I suspect a great many people on this board are homeowners looking to remodel, add on or replace windows. As such, it's good to see the American spirit of comparison shoping put to test. When we pay for something from our own pockets (not insurance or government), we want to know what we are getting. Hence the questions and discussion on brands, problems, etc.

I wonder however, how many people on here are building a new home and do this research. My experience has shown the choice of window is most often left to the architech or the builder. Why?

A number of reasons go into this. A builder established a relationship with a supplier (usually a lumberyard). If he does any volume, he get's good service and most importanly a good discount. Switching horses for a different brand of product and perhaps a lower discount, is not a priority.

The same might be true of the architech because a company may supply them with computer software which disignates a particular brand size and nomenclature.

Next, there is the builder who is hard pressed due to the economy. Ask him, "what brand windows you use". The answer might be, "I use XXXX, because they are the best". It is likely his choice is also widely known due to TV advertising. This will satisfy most home builders who will move on to selection of the kitched counter material and thoroughly reseach all the option pros and cons.

Although many potential home owners may be familiar with a brand, they aren't familiar with the grades offered by that manufacturer. I won't go into brands and product levels, but if you were satisfied with a General Motor's car and expected a Cadilac, how would you feel if a Chevette was delivered? OK the Chevette isn't offered any more but you get the idea.

Why would a builder use the lower level product? Simple, it cost him less and he can give you a lower bid or make more money. Not all builders fall into this category, but remember it's a tough business and you, the consumers are the only ones who will live in the house.

Ironically, the people who fall for this trap the most will spend countless hours comparing a Lexus to a Mercedes, yet leave the choice of windows for a 2nd or 3rd vacation home (4000 sq ft or more) to the builder. After all, they can't be bothered with these trivial decisions.