ThermaStar by Pella Series 10 Windows Reviews From Lowes

The ThermaStar by Pella Series 10 window is a new construction vinyl window and it offers a great way to illustrate the differences between new construction and replacement windows.

It’s not a fantastic window, but it is widely available.  This model is distributed at Lowes stores all over the place.  We bought one at a store in Northern Virginia and you can probably find one at a store new you too.

We’ll get deep into the physical and philosophical differences between a new construction window and a replacement window in a future post.  For now, here’s what we mean by new construction.

new construction vinyl window
You can see the nail fin in this picture. The nail holes are circled in green.

If you can see past my poor artwork, the nail fin is the part that sticks out all the way around the perimeter of the window.  This fin goes behind the siding or prick on your home.  It’s easy to install a window like this when  you’re building a home, harder when you’re remodeling an existing home.

You’ll also notice this is a single hung window.  That means the bottom opens up and down, but the top is fixed.  The top section does not move, it does not tilt in for easy cleaning, it doesn’t really do anything at all.  That is common with new construction windows and it’s a way they keep the costs down.

 

What’s good about the ThermaStar by Pella Series 10?

Well, it’s not expensive and that’s good.  We found a pretty good selection of sizes at our neighborhood Lowes store.  I bought a smaller on for this example because I was going to put it in the trunk of my car.  The size of this one is 23.5″ x 37.5″ and it cost me something like $115.  It includes grids in between the panes of glass and a full screen.  Bigger windows do cost a little more.

A window “expert” might tell you why they don’t like this window (I will too), but everyone will agree that it’s not expensive.

Ok, it’s inexpensive, what else is good about it?

Here’s one you may not have expected.  It’s pretty energy efficient.  This is the NFRC sticker from the window I bought.

Thermostat by Pella Series 10
These are the efficiency ratings for the ThermaStar by Pella Series 10 new construction window.

You can learn more about window efficiency ratings here, or you can take my word for it.  These ratings are pretty solid.  It has a decent U-Factor, good Solar Heat Gain Coefficient for the area and a reasonable Visible Transmittance rating.  Overall, a solid performer, especially considering the price.

What’s not so good about the ThermaStar by Pella Series 10?

A cynic might say that everything is bad about a window like this, but I’m really trying to keep an open mind in dealing with products like this so I’ll be specific.

First, buying windows from stock sizes is risky.  As you’d expect Lowes stocks a range of sizes, but they’re not likely to have every exact size you need.  If you’re building a shed and you can cut the hole to match the window, but if you’re installing windows into an existing hole in y our house these might not fit right.

You can do your best to make them fit by modifying the opening, but you’re likely to end up with something that doesn’t look great or doesn’t seal as well as you might like.  If you’re considering buying windows from Lowes you’re likely pretty handy, but the result might not be what you’re looking for.

Next, the finishing just doesn’t seem to be too great.  As you can see in the picture here, the welds are HUGE.

Thermostat by Pella Series 10 quality
Notice the giant weld in the corner of the ThermaStar by Pella Series 10 window.

The lack of attention to finishing touches like this is common on many inexpensive new construction windows.  It is not specific to the ThermaStar by Pella Series 10 window.  It is ugly and if you’re going to be living in this house for years to come details like this may be important to you.

Next, the screen is really flimsy.  It comes with a half screen that is fixed in place.  You may or may not prefer a screen that slides up and down, but this screen doesn’t move at it feels flimsy.

Thermostat by Pella Series 10 Screen
Here you can see the flimsy screen and the weep holes on this ThermaStar by Pella window.

We could go on and on about why this is a cheep screen, but we’ll spare yo the details.  If you get these windows just be really careful with them.

In the above picture you’ll also see the weep holes in the bottom of the frame.  It’s that rectangular hole in the bottom center of the picture.  That is a channel for water to get out.  It’s a bit of an older design, and they have the opportunity to get clogged or filled up with junk.

So what’s the bottom line?

Well, if you decide this morning that you want to install some new windows in the shed you’re building this afternoon these would be an easy and cheep way to get the project done.

If speed and price are your two driving factors you might want to go for it.  If you’re looking for a great fit and great quality you can probably find a better value in a nicer custom made window without braking the bank.

For now, you can take a look through the rest of our window reviews here or if you have a great suggestion for a future Pella window review or window related article just post a comment right here.

 

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 Windows Reviews

Update: While this Revere Amherst Plus 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!

The Revere Amherst Plus windows are one of the newer replacement window options from Revere Building Products.  The Amherst Plus windows occupy the lower end of the replacement window offering and they use a slightly old fashioned design.

First off, it’s completely ok to consider a lower end window option.  Maybe you’re moving soon, or renting the house, or you’re just a little on the cheap side.  There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that and I can tell you I’ve been accused of being a little cheap myself.  As I’m sure you already know, when you’re going for a lower priced option you’re going to be making sacrifices.  It’s important to be clear on what those sacrifices are and how much you’re saving in return.  That’s the only way to know if you’re making the best move.

As you’ll see the actual wholesale cost difference between the Amherst Plus and the much nicer Berkshire Elite offering is pretty small.  If you’re thinking about Revere replacement windows you may get the best bang for your buck with the Berkshire Elite.

Basically the Revere Amherst Plus is a striped down version of the older Revere Berkshire window.  This window was the workhorse of the Revere window line for many years.  As the industry progressed it started to look a little dated.  Revere needed to upgrade that model in order to stay competitive.  To create the new Amherst Plus model they stripped out several features of the older Berkshire window and gave this new offering a fancy new name.

What are the differences?

Basically if you took the old Revere Berkshire window and removed the balance covers, installed a flimsier screen and switched to the cheaper constant force or coil balances and installed single strength glass you’d have an a “new” Amherst Plus window.

revere amherst plus windows

Does this mean it’s a bad product?

Nope, but it does mean you don’t get a lot of bang for your buck.

What does the Revere Amherst Plus window cost?

Now for the important part.  The actual wholesale cost difference between the Revere Amherst Plus windows and the nicer Revere Berkshire Elite windows is only around $10 per window.  That means for just a couple bucks more you can get upgraded balances, double strength glass, better air infiltration ratings, heavier screen frames, etc.

Of course this doesn’t mean that your local contractor will be charging only $10 more for the nicer window.  They might be padding their profits a little and showing you a $50 difference in price.  Just offer them less and you’ll probably get it.

Only you can decide how cheap you want to be with your new windows.  If you’re selling the home or renting it out and you really don’t care about the windows then maybe these are the right products for you.  If you’re going to be living in the house for any length of time I would really suggest the nicer product as long as you can get it at a reasonable cost.

Find more Revere window reviews and the best replacement window reviews online.

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.

Alside Excalibur II Windows Reviews

Update: While this Alside Excalibur II 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!

The Alside Excalibur II windows are produced for use on the west coast.  They are designed to be installed into homes with the stucco exteriors that are typical in that part of the country.  While the Alside Excalibur and the Excalibur II share a name, they are in fact different windows.

Excalibur II or 2 windows
Notice the stucco flange on the Alside Excalibur II.

The stucco flange on the exterior of the window allows for simple installation into stucco homes.  This design element is common on the west coast, but seen less often in the mid-west and east coast.

The Alside Excalibur II windows are designed to be competitively priced windows that offer standard features that many other companies list as options.

Alside Excalibur II windows reviews
Here’s a pretty shot of an Alside Excalibur II sliding window.

These windows are custom manufactured at plants in Yuma, Arizona and Bothell, Washington.  Alside is different than most vinyl window manufacturers in that they ship windows to all 50 states.

What’s the typical cost of Alside Excalibur II windows?

As with all replacement windows the pricing can vary quite a bit from one dealer to another and in different installation scenarios.  One project could look similar, but be substantial more or less expensive than another.

With that being said, the Alside Excalibur II windows should typically go for $300-$400 including installation.  It is possible that difficult installations or more expensive options could drive the price higher and a very basic window with very basic installation could easily be under $300.

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.

Find more detailed window reviews here.

Alside Excalibur Windows Reviews

Update: While this Alside Excalibur 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!

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.

excalibur-frame-1

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.

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. 

None of the companies that we recommend are offering the Alside Excalibur model as it’s long past its prime. When shopping for new windows it’s important to work with someone who understands what is going on in the industry and is able to recommend the best windows available. Find our list of the best window companies right here.