House pic is not attaching- I'll keep trying.

Things have progressed. Pale European oak engineered wide plank flooring is a popular choice. Monarch PlankLink is one of many sources. Duchateau is another. Link. Hardwood flooring design, techniques and information - monarchplank

The kitchen you've shown is from the time when looks ignored function. Counter spaces with open width for work zones are important. Induction ranges are more common.

" thought I liked Sierra Pacific windows- but am worried about longevity. "

Good thoughts. I would never recommend anything they produce.

Geez - doesn't living in this Orwellian day make you question longevity or mortality? Bur for the windows- I have not seen homes 10 years later on how SP holds up. i thought about Windsor- but not impressed with their construction. I also love the look of this window sill- I will be doing 2x6 construction. and likely using mostly fixed windows- except on the sides of the house. Appreciate the comments- no way, no how would I ever go induction. Natural gas all the way- thank goodness I do not live in N Y

@Tara H are you also the op? Windsor is no higher on the food chain the SP.

Yes!! I am the OP- Houzz said it no longer recognized a FB LOGIN so it made me create a new profile- had not visited this site in 15 years 😂

I can go as high as 30k for windows - just want best product for SC temps.

The Monarch Plank flooring is exactly what I was looking for! Thank you! My exuberance for gas cooktops is stemming from Hurricane Beryl taking out our power for 10 days- relied on our gas cooktop to cook loads of meats in our freezer- in a pinch- gas is a lifesaver!

For a timeless look, stick with white windows. For flooring, I love Goodfellow, Riverside Heights collection.

" I can go as high as 30k for windows - just want best product for SC temps. "

Tough to say much when we have no idea on the quantity, size, size of the windows. Does that include any sliding or hinged patio doors? Exterior entrance doors? What style home?

2,500 sq ft home- less than 20 windows- door budget is separate- 10k for 3 exterior doors. Craftsman style home similar to this

Actual house before modifications-

What do you want the interiors to look like, wood or white? Did you have a preference to aluminum clad, vinyl, fiberglass?

Pella Reserve is a clean efficient look- think those are aluminum clad. white on exterior and wood on inside.

We replaced our 10-unit condo windows with Enerlux fiberglass windows in 2016. They have performed well, are very energy-efficient, and have dramatically reduced road noise.

I'd consider a cool roof:

• Energy Star Cool Roofs
• Cool Roof Rating Council - What is a Cool Roof?
• Cool Roof Rating Council - For Home and Building Owners
• Roof Directory

CRRC - What is a Cool Exterior Wall?

Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency

Thank you! i will check out Enerlux right now. i have read up on cool roofng- not a good option for this project. Hopefully they will improve upon better options.

" Pella Reserve is a clean efficient look- think those are aluminum clad. white on exterior and wood on inside. "

Thought you said you wanted a good long lasting quality window? Anything Pella is not it. Look at Kolbe Forget, or Marvin Elevate are two places I would start. Stay away from anything Pella.

Even Pella doors? I used Marvin in my last project- very pleased but spoke to two builders who said consistency has changed with Marvin- they stopped using them when 20% of windows had to be replaced bc of manufacturing error- the other builder's story was the same- not familiar with the other one- will check them out!! I'll call Marvin today and see what's up. Thank you!!

Pella as a whole is awful to deal with. Quality control, fit and finish, warranties, customer service are all lacking in all product lines. The Impervia may quite possibly be the worst yet.

I looked at Marvin windows when I was planning our 90+ condo window replacement project. I decided the Enerlux windows were better made. Enerlux sent me a window sample so I could see how it was constructed and compare it with competing products.

Thank you for the visual! spoke to a rep and they are looking for specs down South- he was exceptionally helpful. The warranty on glass is good- but the warranty on trim is just 10 years- I worry about our southern sun exposure- but most of my windows will have some overhang

"I worry about our southern sun exposure..."

I see no signs of degradation of our DC, south-facing Enerlux windows. I'm not sure there's a better window material than fiberglass. Use casements and awnings as they are more energy efficient than double-hung. Consider Enerlux picture windows where you can as their narrow frames allow more glass and a better view than fixed casements.

You can use the Climate Zone Finderto find the appropriate window specs for your area.

Martin windows are good.

Do splurge on the tilt-in. So much easier to keep clean.

Things have progressed. Pale European oak engineered wide plank flooring is a popular choice.

This doesn't matter at all. Trends in flooring, etc. will change in another year or two, and casing them will just make you unhappy.

For a timeless look, stick with white windows.

Definitely. I can't believe these black windows have hung around as long as they have.

Millworkman- I see your reviews and clear .02 regarding Sierra Pacific; do you have any recent experience with Sierra Pacific Aspen Collection or is your experience only based on history?

Do you think there Aspen series could be the Collection that brings them into Prominence in all areas when compared to the likes of Marvin Ultimate. etc. @millworkman