Soft-Lite Imperial LS Windows Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How about the Soft-Lite Imperial LS warranty?

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

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

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

 What’s the bottom line?

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

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

So, how should I decide who to work with?

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

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

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

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

How can you find a great window company?

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

Other posts you might find interesting:

Provia ecoLite Windows Reviews

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

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

Provia ecoLite windows reviews, warranty and price.

Why you should not get Provia ecoLite windows in your house

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, what’s the bottom line?

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

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

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

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

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

Provia Aspect Windows Reviews

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

Provia Aspect windows reviews prices and warranty.

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

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

What about the Provia Aspect features?

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

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

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

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

What are the color options?

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

Provia Aspect colors, prices, cost and warranty information.

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

What about Provia Aspect prices?

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

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

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

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

Provia Aspect Super Spacer and pricing information.

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

Is the Provia Aspect warranty any good?

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

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

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

So, what’s the bottom line?

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

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

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

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

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

Harvey Tribute Windows Reviews

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

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

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

How efficient are Harvey Tribute windows?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What about the Harvey Tribute warranty?

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

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

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

What’s the bottom line?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preservation Window Complaints – Is something wrong?

Preservation windows were designed by very savvy marketing folks. They’re intended to be sold by some of the highest priced replacement window companies in the country. They’re produced by one of the largest replacement window manufacturers in the country too. So why might you find Preservation window complaints online? The answer is pretty simple, mostly.

The cause is similar to some of the other manufacturers we’ve discussed. A common thread in Preservation window complaints has to do with the pricing. The sales tactics used by some of the door to door type salespeople can leave a lot to be desired.

This product line was developed by Associated Materials with the specific intention of being sold through the highest priced dealers around. Typically they’ll only offer them through one dealer in each city. Limited distribution is usually not great for customers but it might have an upside or two. Now if you’re a window dealer and you’re trying to sell products for a premium price this could be a good thing. If you’re buying windows it might not be so great.

A window contractor selling high priced windows will have his work cut out for him. He’ll typically need to tell some fancy stories. He’ll also often be a little tricky with the pricing to get people to buy. This isn’t unique to the window industry or to Preservation windows. It’s just a fact.

When you give customers tricky pricing and sales claims you’re likely to make some people unhappy. That’ll lead to Preservation window complaints.

Preservation windows complaints, price, warranty and cost.

Are Preservation windows good enough to justify the price?

This one is a little tricky as each individual dealer or contractor will set the retail pricing. It’s always possible that someone could offer a fair deal but you’ll usually see higher prices than might be warranted.

In general Preservation windows do use some higher end components. They’ll have things like upgraded balance mechanisms and non-metallic spacers in the insulated glass units. You might hear about fiberglass reinforcement or a sloped sill. Unfortunately for them it’s perfectly possible to find the same type of higher end components in most cost effective windows. As an example, my company tends to offer a much better value for very similar products. So, I know it can be done.

You can find more information on Preservation windows including info on the price, warranty and cost on our Preservation window review post right here.

Are Preservation windows good quality windows?

Sure, they’re perfectly nice but really not that remarkable. For example, according to the manufacturers data a Preservation double hung window has an air infiltration rate of 0.10 which is around 2.5x higher than another popular model made by the same parent company that my company offers.

They’ll also use thicker frames that block a little more light than other models. For some people this is a big deal, others don’t care too much.

The brochures, iPad demos and all marketing information for Preservation really are top notch. They do a great job of presenting the products and trying to justify the prices. In my mind they’re often not the best value around. They’re not a product I would buy for my house but different people make different choices.

Are Preservation window dealers all bad?

Defininltey not. I’ve known several of them over the years. There are perfectly nice companies offering Preservation windows. There are also not so great companies using the limited distribution of this product line to charge a premium price. For example there’s one Preservation window dealer in the Pacific Northwest that I’d suggest staying away from based on his interaction with my company over the years but that’s a story for another day.

So, how should I decide who to work with?

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

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

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

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

The Best Window Company in Cincinnati – Window Universe

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

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

Replacement windows Cincinnati, OH

How does this work?

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

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

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

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

Who measures and installs the windows?

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

Which windows do you offer?

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

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

Still have questions?

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

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

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

Cheers!

Dan “TheWindowDog” Schweihs


Itemized Price List Request Form

What happens next?

You’ll receive an email with the following info:

Window brochures and product details

Efficiency ratings and tax credit information

Itemized window price list

Showroom address and hours

Project pictures and customer feedback

Much more

If you’re considering a window project you’ll want this information.

The Best Window Company in Kansas City – Window Universe

If you’re looking for the best replacement window company in the Kansas City area you’re in luck! My company, Window Universe, serves the entire Kansas City area offering some of the best replacement windows around.

Online prices for replacement windows in Kansas City. It’s Easy.

This is the easiest possible way to get energy efficient windows for your home.

  • Prices by email
  • No measuring required
  • Showroom available
  • No spam, no phone calls, no hassles

The Window Universe system explained

How does this work?

We’re not a typical window company. We don’t send salespeople driving all over town trying to “close deals”. Does anyone really want a commission based window salesman sitting on their couch? I know I don’t.

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

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

You don’t need to measure anything and you don’t need to deal with a salesperson sitting on your couch. Our goal is to make this as easy as possible.

What do our customers have to say?

Here’s an example:

Who installs the windows?

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

Replacement window installation available in Kansas City.

Which windows do you offer?

We offer a range of replacement windows in Kansas City in an effort to provide a great solution for most people. We’ll have options with U-Factors as low as 0.18, Air Infiltration rates as low as 0.01, STC ratings as high as 34.  We have a window option for just about everyone.

When you request your quote below feel free to give us some info as to what you’re looking for or what you’re comparing to. It’s ok if you just want a decent option at a decent price. Frankly, that’s what most people are looking for.  

Still have questions?

The easiest thing to do is to fill out the form below to get your free copy of our price list. That way you’ll be able to see what is involved. If you have questions just reply to our email and ask. It’s really easy.

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

Your guess is as good as ours.  I can only assume that if a company was proud of the value they offered they’d be happy to share their pricing. If they’re not so proud they may be a little reluctant.  

If you’d like to see a copy of our price list just fill out the form below and we’ll send an email with a suggestion or two and detailed pricing info. It’s the easiest way to order new windows.

Step 1: We’ll email you our price list

No spam, no phone calls, no hassles.



Itemized Price List Request Form

What happens next?

You’ll receive an email with the following info:

Window brochures and product details

Efficiency ratings and tax credit information

Itemized window price list

Showroom address and hours

Project pictures and customer feedback

Much more

If you’re considering a window project you’ll want this information.

Renewal by Andersen Complaints – What’s going on?

If you’ve been shopping for replacement windows you may have come across Renewal by Andersen. Their ads can be all over the place and everyone has heard of the Andersen windows brand. You may have also come across Renewal by Andersen complaints and that’s not too usual.

There are a few reasons any larger window company will have occasional complaints. We’re written about Alside window complaints and Simonton window complaints before. Some of the factors discussed there definitely apply to Andersen too.

You will find that Renewal by Andersen complaints are often a little different for a couple reasons.

renewal by andersen complaints and warranty and prices

First, they’re very expensive and very tricky with the pricing

When you read feedback from folks who have received a quote for Renewal by Andersen windows a very common thread will be that they used very tricky pricing strategies. They often will use an iPad that will show you a price.

The first price will be very high. If you buy it they’ll gladly take your money. If you don’t they flip the iPad around, work some magic, then flip it back with a lower price.

Don’t buy that and the iPad will keep flipping around and the price will keep going down. It’s like magic.

Of course it’s not 1970 so basically no products are sold like this anymore except for home improvement products. It’s weird and it makes people unhappy.

Don’t believe me? Check out comments on the Renewal by Andersen review page we wrote a while back. The comments there, especially the comments from Renewal by Andersen salespeople and people who have received quotes, are my absolute favorite part of the site.

Does tricky pricing mean the windows are bad?

Not necessarily, but it might be a warning sign. I should say I think the Renewal by Andersen windows are perfectly nice products. There’s nothing inherently wrong with them and they look beautiful.

Notice, the issue that most commonly causes Renewal by Andersen complaints is not the products or the installation. It’s the sales process. If this sales process makes people unhappy you would have to wonder why they do it. That’s the question.

renewal by andersen complaints and reviews and warranty

Why would a company use a sales process that makes customers unhappy?

Of course they don’t tell me why they do things so all I can do is make an educated guess. I think it’s because they know many people wouldn’t buy the windows if they were clear about the prices.

It seems to me that the only reason a company would use a sales process like that is because they know that without it people wouldn’t buy. Then you’d think, why wouldn’t people buy if the pricing was more clear? The only answer I can think of is that they’re not a very good deal. People are smart. People don’t buy bad deals. Unless they’re really talked into it.

So, the fact that they seem to use this sales strategy all over the country tells me that they know they don’t offer a very good value. They need to show you some crazy price like $100k for new windows so you can flip out, then they can lower the price to $70k and then the super special price of $50k seems a lot more reasonable.

If they had started at $50k you would have thought that was ridiculous and then they’d have nowhere to go, they’d loose the sale and their commission salesperson would be going hungry that night.

Should you buy Renewal by Andersen windows?

That’s totally up to you of course. I tend to think they’re pretty overpriced for what you get but different people value all sorts of things differently. I think they’d only make sense in a very fancy house.

Even then I tend to think I’d pick real wood windows over imitation wood windows for a very fancy house. So, they take a certain level of house fanciness. Fancy enough to justify windows that might cost $2,000 each, but not too fancy for imitation wood.

Obviously lots of people buy them and if lots of people weren’t happy they’d probably change their strategy so there’s no reason to think there’s any issue with the products themselves. The sales process seems to be the biggest problem most people have. If you can stomach that you’ll probably get perfectly fine windows.

Other Andersen window posts you might find helpful:

So, how should I decide who to work with?

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

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

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

Other posts you might find interesting:

Provia Window Warranty Review – Endure & Aspect

Is the Provia window warranty any good? Let’s find out! Here we’ll look at how Provia plans to stand behind their products both for owner occupied houses and for rentals or commercial properties. Hint: there’s a pretty big difference.

For starters, we’ll talk about the warranty for their most popular product lines the Provia Endure and the Provia Aspect windows. Then, we’ll cover the Provia ecoLite and Aeris window warranties in a future post.

Provia window warranty for Endure and Aspect windows.

Jumping right into it, you’ll see Provia offers a pretty standard “lifetime warranty” for these windows, but there are some important limitations to be aware of. If you’re wondering how long a lifetime warranty really is, we’ll tell you here.

First, the lifetime part of the lifetime warranty refers to the time that you own and live in the house. That’s important because if you rent the house one day the warranty will change.

What parts of the Provia windows are covered for my lifetime?

Not all of them and that’s worthwhile to understand. The Provia window warranty states that the vinyl structure, the insulated glass unit and the hardware are guaranteed for life. That’s pretty good as some companies will have shorter limitations on the hardware, but most cover the frames and glass.

You do also get a lifetime warranty on glass breakage and the screens are covered too but you should note that torn screens are not covered. That’s also pretty standard. No company covers ripped or torn screens anyway.

What are the Provia window warranty limitations?

It’s a common window salesman line to say that whatever warranty they’re offering is “unlimited”. If anyone told you that you should show them the door because that’s not how warranties work.

There are many limitations to the Provia window warranty. For example, the warranty wouldn’t cover damage caused by fire, windblown objects or lightening. That’s all pretty common as your homeowners insurance would cover that stuff.

Interestingly they also don’t honor the warranty if the windows are installed in ships or vehicles. So, don’t put them in your mobile home or yacht.

Perhaps more relevant, the warranty on the blinds in the glass is only for 10 years. That’s not very long especially for an expensive option.

Also, the painted finishes are covered for 15 years on vinyl windows and 10 on wood windows.

So, there are definitely limitations. The biggest limitation is for rental houses.

What is the Provia window warranty for a rental house?

It’s not great. If you’re renting your house now or if you might rent in the future this could be a big deal. The coverage is limited to 5 years for the windows, 10 years for the insulation glass, 1 year for the hardware, and there’s no glass breakage coverage at all. There’s also no labor coverage to fix an issue.

Ultimately by offering such a short warranty for rental houses, or any house owned by a business, church or organization, they’re telling you that they don’t want that business.

This makes sense since they’re usually priced high enough that a landlord wouldn’t by these windows anyway, but it’s something to be aware of.

Do they cover labor under the warranty?

No, there’s no labor coverage at all. That means if there’s a problem down the road that is covered Provia will ship you the parts but you’re on your own to get it fixed. That might be expensive, especially if the dealer you bought the windows from has vanished. That happens more than you might expect.

You may see that the dealer offers their own labor warranty. That can be great, but you’d want to get it in writing and then you’re still taking the gamble that they’ll be around down the road.

You’d also want to confirm in writing that their labor warranty covers repairs of a manufacturing issue. They might just be talking about their installation labor which will still leave you out of luck in certain circumstances.

What’s the bottom line?

I’d say the Provia window warranty is pretty unremarkable. You’ll find the same or better warranties from most of the nicer manufacturers out there so there’s really nothing special about this one. The lack of any labor coverage and the severe limitations on rental houses mean this is probably at the back of the pack when compared to some others out there.

That doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy Provia windows, but when comparing your options the warranty probably doesn’t help their case.

For more detailed window reviews including many warranty reviews check this section. You can also find info on common window sales tactics here and you can find our list of recommended window installation companies here.

Have fun!

The Best Window Company in New York – Window King!

For years we’ve been hearing from readers asking for a recommendation for the best window company in New York.  I’m happy to recommend my friend Nick and his company, Window King.

Window King is the best window company in New York

Who is Window King?

They’ve been serving the Tri-State area for decades with great results.  They operate the same way that my company does by offering great products at great prices without all of the sales hype that some companies feel is necessary.

The company was started by Nick’s mom 26 years ago in the very same location where they operate today.  You don’t find that kind of longevity from a lot of window companies these days.

When we started talking about working together on the site I was encouraged by the way their business philosophy fits so well in to what your readers are looking for.  Of course after being in the industry for decades Nick knows how the other guys are operating and he knows how to make his company stand apart.  Now, Window King works with us and supports the site both financially and with the great content we’re working to provide.

Here what one of their customers says about them:

This was the second time we have used Window King, they have replaced 11 windows in our home. They are courteous, professional and punctual. The windows were installed perfectly and they cleaned up all of the debris. They beat all estimates & do a great job. 

How do I reach them?

If you’re in New York, Long Island or anywhere in the Tri-State are you’ll want to reach out to them to see how they can help.  You’re going to love what they have to offer.

There are 3 easy ways to get more information:

  1. Give them a ring right now at 718-792-5989
  2. Send them an email info@windowking.biz
  3. Fill out the form below and they’ll be in touch

However you reach out, be sure to tell them TheWindowDog sent you and they’ll take great care of you.