often suggest that folks consider the size of the manufacturing company they are considering when making their purchase. Of course a large company could go out of business as well, but of the many recent failures in the windows business including Kensington, Accu-Weld, Gorell, Republic, Schuco and more only one was a company with any real size.

What replacement window companies should you consider today?

For more info on window manufacturers that do still exist take a look through the best replacement window reviews online here. It’s always our advice to start by finding a great local company to install the windows and then talking with them about the options they recommend.

That is a much better strategy than falling in love with a window manufacturer only to find out the local dealer isn’t a great company to work with. We see people do that every day and it’s the hardest way to buy new windows.

You can find our recommend local window companies here.

Schuco Windows Reviews

The story of Schuco windows in America is a great cautionary tale for anyone considering a replacement window project.  Schuco is a large German manufacturing company.  They produce all sorts of products all over the world.  Several years ago they decided they were going to get into the replacement window business in the US.

To get started they produced a very nice looking window and local contractors all over the country were sold.  The type of contractors who do a lot of writing online went on and on about how fantastic these windows were.

best replacement windows of 2015

What happened?  One day Schuco decided the replacement window business in the US was too competitive, they couldn’t make the profit that they wanted, and they closed down.  Now all of those folks who listened to the hype and selected these windows are completely out of luck when it comes to warranty service or replacement parts.

You can tell the internet buzz was strong for these products in their hay day.  We still get calls in to our office every once in a while from folks asking if we carry Schuco windows because they’ve read online that these are the greatest replacement windows ever produced.

What’s the moral of the story?  Don’t believe the hype.  As someone who sold windows to local contractors on a wholesale basis in my past life I can tell you it’s relatively easy.  Many (but not all) supposed window “experts” are easily swayed by a new feature or a shiny brochure.  The seem to completely miss the fact that the definition of a great window isn’t just a pretty product.

For a window to be a great product it needs to have the whole package including a great warranty and the support of a company that is experienced in the business.

Schuco windows reviews
Here’s an ad for Schuco windows. Sounds great except they’re gone now and if you bought them before you’re out of luck.

Schuco was missing that curtail ingredient.  Many local contractors got sold and many homeowners got stuck holding the bag.

I would expect that many of these local contractors would now admit that it was a mistake to jump on the bandwagon with new and unproven product right out of the gate.  Unfortunately it’s easy to find examples of many of these contractors doing the same thing again.  They jump right onto the next bandwagon with the next “hot” product.  Hopefully we don’t see the same thing happen too many more times, but Schuco surely won’t be the last.

Be sure to note the owner and the experience level of the manufacturer when considering replacement windows.  We try to include this info in all of our reviews to help folks avoid a Schuco windows situation.  Find the best replacement windows reviews online here.  

Kensington Windows Reviews

Update: This post contains some info about Kensington Windows and Kensington HPP which are 2 companies that sound very similar, but are not legally related.  If you’re shopping for new windows or are looking for service for windows that were installed since 2013 this is not the right page for you.  You can find our page about Kensington HPP that started in 2014 here. 

Below is the post I wrote back in 2014 with some updates about the difference between the 2 companies.  For the most up to date info use the link above.

Kensington windows are produced in western Pennsylvania.  They produce 3 main lines of vinyl replacement windows that are available for sale in the surrounding area.

The name Kensington has been around since the 1970’s, but they filed bankruptcy in 2008.  This left all of their past customers with no warranty which can turn into a real problem.  You can find more info about that situation here.

After the bankruptcy, the company was purchased by Serious Energy in 2009 and reopened.  After a few years Serious wanted to get out of the business and the company was sold again to a group of longtime Kensington managers in 2013.  They are a relatively small manufacturer with only one 100,000 sqft manufacturing facility in Vandegrift, PA.

None of this means that Kensington isn’t capable of producing fine products, but it is worth considering as you’re purchasing products with a very long warranty.  The folks who bought windows called Kensington in 2008, before the bankruptcy, thought they were getting a product with a lifetime warranty and they’re now out of luck.

We’ll be posting detailed reviews on the following new Kensington HPP models:

  • Quantum2
  • Huntington
  • Kingston – 300 Series

If you’re considering Kensington windows for your home you may want to get quotes from some other local window companies as well.  There are a whole range of options out there to choose from.  You can find detailed reviews on many other popular window options here.

Remember, while the names are similar the Kensington HPP or Kensington High Performance Products windows that you can buy today are not produced by the older company called Kensington Windows the went out of business in 2008.  The names are similar, but they not the same companies.

Revere Berkshire Windows Reviews

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.

Should I buy these windows now?

You can’t buy these windows anymore.  The current product options are the Amherst Plus window which is very similar to the old Berkshire and the newly redesigned Berkshire Elite option.  Find reviews on these and other popular models here.

Revere Amherst Plus Replacement Windows Review (2025 Update)

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 TypeInstalled 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.

If you’d like a more accurate estimate for your area, check out our guide on how much replacement windows cost in 2025.


Pros and Cons of Revere Amherst Plus Windows

Let’s break it down simply:

👍 Pros

  • Affordable pricing for the quality
  • Energy-efficient glass packages available
  • 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/ModelPrice RangeWarrantyNotable Feature
Revere Amherst Plus$550–$850Lifetime limitedStrong value
Alside Mezzo$650–$900Lifetime transferableTighter air seal
Gentek Signature Elite$700–$950Lifetime transferableSlightly higher energy ratings
Pella 250 Series$800–$1,100Limited lifetimeBrand recognition
Andersen 100 Series$900–$1,20010-year limitedComposite 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:

  1. Get multiple written quotes from at least 2–3 local companies.
  2. Compare the exact model names and glass packages.
  3. Ask for a detailed installation warranty.
  4. 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.

To get started, take a look at our list of the best window companies by state and find a local installer who offers clear pricing and a good reputation.

With a little research and patience, you’ll get a great product, a fair deal, and windows that make your home more comfortable for years to come.

Revere Amherst Windows Reviews

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.

Revere Amherst replacement windows
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.

Find more reviews of Revere windows here and other brands here.

Revere Berkshire Elite Windows Reviews

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.

best replacement windows of 2015

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.

revere berkshire elite windows reviews
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.

berkshire elite design options

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:

best replacement window balances

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.

revere window sill design
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.

Find more detailed Revere windows reviews here.

The Best Replacement Windows – Choosing an Installation Company

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.

Take a look through our pages on replacement window reviews and common sales gimmicks for more detailed info.

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.