Hello houzz! So let me get right to it. We are going to be doing a BIG job and replacing roof, siding, and windows at the same time. I've got the roof and siding done and decided, but now it is on to windows. I know that we are going with new construction windows. AND, I think we have it narrowed down to a few (or maybe more than a few) brands. I am first looking for advice on the brands, then advice on a design.

1st: The brands we are looking at are:

-Andersen 400 woodright

-Marvin Elevate

-Windsor (not sure the trim level, but has the aluminum cladding exterior)

Okna 500 series (had these in our old house as replacement and were happy with them, not sure where they stand in this line up though)

-Here is what we want: GBG, Wood interior, Half screen, double hung, Window glazing (for the sun) on the front of the house because it gets hammered by sun all day)

2nd: Design questions

-We currently do NOT have window sills in the house. This is a point of contention as there is no where to put the candles in the window at the holidays. That and we don't like not having window sills. I assume they are easy to add?

-We would like to add a bay (or bow) window to our family room, but not sure if that is the way to go because it sits in an alcove (see pic, two windows next to garage). OR, with a colonial style house is there a better way to go?

3rd: Door

-I know I didn't mention it above, but if you are still reading, great! We need a front door too....that is about as far as I have gotten with door research.

I would greatly appreciate any input, advice, where to go (in Connecticut), etc. This is big money and want to make sure I get all aspects/ideas/etc down before dropping benjamins.