This is a copy/paste since the same question keeps coming up. This info relates to both the people who make the window and the people who install your windows.

I have been answering the same question over and over again on Home Improvement web-sites, which window is the best. Most window buyers have no idea how to rate a window company.

Rating windows is not as easy as saying one is better than the other one. Consider these things when rating windows:
Looks- which window looks the best to you the owner. Does the window look good viewed from both the inside and the outside?
Function- does the window meet your needs? Do you want the sashes to tilt in for easy cleaning?

Options- does the window company offer the options that you need? How about colors, windows are now sold in several different color both on the inside and the outside. Window screen are now available with several different options.

Maintenance- do you want a window that is easy to clean and does not require any painting or staining?

Warranty- how long is the warranty that they offer? Will the company be around to honor the warranty? Does the warranty cover labor? Is the warranty pro-rated? Do you have to buy replacement parts at an inflated price?

NFRC ratings- Do you care about how good the glass is? Do you understand the benefits of triple pane glass? Do you know the differences between the different spacers? Do you know about Argon gas or Kyrpton Gas?

Customer service- will the company handle your window issues in a timely manner. If one of your sashes (glass) breaks how long will it take to get you a new one.

You should check the BBB reports, and several of the other on-line complaint databases to get a feel for what people are saying about a company.

Good luck with your project!

fhiwindows - thank you so much for the quick response. I definitely have a lot of research to do.

http://www.efficientwindows.org/ this is a great place to start.

fhiwindows - Again, thank you. I have bookmarked the website and will read it thoroughly when my brain is functioning better.

Keep in mind, buying a quality, high performance window is only half the job. A quality assured installation is the second half of the job.

Make sure the crew is experienced and professional at installing, insulating and caulking those new energy efficient windows.

Michael

Good point Brushworks! Generally framers who install most new construction windows have a tolerance of 1/4 or so. For a window to operate correctly and for the weatherstrips to make proper contact the tolerance needs to be under 1/16".

I have repaired/replaced several windows that were out of square as much as 5/8"--for some reason cold air was coing in!

jackiemcg,

This can be overwhelming! Do some research and decide what type of windows you want. Vinyl, fiberglass, or wood clad. Depending on your climate some types may be better then others. When you determine the type of window your looking for resarch the brands and get some estimates on the brands your intrested in. Good luck!

We are working with a GC for the addition and home remodel. The contract specifies Andersen 200 Series Double Hung. I live just out of NYC so I am not sure if these windows are good enough or if we need to upgrade to something better. We have money going in so many different directions (this remodel includes the kitchen and brand new master bath, as well as many other areas too numerous to mention) so we are trying to save money wherever we can. I know windows are incredibly important so I want to make sure we get it right.

Has anyone had any experience with Shelter Wood Windows?