Some Window/Door Recon

Started by midrover170, May 20, 2015, 09:02:45 PM

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midrover170

Hi folks -

I'm approaching the day where I hand off the torch to a framing crew to throw up the cabin shell. Beforehand, I need to know what windows/doors I'm going with so I can give details on the rough openings.

I'm sure you've researched windows online, so you know it can be pretty painful. Some people swear by a certain brand/line, while at the same time, many others talk about how bad that same product is. I would like to think that most of the window experience is associated with the quality of the installation, but I'm sure there are just some bad windows out there.

For my job, I'm looking at (w" x h"):
- Two 48"x36" gliders/casements
- Two 36"x36" gliders/casements
- One 60"x48" glider
- One 24"x36" Double hung or casement
- One 36"x24" glider
- A small awning style window in the bathroom
- (Big ticket item) a 8' sliding glass patio door

I'm meeting with a local supplier of Marvin Integrity windows tomorrow. Not really sure what to expect. I don't want windows to totally break the bank. Only thing I'm really set on is a window that has a wood interior finish, and vinyl or fiberglass exterior finish.

So: Who did you go with? Are you happy with them? What did you pay for your project?

Thanks.

DaveOrr

I haven't purchased my windows yet but when talking to my buddy who just happens to be the manager of the glass shop by my house he said to just make the openings the way you want and I'll come and measure for customs.   :)
But you are correct that trying to figure out sizing by looking @ websites is brutal.
I have 1/2 dozen used windows I will be using temporarily until the customs are done.
They are scheduled for next year along with my roofing.

FYI, the front wall of my place is going to have 10 windows in it when finished. Need a killer view of the lake and Northern lights.  ;)
Dave's Arctic Cabin: www.anglersparadise.ca


MountainDon

I agree with framing the openings and doing a nice square job of it. Then measure each RO and order the windows.

Are there any local or at least near enough window builders? Sometimes you can get more window for the buck when the cost does not include national advertising. Also locally built sealed units are a better altitude match and may not leak as readily. We have a local builder who will provide a lifetime (original purchaser) against failed seals.


The sliding patio door is a matter of personal preference. We've had them and we hate them. French door style is much easier to navigate, IMO. But like I said; it is somewhat personal.
Just because something has been done and has not failed, doesn't mean it is good design.

midrover170

Quote from: DaveOrr on May 20, 2015, 09:19:01 PM
I haven't purchased my windows yet but when talking to my buddy who just happens to be the manager of the glass shop by my house he said to just make the openings the way you want and I'll come and measure for customs.   :)

Wouldn't that introduce a lot of extra cost, if I didn't have a buddy like yours?  :D From what I understand, custom always equals more $$$. 10 windows looking at Northern Lights sure does sound swell though.

Quote from: MountainDon on May 20, 2015, 09:31:01 PM
Are there any local or at least near enough window builders? Sometimes you can get more window for the buck when the cost does not include national advertising. Also locally built sealed units are a better altitude match and may not leak as readily. We have a local builder who will provide a lifetime (original purchaser) against failed seals.

No such luck finding a local/near enough window manufacturer. Some in Salt Lake and Oregon, but the reports are hit or miss, and anecdotal. When I'm talking with the Marvin rep tomorrow, I'll ask what a custom measurement would do to my price. I'm not set on Marvin by any means; I just want to get my toe in the water and start figuring out my game plan and some estimates before it delays anything.

Don_P

We'll be using their all fiberglass Integrity line for the new windows on the current remodel job, white inside and out, I'm at about 6k right now on the main level but their slider prices will probably change that unit to something else. I've yet to get the upstairs completely nailed down. That might be a week or two, we ripped out the entry and stairs today. Its a mix of double hungs, awnings and a custom fixed pane. I've not used their product but have used the pultruded fiberglass windows before and thought they did fine. Or maybe it's just my bad memory and this job will jog it :).


MushCreek

We have Marvin Integrity in our house. We love them! I put double-hung on the front of the house for appearance; the rest are casement. I had to cheap out on the doors, as the Marvin were too rich for our blood. The french doors were $2800!
Jay

I'm not poor- I'm financially underpowered.

rick91351

WOW Hold the presses Boise and Nampa both have window manufactures.  We bought ours locally - and were manufactured local!  Look for a PM but openings half inch larger then the units and make sure they are square, measured and framed correctly.   
Proverbs 24:3-5 Through wisdom is an house builded; an by understanding it is established.  4 And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.  5 A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.

midrover170

Quote from: rick91351 on May 21, 2015, 06:17:09 AM
WOW Hold the presses Boise and Nampa both have window manufactures.  We bought ours locally - and were manufactured local!  Look for a PM but openings half inch larger then the units and make sure they are square, measured and framed correctly.

Haha, thanks Rick. Replied to your PM. I'll be looking into the local lumber yard in Kuna.