#2,#4,#5 Are the only ones that I am aware of. All 3 are low grade windows. Windows are hard to shop for, most of them look alike and the ratings are sort of like their MPG. Some of the important things to look at is the frame construction (how many chanmbers) and if the vinyl is virgin or if it is mixed with plastic. You might want to look around for at least some mid grade windows that will hold up for over 10 years.

The alliance system windows I have worked with and I do not like the way the joints are joined they look like parts are broken off. Silver line is a low end window, and i have found they do leak air. I have also worked with the Pella Thermastar (their contractor line) I have been impressed as much as I can be with a vinyl window, it is reinforced inside and every window passes an air infiltration test before it leaves the factory. I am not a uge fan of vinyl and would rather use Fiberglass than vinyl they are a little more expensive but much stronger. I would recommend not going to Lowes or Home Depot as I have found the service from these box stores is severly lacking. I would look at a good local lumberyard that has a good reputation for service or deal direct with a window compay like Pella

Thanks for the replies, but I have a couple questions in response. FHIwindows, what do you recommend for a "midgrade window"?

Galefarm, is the contractor series of the Thermstar window the ones that are sold at Lowe's, or are they purchased somewhere else?

Simonton or Alside are both mid-grade windows that carry good warranties. The only problem that I have with both companies is that they will sell their windows to anyone with a pick-up truck. They do not require training for the installers. Find a skilled window installer to install your windows (this generally excludes framers).

I believe Pella sells the same windows throught hteir distibutor network as well as through Lowes, they just ue a different designation for them. I woul duggest you stay away form purchasing through Lowes though. I would go to Pella.com and search for a store location close to you. The Pella windows are a good grade vinyl window I would not classify them as a low end window by any stretch of the imagination

How about Atrium 100 Series for $1995 or
Simonton Profinish Contractor for $2372?

Look at Marvin, Pella, and Atrium windows. Stay away from Menards, Home Depot, etc.

>> Get foam filled framings...

I recall reading a message from another Windows expert here saying that they have done studies showing that this doesn't really make much of a difference and that much of it is done for marketing hype. But I suppose I would rather have it than not if it doesn't contribute significantly to the cost.

Foam filled frames are used alot of times to enhance a weak frame. There would of course be some benefit but since 90% or more of the window is glass I would concentrate on a better glass system. On another note I have never heard of a qualtiy Single hung window since they are basically entry level widows. Go with a quality double hung. Think of it this way if they are cutting cost by eliminating the operation of the top sash what else are they cutting corners on. You will get a low grade vinyl, imported low quality components and more than likely a single sealed glass unit.

I can see there is a lot of misinformed information here. I know most of us Pro's have been very busy and didn't have the time to stop here and see the forum.

First things first, your selections at the top are really only the lower end windows. The American Craftsman (AC) and Silverline windows are both made by Silverline, which is owned by the Andersen Corporation. The AC window is bottom of the barrel and not a quality product. The Silverline window is a step above. Pella's Thermastar is a low end vinyl window that has its share of problems. I would go with the Simonton window that someone listed up above over anything you've seen already.

Your windows are only as good as the installer. The best windows on the market are pure junk if not installed properly, so get a good installer.

Foam filled frames add a lot of sound blockage and offer more stability to the manufacturers who use a thinner vinyl extrusion. It doesn't offer any substantial savings on heating or AC.

Single hung windows aren't a poor mans window by any means. They carry a better DP rating and block air and water infiltration better than a double hung of it's equal. By having a stationary top sash that's non operable, there's no where for leakage to occur. Double hung windows were invented to create circulation in a room. By lowering the top sash and lifting the bottom sash a couple inches, the air could circulate better in a room and keep it cooler. Today we have air conditioning and rarely ever use the top sash. Hope this helps clear up some questions & good luck!!!

Nfrc is the standard rates everybody goes by. so by nfrc(for example) The Sunrise window has a r-factor in the framing of over 21, wood has 4 to 5, mnulti-chamber has 2.5. so how is that just for sound. it also has a dp rating of 60. if you want to go by glass there triple pane has u-factor of .18, shgc .22, air leakage .o1. and if you live in the south they have glass package u-factore.28, shgc .21, air leakage .1. if there is a window that is better i would love to know. And I do agree it does not matter what window you buy if it is not istalled right.