Note: The Revere Berkshire windows have been discontinued. Revere has removed some features from the old Berkshire window and renamed it the Amherst Plus window. They have replaced the Berkshire window with the completely new and redesigned Berkshire Elite window. You can read our review on that new model here.
The Revere Berkshire windows were the most popular replacement window ever produced by Revere Building Products. They sold hundreds of thousands of Berkshire replacement windows over the years. The window combined many features found in more expensive products with the simple clean lines that Revere widows are known for.
Why was the Revere Berkshire window discontinued?
Time stops for no man (or replacement window). The Revere Berkshire windows just got a little long in the tooth. There have been some innovations in the replacement window business and Revere needed to keep up. Newer windows were using true sloped sills and non-metallic reinforcement. The newer replacement windows were achieving slightly better efficiency ratings including better air infiltration ratings. If Revere wanted to continue to offer a top tier replacement window option they needed to change.
What about the Revere Berkshire window warranty?
One of the benefits of working with a large company like Revere is that you can be pretty confident that they’re going to be around for the long haul. The fact that they retooled the Berkshire window to create the new Amherst Plus window is a great sign for past customers.
This means all of the equipment needed to product parts for the older Berkshire windows is still in the plant. Revere has set themselves up to be able to honor their warranty obligations for many years in the future with no problem at all. This is a great sign for past customers.
If you’ve been researching replacement windows for your home, you may have come across the Revere Amherst Plus series. IMPORTANT NOTE: This model has recently been rebranded as the Gentek Concord Plus window. The product is 100% the same. These vinyl replacement windows have been around for years, and they’re often promoted as an affordable, reliable option for homeowners who want decent energy efficiency without paying top-tier prices.
But are they really a good value in 2025? How much should you expect to pay? And how does the Amherst Plus stack up against other windows on the market?
Let’s take a deep dive into Revere Amherst Plus replacement windows—covering pricing, warranty details, energy performance, design options, and more—so you can decide if they’re the right fit for your home.
What Is the Revere Amherst Plus Window?
The Amherst Plus is a budget friendly vinyl replacement window made by Revere Building Products, a brand under the Associated Materials (AMI) umbrella. AMI also manufactures well-known brands like Alside and Gentek, which gives Amherst Plus a solid pedigree in the vinyl window world.
The goal of the Amherst Plus line is to offer affordable energy efficiency for homeowners who want a step up from entry-level products without moving into the premium price range.
In other words, these windows are designed for value-conscious homeowners—people who want reliability and a good warranty, but who don’t necessarily need every top-end feature.
Revere Amherst Plus Key Features
When you compare vinyl replacement windows, it’s important to look beyond just the price tag. The Amherst Plus includes several features that make it a solid choice for many homes:
Fusion-welded frame and sash for long-term durability
Double-pane insulated glass unit with optional Low-E coatings
Warm-edge spacer system to reduce condensation and improve efficiency
Multi-chambered frame design for added insulation
Tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning
Reinforced meeting rails for strength and security
While the construction quality is solid for a mid-range window, it’s not built to compete with top-tier models like Revere’s own higher end options like the Sovereign or Berkshire Elite series, which include more advanced glass packages and structural reinforcements.
Energy Efficiency and Performance Ratings
Energy performance is a big selling point for homeowners in 2025. The Amherst Plus includes options that allow you to customize efficiency depending on your budget and climate.
Here’s what to expect:
U-Factor: Around 0.29 – 0.32, depending on glass package
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Typically 0.28 – 0.32
Air Infiltration: Approximately 0.10 cfm/ft², which is average for this class
If you upgrade to Low-E glass with argon gas fill, you can expect a significant bump in insulation value, which may qualify for local or federal energy efficiency incentives, but this model will not qualify for the 2025 federal tax credits for energy efficient windows. You’ll need to look at other options to receive that credit.
For homeowners in colder climates, Revere also offers glass packages that meet ENERGY STAR® requirements in most U.S. regions.
Design and Style Options
Revere Amherst Plus windows are available in most common replacement window styles, including:
Double-hung windows (most popular)
Sliding windows
Casement and awning windows
Picture and fixed windows
Bay and bow configurations
Frame Colors and Finishes
You can choose from several standard exterior and interior color combinations. The standard white vinyl interior is the most common, but beige and light oak laminate finishes are available in some markets.
Custom exterior colors are limited compared to higher-end models, which is one area where the Amherst Plus shows its budget-friendly roots.
Hardware and Screen Options
The hardware on the Amherst Plus is functional and simple. You’ll find standard cam locks, tilt latches, and integral lift rails—all in color-matched finishes.
Screens are available in fiberglass or BetterVue® high-visibility mesh, which offers clearer views and better airflow. These are small upgrades that can improve your day-to-day experience.
Revere Amherst Plus Warranty
One of the most appealing aspects of the Amherst Plus is its limited lifetime warranty.
Revere offers a transferable warranty that covers:
Vinyl frames and sashes against manufacturing defects
Insulated glass units against seal failure
Hardware components for functional issues
The warranty also includes glass breakage coverage in some regions, depending on your dealer.
It’s important to note that labor is not always covered, so if you’re comparing companies, be sure to ask whether your installation warranty matches the manufacturer’s coverage.
For more details, you can review Revere’s warranty information directly on their official site. I linked the Alside warranty site here as they use the same warranty department.
Revere Amherst Plus Prices (2025 Estimates)
Pricing for replacement windows can vary significantly based on location, size, installation type, and upgrades—but here’s what you can generally expect in 2025:
Window Type
Installed Price (Approx.)
Double-Hung
$550 – $850
Slider
$600 – $900
Casement
$700 – $1,000
Picture
$400 – $700
Bay/Bow
$2,000 – $4,500
These prices assume standard professional installation and include Low-E/argon glass in most cases.
For comparison, premium windows like Alside Mezzo or Gentek Signature Elite often cost 10–20% more, while entry-level models from lesser-known brands might be slightly cheaper but with reduced warranty coverage and performance.
Solid warranty coverage from a trusted manufacturer
Easy to operate and clean
Good option for budget-conscious homeowners
👎 Cons
Limited color and design customization
Average air infiltration rating (not the tightest seal)
Not as quiet or strong as premium options
Some dealers use high-pressure sales tactics—compare quotes carefully
Revere Amherst Plus vs. Other Window Brands
When comparing Amherst Plus to similar models, you’ll find it lands in the mid-range of the vinyl window market.
Here’s how it stacks up:
Brand/Model
Price Range
Warranty
Notable Feature
Revere Amherst Plus
$550–$850
Lifetime limited
Strong value
Alside Mezzo
$650–$900
Lifetime transferable
Tighter air seal
Gentek Signature Elite
$700–$950
Lifetime transferable
Slightly higher energy ratings
Pella 250 Series
$800–$1,100
Limited lifetime
Brand recognition
Andersen 100 Series
$900–$1,200
10-year limited
Composite frame
As you can see, the Amherst Plus remains a competitive option for those looking for solid performance without overspending.
How to Get the Best Deal on Revere Windows
Here’s the truth: the best price doesn’t always come from the loudest salesperson.
Many national window companies use “today only” discounts or “manager specials” to pressure homeowners into signing contracts right away. Don’t fall for it.
Instead:
Get multiple written quotes from at least 2–3 local companies.
Compare the exact model names and glass packages.
Ask for a detailed installation warranty.
Avoid “neighborhood discounts” or offers that expire tonight.
We’ve written about these tactics before—check out our post on today-only window prices to see why patience pays off.
Is the Revere Amherst Plus Right for You?
If you’re planning a window replacement project in 2025, the Amherst Plus remains one of the best value windowsavailable for homeowners who want:
Reliable energy performance
A brand backed by a major U.S. manufacturer
Fair pricing from reputable local installers
It’s not a luxury window, but it’s dependable—and when installed properly, it can perform beautifully for decades.
If you want to compare Revere’s higher-end options, the Berkshire Elite and Sovereign lines might be worth exploring, especially if you want more style choices or enhanced insulation.
Final Thoughts
The Revere Amherst Plus continues to hold its place as a smart, mid-range vinyl replacement window in 2025.
It offers strong value, solid warranty coverage, and dependable performance for the price. Just remember: the best results always come from proper installation and working with a trustworthy company—not necessarily from the cheapest quote.
Note: If you’re really looking for Revere Amherst windows reviews in 2021 you’re getting bad window advice. The Revere Amherst windows have been discontinued for a number of reasons. One of which is that they weren’t very nice windows. If you’ve met a contractor that is suggesting them you should probably find another contractor who knows more about windows.
Revere Amherst windows are the bottom of the Revere window line. They were designed to be an inexpensive replacement window used for remodeling projects. While they succeeded in being inexpensive, they are not a very great option.
Here is a cutaway view of the Revere Amherst window.
The biggest drawback to the Revere Amherst windows is the method of construction. Instead of welded corners which are found on just about all windows these days the older Revere Amherst windows still use mechanically fastened or screwed together frames.
This means the frame is able to twist and flex more than a newer welded window. It also opens the door to leaks as the corners of the window are not necessarily weather tight.
What’s good about the Revere Amherst windows?
While I may be sounding a little negative there are a few highlights when looking at the Revere Amherst option. First, they use the upgraded block and tackle balance mechanism found in other Revere replacement windows. The balance mechanism is the part that allows the window to open and close and this type is better than the inexpensive “constant force” or coil balances used in many other windows.
They also feature standard metal reinforcement in the sashes which is something that competitors often charge extra for. This reinforcement is placed at the bottom of the top sash and the top of the bottom sash (at the middle of the window) which is the weakest point. They reinforce the structure to help these windows stand up to the wind and rain.
How about the Revere windows warranty?
Another good point is that the Amherst windows are covered by the same warranty as all Revere windows. This is a pretty strong warranty and it’s backed up by Revere’s parent company, Associated Materials, Inc. This means you not only get a good strong warranty, but you also get one that will likely stand the test of time.
How about the cost of the Amherst windows?
This is where they lose me. Based on the info I was given the wholesale cost difference between the Revere Amherst windows and the much nicer Revere Berkshire Elite windows is only about $15 per window. If you’re considering new windows for your home and you’re not willing to spring for an extra $15 to get the much nicer Berkshire Elite windows then you just might be beyond help.
At the end of the day the Revere Amherst window was designed to be a cheap option. It’s cheap alright, but not cheap enough to justify all of the sacrifices.
Update: While this Revere Berkshire Elite window review was originally written several years ago it’s been updated in 2021 as we continue to work to provide the best replacement window information on the entire internet in 2021 and beyond. See info towards the bottom of this post for the most recommended window companies in 2021. Be sure to post a comment or send us a message with any questions!
If you’re considering Revere Berkshire Elite windows we sure hope you’ll appreciate this review. The Revere window line is distributed through a network of professional installers across the country. They are available on the east and west coast with specific products for each market. Our Revere Berkshire Elite windows reviews will go through the features, warranty, cost, and drawbacks of this popular new model.
The Revere Berkshire Elite windows are a new model that replaced the older Revere Berkshire window. While this new model shares a similar name it is an entirely new window. This new model addresses many of the shortcomings that were present in the older Revere Berkshire windows.
A common misconception in the window business has to do with the parent company of Revere Building Products. Several years ago Revere was bought by Associated Materials Inc. They’re a holding company that owns several large building products manufacturers. They own Alpine windows on the west coast, Gentek windows in Canada, Alside windows in the US and Preservation windows also available across the US.
Revere windows fill a unique spot in the stable of products produced by AMI. They’re available all across the US, but mostly through large window installation companies rather than distribution centers that sell windows to any contractor with a pickup truck. Revere does this to ensure that only established companies offer their products. This helps them keep their warranty costs down as the windows are typically installed well.
Our favorite feature when it comes to the new Revere Berkshire Elite windows is the large glass area. This is a common theme in our reviews because it directly relates to how you’re going to enjoy the new windows. Revere Berkshire Elite windows allow for a very large glass area while still maintaining great efficiency ratings. This is a combination that many other manufactures have not been able to accomplish.
Notice the large glass area of the Revere Berkshire Elite window
Notice the dramatic effect of the larger glass area. Many replacement windows use these thick frames that dramatically reduce the amount of light (not heat) that enters the home.
The Berkshire Elite window is designed to be a high end window. It’s available in 9 exterior colors and 9 interior finishes. This is a pretty extensive selection for a replacement window. While most folks pick white or beige windows the finish options for nice vinyl windows are much more beautiful than they used to be.
A major advantage to the Revere Berkshire Elite windows is the upgraded balance mechanism that they use. The block and tackle balance system in these windows is tested to last 2.5 times longer than the less expensive constant force or coil balances that are used in many replacement windows. Revere is certainly not the only company to use these nicer balances, Okna, Sunrise, Thompson Creek and Stanek windows also use these high end balances. Many other manufactures such as Alside, Soft Lite and Simonton still use the older and less expensive coil option.
Here are the drawbacks of the coil or constant force balances as listed in a promotional piece produced by Associated Materials. Remember this is a parent company of Alside, of of the largest companies offering the less expensive coil option:
It’s pretty clear which type the nicer windows out there use. The Revere Berkshire Elite only use the block and tackle balance system.
There are two more great new features relating to the sill at the bottom. The sill is a true sloped sill which means it does not use weep holes to drain water. This is the way most new windows are designed, but many older design still drain water through the frames.
The welded sloped sill drains water to the exterior.
What about the screens?
One similarity the Revere Berkshire Elite windows share with the Alside Mezzo windows is the high quality screen. They both share a heavy duty extruded screen frame that resists bending and twisting. It’s a heavy duty product that is warrantied for as long as you own your home.
Most other companies offer a flimsy roll formed screen as their standard product with a heavy duty screen as an option. With Revere you get the nice screen every time. It may sound like a small feature, but it goes to show you how seriously they take the quality of their products.
What about the efficiency?
The Revere Berkshire Elite windows can have great efficiency ratings depending on how they are ordered. They are available with many types of glass coatings, spacer systems and gas fills that all affect the ratings. For example the Revere Berkshire Elite window can easily meet or exceed the 2015 Energy Star guidelines for all regions of the country with double pane glass. Most of the other window designs require triple pane glass options to hit these levels.
UPDATE: Triple pane glass is now available in the Revere Berkshire Elite window and it’s become a very popular option. They offer several triple pane glass packages in this model with SHGC ratings as low as 0.17 and U-Factors as low as 0.21. If you’re considering this window model, triple pane glass is an option you may want to consider.
How much do Berkshire Elite windows cost?
The cost of these windows can vary widely based on the options you select, the complexity of the installation and the company offering them. Basic white double hung windows typically run in the $500-$700 per window range including installation. Some companies will charge more and some less so make sure you’re comfortable that you’re getting a fair price before moving forward with your replacement window project.
You will find that Revere windows will likely be available from a small number of companies in your area. This is the case with many nicer windows. If you don’t like the company offer them or if you’re not comfortable for any reason just move on. There are plenty of great windows out there so if you can’t find something you like when it comes to these just pick another brand.
How about the Revere Berkshire Elite window warranty?
The warranty on these windows is pretty strong, but generally similar to warranties offered by many high end window manufactures. For example the window frames and hardware are covered for as long as you own your home. They cover the seal in the insulated glass and even the screens as well. Be aware that a glass breakage warranty is available, but it is not standard so the company doing the installation will need to include it. If you don’t have that in writing you probably don’t have it so it’s worth double checking.
What are the drawbacks of the Berkshire Elite windows?
The limited distribution can be a drawback of the Revere windows. If the company that offers them in your area is great then you’re in great shape, if not you’re out of luck. Don’t sweat that too much. If you don’t like the local company for any reason just find another product. There are plenty of great windows out there.
Here we’ve compiled our old reviews for discontinued Alside window models including:
Alside Excalibur
Sheffield
Ultramaxx
Centurion
Geneva
These models are gone but not forgotten. If you have any of these windows in your house you may be interested in the Alside window warranty and you can find info on that on our Alside windows page along with reviews of models that are still available.
If you’re looking for an Alside window that you can’t find listed anywhere it may be a private label window created for a specific contractor. Post a comment about it and we’ll be happy to help you make sense of it.
Now on to the old reviews.
Alside Excalibur window review
The Alside Excalibur window was the most popular window produced by Alside for many years. Millions of these windows have been installed all across the country. The Alside Excalibur window is slated to be discontinued in 2014 and replaced by the newer Alside Mezzo window.
The Alside Excalibur window has been a popular option because it meets the needs of most homeowners at an affordable price. This window came with standard features that we’re available options on competing models.
Standard features on Alside Excalibur windows:
Double strength glass
Heavy duty screen frame
Steel reinforced sashes
DP50 rated for strength
Sloped sill
Despite the list of standard features, the Excalibur window was often criticized online. This had a lot to do with the fact that it was sold by Window World under the Comfort Word 4000 brand at very low prices. This made the competition offering similar products at higher prices uncomfortable.
Not all criticism of the Alside Excalibur was unfounded. The design was a little past its prime and several elements were due for an upgrade. In addition the manufacturing tolerances weren’t as tight as they could have been which led to inconsistent quality.
What about the Alside warranty?
The warranty from Alside was always pretty solid and that was certainly the case with the Excalibur windows. The warranty covers the glass seal, the windows and the hardware for as long as the original purchaser lives in the home and it is transferable when the house is sold.
Alside Sheffield Reviews
Here we’ll be taking a look at the Alside Sheffield windows. The Sheffield windows used to sit near the top of the Alside window line. Very similar products are sold under various brand names including Alside Ultramaxx and Comfort World 6000 series. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a better window than the Alside Excalibur or the Alside Mezzo (their other common offerings), but it does mean it will likely cost more.
In comparison to the newest window in the Alside line, the Alside Mezzo window (which we reviewed recently), the Sheffield doesn’t compare very well except in a few specific situations. For example, the Alside Sheffield window is available with triple pane glass while the Mezzo window was not when initially launched. The Mezzo window now has this feature available so that leaves one less reason to buy the Sheffield model. Obviously this only matter to you if you’re a triple pane kind of person.
Another point of differentiation is the fact that the Sheffield window has a few extra pieces of weather stripping. This sounds good and the salesperson might tell a great story, but if you compare the air infiltration ratings you’ll see the Mezzo is typically better. This tells you the extra weather stripping on the Alside Sheffield isn’t doing you much good. It provides the salesperson a nice story to tell, but it doesn’t do much else.
The biggest drawback in my mind is that the Alside Sheffield window uses a much thicker frame which reduces the glass area considerably. If you’re looking at samples in person take a look at the thick frame, especially the sill, and decide if that’s what you want in your home.
Alside Sheffield vs Ultramaxx
The Alside Sheffield and the Alside Ultramaxx share the same frame and ALMOST all of the same parts. There are only 2 two differences between these 2 products. One is the type of sill. The Sheffield uses a sloped sill that allows water to run off and the Ultramaxx uses a pocket sill that drains water out through weep holes in the frame. There are advantages and disadvantages to both systems.
The Alside Sheffield and Ultramaxx models are almost exactly the same product.
The second difference between the Sheffield vs the Ultramaxx is the lift rail on the sash. The Sheffield has a lift rail at the very top and at the very bottom. The Ultramaxx adds another in the middle of the window. Having trouble visualizing what I’m saying in this section? Don’t sweat it, these two windows are essentially the exact same product with different names.
To sum up the Alside Sheffield review I’ll say if you’re getting triple pane glass it’s a fine option. If you’re not this window does’t really make sense and you’ll be better off saving a few bucks with the Alside Mezzo.
Alside Ultramaxx Reviews
For our Alside Ultramaxx window review we’ll compare the Ultramaxx to the other Alside window products. The Ultramaxx windows sit near the top of the Alside window line. Very similar products are sold under various brand names including Alside Sheffield and Comfort World 6000 series. When we say they sit near the top of the line that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a better product than anything else, but it does tend to cost more than some other products out there.
When comparing and reviewing Alside windows, the Alside Mezzo window (which we reviewed recently) stacks up pretty well. The Ultramaxx doesn’t compare very well except in a few specific situations. For example, the Alside Ultramaxx window is available with triple pane glass while the Mezzo window was not available with this option when initially launched. The Mezzo model does now offer this option so there’s one less reason to pick the Alside Ultramaxx window.. Obviously this only matter to you if you’re interested in triple pane glass.
Another difference is in the weatherstripping that the Ultramaxx window comes with. This sounds good and the salesperson might tell a great story to go with it, but if you compare the air infiltration ratings you’ll see the Mezzo is typically better. This tells you the extra weather stripping on the Alside Ultramaxx isn’t doing you much good.
One important factor to consider is that the Alside Ultramaxx window uses a substantially thicker frame which reduces the glass area considerably. If you’re looking at samples in person take a look at the thickness of the frame, especially the sill at the bottom. Only you can decide if that’s what you want in your home, but it will reduce the visible glass area and reduce the visible transmittance rating.
Alside Ultramaxx vs Alside Sheffield
The Alside Ultramaxx and the Alside Sheffield share the same frame and ALMOST all of the same parts. There are only 2 two differences between these 2 products. One is the type of sill. The Ultramaxx uses a Pocket sill that allows water to run down through the frame and the Sheffield uses a sloped sill that lets water run down and out. There are advocates for both designs, but at the end of the day they’re pretty similar. Even the Sheffield here doesn’t use a true sloped sill, but perhaps that’s a discussion for another day.
Alside Geneva Windows Reviews
The Alside Geneva window is a bit of a strange bird. It’s a hybrid unit that has welded sashes and a mechanically fastened frame. This is a bit of an unusual design. In fact, we’re not aware of another window still on the market that is built like this.
The pitch for the Alside Geneva window was that the mechanically fastened frame allows it to be more easily installed in old out of square openings while the welded sashes provided the strength needed.
Here’s a glamor shot of the Alside Geneva windows.
In reality it’s just an old design that is on it’s way to the glue factory. The Geneva window, along with the Alside Centurion window are being discontinued and replaced with the Alside Fusion window.
This is a worthwhile change as the Geneva window was long past its prime. These older windows have still been sold recently with a rather large following in Boston for reasons that can’t really be explained. Regardless, the end of the Geneva window won’t disappoint too many people.
