I went thru the window replacement about 20 years ago and I must have interviewed every window company on earth. The things I looked for were weight (the heavier, the better), well constructed mitered corners, and also the screens are a big part of this purchase. Make sure the screens are as well constructed as the windows.

Thanks olldbobbi! This helps!

Most companies that advertise themselves as replacement windows (you know who they are from all the TV ads) come in and leave a portion of the existing window and insert their window inside that. You get a look that is not "normal" and you have the appearance of very wide framing around the window and you have less actual view. These are also generally vinyl. We actually went to one of them about a month ago to buy an example of a low quality window (to use in our design center to help customers understand the difference) and the one they sold us does not meet the current residential energy code requirements that were put into place the beginning of 2012. So more than a year later they are selling windows that should be off the market.

If the existing frames are in great shape, what we typically do is a sash replacement. If not, we do a full replacement of the window and try to use a quality aluminum clad window - reduces maintenance on the exterior but provides a lot of flexibility on the inside to paint or stain to blend back in with the rest of the house.

For siding, have you considered a product such as Hardi? According to the cost vs value report it is still the home maintenance product that returns the most value to the homeowner when it comes time to sell. Look for contractors that are going to do the job correctly for both the roofing and siding. We don't put one material over top of another. We get it off, correct problems with house wrap, flashing, air intrusion and then put the new siding on. On the roof, you want to get the old off and correct any problems with sheeting that is beginning to rot and correct any water issues. Reflash areas or remove and recaulk existing flashing and put new boots on any vents that penetrate the roof.

Thanks Deborah! I'll definitely check out the Hardi siding!