Choosing different windows for new construction

4 years ago

last modified: 4 years ago

i purchased a new construction home that is still many months away from completion. we are meeting with the builder next week. The specs call for silverline windows and after some reseach looks like they suck. i have read of places that okna is much better. i was looking at 800 series. there are a few local dealers. do you think the builder would be receptive to a window upgrade if i paid the difference? obviously the okna will be more expensive. is there any excuse they may use to say we cannot upgrade even if we pay for the better windows? is there morr labor involved for their sub contractor in installing them?

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toddinmn

4 years ago

There could be problems. Biggest problem I see if the Okna dealer wants to only sell them installed which may take away the builders profits on installation and material mark-up. Lead times and coordination could also be problems. I’d just ask.

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Mark Bischak, Architect
4 years ago
"do you think the builder would be receptive to a window upgrade if i paid the difference?"

The only way you are going to know that is to ask the builder.

Proper punctuation and capitalization is very helpful in understanding the written word.
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oberon476
4 years ago
If you can't make the Okna work then talk to the builder about other alternatives. You can do a lot better than Silverline but you can't do any worse.

American Craftsman at HD is a rebranded Silverline if you want to see what they look and feel like.
elcieg
4 years ago
You have purchased a production home...a package deal. Although the builder may offer you some choices, you can't go outside the box. The windows are figured into the asking price, and, you probably won't be able to change them. Production builders buy in bulk and get products at a good deal.
millworkman
4 years ago
IF he is willing, you will get no credit for the Siverline windows and pay a change order fee and probably double the install cost. Plus his framers may install your windows just as poorly as they would have installed the Silverlines. Most developer/tract home builders will politely tell you to pound sand they will not change.
dan1888
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
You have a challenging position. Even though completion is 'many months away' the metric you need from the builder is time to window install. That's going to be considerably sooner. When you have an approximate date for install you can begin searching for product. They have to fit his time frame to have a chance. I'd look for a quality product his crew can install. Possibly a product he can order and make his markup on. Other ways of configuring this seem less likely to succeed.

This guy has some reviews and can offer consultation.

It could help with your time and quality options. The more solid info you have when you discuss this with your builder, the higher your probability of success.