Need advice on replacing windows

[escanlan]

Originally Posted by beachmouse

What are the pros and cons of buying through a big box national chain compared to an indie store/contractor?

Before you get into the advantages of one over the other you first need to make sure you know what you're getting ready to buy. Window and door manufacturers might very well make several grades of the same product. The various grades might even have different product names and most likely will have different manufacturers part numbers. The differences can be as subtle as, for example in windows, different quality level of hardware all the way up to quality of the glass and sealents/methods of sealing used between panes of glass.

Learn a little about windows first before you make any selections. Create a list of what features, quality levels, etc., you want in your windows. Then take that list and use it as a selection guide. You can learn a lot about windows from the following links. They will also link off to other valuable sites.

GLASS ON WEB
NFRC - Welcome
Technical Resources Residential Glass
Sill To Sash

Now to answer your original question. Once you determine your window needs/desires you can shop around. There are advantages and disadvantages to each:

Big Box:

• Can sometimes provide lower prices than the independent stores.
• Like Lowes/Home Depot/etc., are not going anywhere soon. If you have issues later they will be around (that does not necessarily mean they will back every issue).
• If the manufacturer won't back an issue the Big Box can afford to absorb the cost easier than an independent can and might do it.
• Have access to a wide variety of manufacturers.
• Many times have access to lower cost installation labor. Not all Big Box contractors are problems. Many good contractors sub out to the Big Box to keep their schedules full.

Independent (includes specialty stores as well as contractors)

• If they opened their business after performing the function for years then you have a great deal more knowledge to draw from than the Big Box.
• If they are a manufacturers representative then you have easier access to the manufacturer to solve issues that arise.
• If a manufacturers rep they usually have access to special pricing, lots at the end of the manufacturing line (before new models) that they can obtain inexpensively.
• If they are properly licensed to do business, and there is an issue either the manufacturer or they refuse to handle then they are easier to chase after than a Big Box.
• If it is a reputable business they will have a better knowledge of who (what subcontractors) are the best for installing their product.

Good luck on your window purchase and installation!

[beachmouse]

Thanks. We're leaning toward Andersen/Pella because we'd prefer a big player and they do mass market impact glass windows that meet Miami-Dade code standards. (not required in our area, but something we want since we're likely still in the house when the next Big One hits)