Brian....not sure what you feel is breaking the bank. We build a lot of houses over the years and we get a lot of clients and architects that do research and suggest all different manufacturers. By far the most cost effective window is an Andersen. Take it from a guy who warranties my work, Andersen all day long.

Windows are a SUBSTANTIAL portion of any home build. That and cabinetry and flooring are probably the three biggest line items that people feel that they can ''shop'' for effectively. They would be mostly wrong on all three counts if they want to maintain a certain level of quality for the build. You get what you pay for for all of it.

But, windows are the only one of the three that are permanently attached to your house, and can give you lower carrying costs each month as you live in the home. There is nothing worse or more poorly livable than a nice house with cheap windows.