Replacement windows -- recommendations?

Hi all, surprisingly can’t seem to find too much info on this in the archives or elsewhere: I am planning to replace all of the front windows in my 3-family house (8 windows total). They are large, approx 77″x30″. Hoping to find something affordable and energy efficient, but also from a company that will install the windows properly and that offers a good warranty. I’ve been trying to look around online for recommendations, and have also posted on ServiceMagic/HomeAdvisor, resulting in 2 price-points: 1) Four Seasons / Sears kinds of companies, whose salesmen come visit the house after ServiceMagic inquiries. They seem to offer a similar, decent-looking product, custom-built, vinyl, Low-E coated, argon-gas filled, etc. The quotes are coming to approximately $800-$1000 per window. 2) Some local companies in Brooklyn that seem to offer a similar product/installation, but for nearly half the amount. We’ve found a few of these, but can’t seem to find much info/reviews online about the installing company or the brand of windows. I imagine many of you must have been in a similar situation — anyone care to share how you went about this, companies you’d recommend, prices, etc? Thanks!

riinehart

in Doors & Windows 12 years and 2 months ago

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lilitrue | 11 years and 8 months ago

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@dancingirl. Landmark filing doesn’t have fees from the city. You can do this yourself as long as you have a quote/plan from whomever is doing the work: http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/forms/application_form_full.pdf

jbrew | 11 years and 10 months ago

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Hi dancingirl, did you ever wind up having your windows done?

kimplicated | 12 years and 2 months ago

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Have been hearing a bunch about Yaro Windows ( yaro-dsi.com ) recently. Haven’t used them myself, but worth looking into. Dancingirl, would love to  hear what you find out about installation options.

dancingirl | 12 years and 2 months ago

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Can anyone tell me if $1500-$2000 to file with Landmarks for window replacements is usual?  Is it managable for a home owner to do it themselves?  thanks.

dancingirl | 12 years and 2 months ago

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I am also replacing some of my windows in the back of my building.  I was planning to go with Marvins since I haven’t had any problems with the ones I bought ten years ago.  Wish I had done all of them back then! I have original wood molding that I don’t want to disturb, so I can’t do brick to brick. oh well.   I have heard it is quite messy.  Looking into installing options next week, I will post whatever info I find if you would like.

slopette | 12 years and 2 months ago

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From NY Mag this week: http://nymag.com/bestofny/services/2013/windor-replacer/

anonymous | 12 years and 2 months ago

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Have you considered thermal and soundproofing inserts? You may be able to save a lot of money and still get the window performance you’re looking for. Several companies in the Directory offer various solutions.

mousta | 12 years and 2 months ago

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I used Vila windows. They had the best price of the few places I tried and they were fast. Solid windows. I only did aluminum with them though.

needmtg | 12 years and 2 months ago

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Windows We Are did a super job on 2 windows for me. Friendly, easy to work with, cleaned up well and installed timely. I got a Kolbe&Kolbe front parlor window which is great but more expensive than the other Trimline. I also got partial simulated divided lights which look great but added about 800 to the cost of the front window. If you’re not landmarked, don’t go for wood, get clad windows. And if you care about efficiency, consider casements.

overherhead | 12 years and 2 months ago

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I used Lucky Window Products in Brooklyn after talking to the large chains etc.  They have a lot of different names, were well priced, and nice to work with.  They’ve been out for repairs twice due to settling without a fuss.  I ended up using Supraseals, which I think no longer makes windows, but the LWP guys had a replacement ready to suggest when I called to finish my last few windows.

sethamin | 12 years and 2 months ago

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Are you looking at new construction windows or insert replacements?

TracyT | 12 years and 2 months ago

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We used Kolbe windows (all wood), installed by Heights Historic Windows, in Dumbo. Kolbe was recommended by an architect on this forum, quality equal to Marvin, which a lot of people use, but lower in price, and factory painted with a guarantee of I think 10 or 15 years for the paint. We did a “brick-to-brick” installation, which is more expensive but gives you a better look and better fit, therefore more energy efficient. I’d highly recommend both Kolbe and Heights Historic.