Amerimax Windows Reviews

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Amerimax Windows And Doors

Explore Amerimax windows reviews on their Masters Grande, Craftsman Portrait and Aristocrat Casement vinyl window series.

Company Information: Amerimax is owned by Euramax International, Inc., which is headquartered in Georgia. However, Amerimax has two factories, one located in Colorado and the other in Northern California. Amerimax manufactures 3 main vinyl window lines that include colorful names like Masters Grande, Craftsman Portrait, and the Aristocrat casement series.

The company has a strong presence throught the western half of the United States and tends to me one of my vinyl window recommendation for consumers looking for a good vinyl window at a reasonable price point.

Are Amerimax Windows Good? One place where Amerimax shines is in the large array of exterior frame colors they offer. They offer a lifetime limited warranty, that includes a 20 year provision on materials and labor. You will find lots of general review information on them below, so please make sure to take a look at this section.

Company Rating: Amerimax gets a 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 63 consumer reviews below.

My Take On This Company: Amerimax makes a quality vinyl window and door - so yes, you should collect a bid from a local dealer.
(Always Get 3 to 4 Local Price Quotes)

Dane - Site Editor - Original Publish Date - August 16, 2013
Page Last Update: February 7, 2026

Related Topics: Amerimax Windows Prices

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Masters Grande Series | Craftsman Portrait Series

Aristocrat Series | CP-3000 Series

ProMax 8 Series | General Amerimax Reviews

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dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co

Amerimax Masters Grande Windows Reviews

The Masters Grande window is the low end offering from Amerimax that comes in 10 exterior frame colors, even sightlines and comes standard with a 10 year warranty. Performance wise, expect the following numbers; U-value 0.28, VT 0.56, SHGC 0.30. I would give the Amerimax Masters Grande Series Window a 4 out of 5 stars rating.

Dane - Site Editor

-- Estimated Amerimax Masters Grande Prices: $500 to $650 installed --
(assumes medium sized window and normal installation) *

Amerimax Master Grand Series Cost

I live in Las Vegas NV and we received a quote for 10 Amerimax Master Grand series window replacement $9000. Simonton Daylight Max for 15,500. The pitch that was given to me about the Amerimax vinyl is that it is virgin pvc infused with titanium. Is this just a gimmick? Or does it truly make the vinyl stronger. Which would be the better option? I'm reading both are decent vinyl windows. Also what is your opinion on Unishield windows from Universal Windows.

Rachel - Homeowner - from 2022

[Website Editor Reply]

Rachel, the virgin pvc infused with titanium is more or less what most quality window manufacturers use. So both of those companies are using the same basic vinyl. The Amerimax Master Grande series is a good window -- I would take it over the Simonton Daylight Max in a head to head match up -- so the fact that the Amerimax is much less expensive makes that a no brainer. Universal Windows sells the Polaris Thermalweld series I believe. This is a very good window -- better than the Master Grande series in my opinion -- but not that much better...

Dane - Website Editor - from 2022

Amerimax Masters Grande Price List

Hi Dane! Love your website!! I live in a house in "rural north" Boulder, Colorado built in 1986 with wood windows from 1986. Among other needs, we have an entire "wall of windows" south-facing where the ones on the bottom do not seal AT ALL. In general they aren't in great shape. They do have a ton of wood molding on the inside that I think is pretty.

A few years ago we replaced 3 windows with Anderson aluminum clad in our basement and it was very expensive.

We have 24 more windows to replace. I have quotes from 3 places for vinyl windows. I can't even seem to find someone who would try and sell us the Anderson aluminum clad wood and I figure I can't afford them.

Champion windows: 42,000 and they would pop windows in and not replace any current molding (this one seems beyond my ability to even consider paying for)

Amerimax windows: Conservation Construction selling Amerimax with lots of discounts 28,500 (if we get this additional 6k discount that he said might not still be available) This company says they will have to take out all of the wood molding and replace it with a single layer of molding. Their quote includes all the labor. The windows are made not too far from us in Loveland, CO

Zen windows - Softlite Imperial Elite Triple Pane

Of course they haven't come out to the house yet, but I guess they say their estimate holds, but I know he didn't quote me for tempered glass that is needed on bottom of the wall of windows. Softlite Imperial Elite Triple Pane. They say they will pop the windows in and no molding needs to be replaced or changed.

The house has minimal insulation and we experience extreme temperature changes. The heat coming through the windows was nice in the sunny winter, not nice in the summer and the drafts in the wall of windows room are also terrible.

What do you think? IS vinyl ok, or should I try to get a quote on aluminum clad wood.

My husband is freaking out at all of these costs, but it really is time on these windows and I need to make decisions ASAP. Having a "doggy door" for mice where the wall of windows don't seal is killing me (no amount of caulk is doing it!) I do feel like we need some good installers!!

Lisa - Homeowner - from 2022

[Website Editor Reply]

Lisa, I didn't see the quote from Soft-Lite on the Imperial Elite Triple Pane, but this is an excellent window. You may want to inquire about a wood grain interior option if you wanted the windows to look like a wood clad window (kind of the best of both worlds, a wood looking window with the energy efficiency of a top tier vinyl window).

The Champion quote is too high with the other two (assuming the Zen is somewhere close to the Amerimax option.

Amerimax makes a darn good vinyl window. Not as good as the Imperial Elite, but nice nonetheless.

Vinyl windows are going to be MUCH more energy efficient than an Andersen wood clad -- they just don't look as nice. The exterior aluminum cladding simply isn't as energy efficient as a vinyl, but it is strong as heck.

My suggestion would be to do the Soft-Lite Imperial triple pane, consider the wood laminate interior upgrade, and consider paying to have insulation blown into the walls. This would be the best long term approach to making your home energy efficient and much more comfortable in the summer and winter...but first obviously see what the price tag will be...

Dane - Website Editor - from 2022

Amerimax Masters Grande Cost vs. Craftsman Portrait

Aloha, I got a bid for a total of 7 replacement windows and 1 picture window for a all in price of $8,635.60 Taxes & Installation included. These are Amerimax Windows. I would appreciate your inputs on price, value and quality on these windows.

5 (62x36) Craftsman Portrait Sliders XO $5,880.00
AG3 triple coat lowE, Argon gas filled, NEAT self cleaning, Stainless steel hardware

1 (24x36) Master Grande Double Hung $750.00
AG3 triple coat lowE, Argon gas filled, NEAT self cleaning, Stainless steel hardware, Obscure glass

1 (30x36) Master Grande Double Hung $825.00
AG3 triple coat lowE, Argon gas filled, NEAT self cleaning, Stainless steel hardware, Obscure glass

1 (30x36) 66 Craftsman Portrait picture window $792.00
AG3 triple coat lowE, Argon gas filled, NEAT self cleaning, Stainless steel hardware

Thank you in advance for your time and inputs,

Ritch - Homeowner - from 2021

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ritch, aloha, thatnks for reaching out. Those prices sound relatively fair to me, especially based on what I'm seeing lately. I'd get a couple more bids to see what else is available just to compare. I defiintely like the Amerimax window lines, they are very good quality. The other option that pops into my mind is the Ali'i Extreme. I believe it's marketed as a standalone, but it's actually made by Anlin, which enjoys a very solid reputation in the industry.

I'll throw you my good and great windows recommendations.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2021

[Ritch's Reply]

Aloha Dane, thank you for your inputs. I was wondering what do you think of Simonton Daylight Max windows vs Amerimax Craftman windows. They're quoting me for the exact same price $8,635.00 installed for five (62x36) single slider, two (30x36) double hung and one (30x36) picture window. The only difference is in the lead time: 4 months for Simonton and 4-6 months for Amerimax. Appreciate any inputs and advice.

Mahalo.

Ritch - Homeowner - from 2021

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ritch, I'd much prefer the Amerimax brand over the Simonton Daylight Max. Crazy lead times these days! Assuming the company installing the Amerimax brand has a solid reputation, then this is definitely the better option in my opinion.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2021

Amerimax Masters Grande vs. Simonton Platinum

Amerimax masters Grand or Simonton plantinum. Close quotes. I’m here in Denver.

Greg - Homeowner - from 2018

[Website Editor Reply]

The Amerimax Masters Grande is the better window over the Simonton Platinum and the Amerimax is local.

Dane - Website Editor - from 2018

Amerimax Replacement Windows In Hawaii

Hello, I happened upon your webpage and really found it informative.

In the back of my house is a major road with a lot of road traffic so I called a company to provide an estimate and he suggested the following product: Amerimax windows with the following features - double pane, argon, AG3 triple coat low-E, NEAT self cleaning stainless steel hardware . it also has an internal screen between the two panes if you open the window.

There's 9 windows of varying sizes. Total cost estimate came out to a little over $10,000 for the 9 windows after his 50% discount that he is offering.

Breakdown:

Five are Craftsman Portrait Sliding window XO: two @ 60x38 - $1,078, two @ 60x36 - $1,056, 61x38 - $1,089
Three are Masters Grand Double Hung : 30x50 - $960, 36x50 - $1,044, 30x38 - $884
One is a Craftsman Portrait XOX: (for a particularly wide window - 90x58 ) - $1,628

That seemed high to me but I am not sure, given its a double pane and with all those other windows features I mentioned above, if that is a reasonable pricing. Supposedly, he said they had a 50% discount and that was the discounted price.

Thank you in advance!

Daniel - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Daniel, I agree, that bid sounds high to me as well. Amerimax makes a good window, but I'm not sure it's worth $1K a pop. I would definitely get a couple more bids to find out what the fair market rate is for your project. I know that Anlin makes a window line specific to Hawaii called the Anlin Ali'i Extreme. I would definitely get a bid on this window. Also, maybe from a Simonton dealer on one of their better window lines like the Reflections 5500 series or the Impressions series. I would be cautious about going with their more entry level windows that they sell at Home Depot.

http://windows-hawaii.com/windows/alii-extreme/

Make sure you tell the companies that come out that you are getting several bids and that you'd appreciate their best price at the outset. When you get the bids, and assuming they are lower than the Amerimax bid, you can go back to the Amerimax dealer and see if he'll match the lower bids. Even if he can't, he'll probably lower his price. Here is an article that suggests a good approach for this — https://www.replacementwindowsreviews.co/review-topics/negotiating-a-home-window-bid.html

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Amerimax Windows At 6000 Plus Feet

I am writing from Colorado. On your site, a respondent wrote the following concerning Ameramax Masters Grande windows. Amerimax windows are made here in Colorado. The main selling point for me is that they are filled with argon gas right here - windows filled at lower elevations have major pressure build up when they are shipped here.

Is it true that windows made at much lower elevations lose their efficiency at 6,000 feet elevation, that the air or argon leaks out due to the pressure differential? A local window replacer here makes that claim, and will not put in Marvin Infinity windows (my first choice) for that reason. Only Colorado-made windows.

Thanks for whatever advice you may have.

Jon - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Jon, there is an issue with the fills that are manufactured at low altitudes and shipped to higher altitudes. The manufacturers try to combat these issues by installing small capillary tubes that help equalize the pressure during the transportation. If it were me, I would certainly inquire as to how often the company has done this and whether there have been any issues in the past.

The gas fills do increase the energy efficiency of a window, but only by about 10% to 15% over normal air, so I would consider not doing an argon fill (I believe many manufacturers won't do the argon fills if the window is going to be shipped above 6000').

Having said all that, my knowledge in this area is admittedly not great. I would recommend finding a few manufacturers who work in higher elevations such as Denver. Give them a call and ask them their recommendations, they are going to have the skinny on what you should and shouldn't do. But as to the argon, I don't think it's going to be the worst thing not to have it since it's just one piece of the energy efficiency within an insulated glass unit.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Top Of Page ˆ

Amerimax Windows Reviews :: Craftsman Portrait Series

The Craftsman Portrait series is the mid range option and a step up from the Maters Grande series. It offers more robust weatherstripping and a better spacer between the window glass. Like the MG, it offers even sightlines and comes with a 20 year warranty on parts and labor. Performance wise, expect a u-value 0.28, SHGC 0.29. I would give the Amerimax Craftsman Portrait a 4.4 out of 5 stars rating.

Dane - Site Editor

Amerimax Windows Reviews 2023

We have begun the planning process to install vinyl replacement windows in our condo- we are in Northern CA. Looking at 6 single sliding, 3 single-hung and 1 sliding patio door.

So far, we've received a quote from Windows Express Signature Elite for $10881.00.- have read that their installation practices can be iffy. We have spoken with several reputable window installation companies in our vicinity and will be reaching out for multiple quotes. Other brands we are looking at:

Amerimax - Craftsman Portrait, New Horizon Patio Door
Anlin Panoramic or Catalina, Malibu Patio Door
Milgard - Trinsic or Tuscany
Provia Aspect Windows or Endure
Simonton - Madeira

We are going to obtain a quote for Ply Gem but many of the reviews I've read are negative (both for window quality and warranties). Interested in obtaining your feedback on the above brands

Leta, - Homeowner - from 2023

[Site Editor's Answer]

Leta, I think your list is spot on. The ProVia Aspect or Endure are both great series, I didn't realize they were available in California. Please let me know if this is true. (ProVia Windows Cost)

I think the Ply Gem premium is a nice mid range window, on par with the Milgard Tuscany. I think it's worth a bid at the very least.

This is my suggestion - collect your bids and if you want my advice on pricing and my take on the company to go with, send me the summaries of the bids, and I'm happy to weigh in!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2023

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait Cost

Hi Dane. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Below are the quotes I've gathered thus far, listed from most expensive to least expensive. I've rounded the quotes up a bit to include the additional costs that will be incurred if painting will be needed. I've also included the name of the installer, not in an effort to influence the analysis, but mostly to help me keep track of the quotes (this process can cause one to lose one's mind, lol!).  I plan on keeping the house another 10 to 20 years, so I'm really focused on bang for buck in terms of durability in the hot Phoenix, Arizona sun, accompanied by a solid warranty.

Renewal By Anderson: $79,000 

Anlin Catalina: $61,000 (Optum Home Solutions)

Anderson Fibrex 100 series (black): $52,000 (Dun Rite Windows & Doors)

Anlin Del Mar: $48,000 (American Vision Windows)

Pro Via Endure: $44,000 (Greco Roman Windows and Doors)

Anderson Fibrex 100 Series (black): $41,000 (Desert View Windows LLC)

Anlin Del Mar: $42,000 (The Window & Door Store)

Anlin Panoramic (tan or adobe): $38,000 (DunRite Windows & Doors)

Milgard Tuscany V400: $37,000 (K & J Windows)

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait (white or almond): $37,000 (Desert King Windows)

Milgard Style Line (tan): $36,000 (DunRite Windows & Doors)

Milgard Tuscany V400: $33,000 (Greco Roman Windows and Doors)

Energy Shield Windows & Doors: $30,000 (locally made, jump frame installation)

Alside/Alpine: $28,000 (Desert View Windows LLC)

Simonton 5000: $25,000 (Window World of Phoenix) (jump frame installation)

Steve - Homeowner - from 2022

[Website Editor Reply]

Steve, I would rank your impressive list from best to worst like this:

Anlin Del Mar: $42,000 (The Window & Door Store)

Pro Via Endure: $44,000 (Greco Roman Windows and Doors)

Anlin Panoramic (tan or adobe): $38,000 (DunRite Windows & Doors)

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait (white or almond): $37,000 (Desert King Windows)

I think the Anlin Del Mar from The Window and Door Store -- which seems to get excellent, nearly perfect reviews -- would be my pick.

Dane - Website Editor - from 2022

Amerimax Craftsman Windows vs. Anlin Catalina Windows

Hi, I'm not sure if you're still providing advice, but I live north of Denver and am considering two quotes from JDI windows for amerimax windows and bluebird windows for anlin catalina windows.

JDI is quoting amerimax at $24.5k for 23 windows (they are combining two sets of paired windows into large single slider windows) Bluebird is quoting anlin catalina at $27.6k, they did not combine the two sets of paired windows into a single large slider window.

Both of these also include a sliding patio door

It seems like the u values etc are just a bit better for the anlin catalina which include a sound package and what appears to be an nicer mesh for the screen, and I haven't gotten any information on sound or screens for the a amerimax windows. If you are still offering advice, I'd appreciate the input.

Emily - Homeowner - from 2022

[Website Editor Reply]

Emily, I think you are correct in saying that the Anlin Catalina U value (and window) are just a bit better than the Amerimax (you didn't mention which series they quoted you on, but the Craftsman Portrait is their most popular series and I will assumer it is this). In general, both of these windows are considered quite good. I did a google search for bluebird windows reviews and jdi windows reviews -- it looks like both of these companies have stellar reviews so that is fantastic! That's half the battle right there. The price difference is right where I'd expect it to be, so the windows are kind of a coin flip.

If you need a tie breaker, I often use "how long do I intend to live here?" If the answer is 10 plus, I go with the slightly better slightly more expensive window. Under 10 years and I go with the less expensive window.

Dane - Website Editor - from 2022

Amerimax Windows vs Anlin

Jose wrote: I stumbled upon your site while beginning my research for window replacement/installation on my home. I live in Los Angeles, and a local company quoted me for 18 Anlin Del Mar windows. 16 single hung and two kitchen slider windows. The price was $17,700 for 16 standard replacements and 2 frame+window replacements. I am currently waiting for two further consultation/estimate appointments, but I wanted to see what you thought about this particular quote because I really enjoyed my consultation with this particular Project Manager. I’ve learned recently that choosing the right company is just as, if not more, important as the window itself. Let me know if you view this quote as fair. Appreciate your time!

All the Best.

Jose - Homeowner - from 2021

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jose, that price is about what I’m seeing in general for the Anlin Del Mar window right now. Not exactly cheap, but certainly in the ballpark of reasonable. The Anlin Del Mar window is one of the best out there and definitely one of the best for the west coast.

The other window I would say is comparable is the Amerimax Craftsman Portrait. There should be an Amerimax dealer available in your area if you search “amerimax windows in Los Angeles, California”

I think you have a good bid so far — let’s hear what the other two bids come in at…

Dane - Site Editor - from 2021

Amerimax Craftsman Windows Quote

Hi Dane, we just contracted for windows and have 72 hrs to reviews/make changes. I’m having slight buyers remorse and have been on your website for the last 4 hours (crazy, I realize). We have four xox windows 8-12 ft, which I’m guessing are driving some of the excessive pricing. Along with a slider and 3 large xi windows, 2 regular sized and one restroom small window. The quote we got was for the amerimax craftsman windows for 17,000 in Los Angeles. Aside from the price I’m also a bit concerned that they were recently bought. Have I gone mad or is my insane anxiety warranted?

Thanks so so much and appreciate any input you may have!

For reference here are all the sizes in case it helps. Thank you a million times over, definitely lost in this.
-xox 10ft by 5ft
-xox 8ft by 46 in
-xox 10ft by 36in
-door 94in by 78in
-xo 70 in by 46in
-xox 12ft by 56 in
-xo 6ft by 58in
-xo 4 ft by 58in with tempered glass (2)
-xox 70in by 48in
-small bathroom window with privacy glass

Jessica - Homeowner - from 2021

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jessica, that is a hefty price tag, but there is no rhyme or reason these days to the price quotes. The only thing you can really do is get some more price quotes to compare it to...Amerimax is a good window, but Anlin, Milgard, and Simonton all make a window series that compares to the Amerimax offering.

I would take my time, get more options on the table, and really compare some quotes in order to find the best one.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2021

Amerimax Window Bids

Hi Dane! I could sure use your insight to help me navigate the bids I have received.

I live in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado. I am getting 15 slider windows and 2 half-circles replaced. I have 8 windows up to 99ui, 3 @100-109ui, 4 @110-119ui. Are these quotes reasonable? What strikes you as my best choice?

1.) ZEN windows;
Karma line: $13,450
Nirvana line: $13,740

2.)Lifetime Windows
Anlin Del Mar $16,500

3.) Window World;
Alside 4000 $11,858

The next are all local companies with good reviews selling Amerimax, which as you know is manufactured here, at altitude, in Colorado.

4.) Douglas Enterprizes $11,890

5.) Colorado Window Source $11,567

6.) Ross Windows and Doors $15,387

Thank you for offering your input! It is much appreciated.

Amanda - Homeowner - from 2020

[Website Editor Reply]

Hi Amanda, 6 bids, great! I don’t know any of the Colorado companies per se, so I can’t comment on those bids. For me, the top bid is the Zen Nirvana, and I am assuming that that is the Soft-Lite Classic. (Some Zen branches do use Alside, which I’m not a fan of...) Well worth the $300 upgrade over the Karma.

Anlin is my second pick, but it’s simply not worth $3K more than the Zen. I would put the Anlin Del Mar on an equal footing with the Soft-Lite Classic, both quite good vinyl windows.

So assuming the Zen branch sells Soft-Lite and they have good reviews, this would be the route I would go.

Dane - Website Editor - from 2020

[Amanda's reply]

Wow, I can't believe you responded so quickly! Thank you!

Your thoughts mirrored mine in going with the Zen Nirvana (yes it is the Soft-lite Classic) , but I was torn mainly between that option and the Amerimax window. Can you give me any input on how these 2 window brands compare? Is the Amerimax comparable for the $2000 price savings?

I will fill out the form on your website, thanks again!

Amanda - Homeowner - from 2020

[Website Editor Reply]

Amanda, I didn't see the part about Amerimax window, so I apologize. Amerimax windows are good. I would put the Craftsman Portrait Series on par with the Soft-Lite Classic, with the nod going to the Classic.

But is the Classic worth an extra $2K...I tend to think it is not.

So assuming one of the first two local bids at $11.5K comes from a company with a strong reputation and good online reviews, I would have to serisouly consider one of these bids.

Dane - Website Editor - from 2020

Amerimax Craftsman Quotes

Hello Dane, I need to replace 4 large (2-95x72, 2-89x72) windows, west facing. They currently are top 2/3 picture with 2 small sliders, and center panel. We never open the sliders, so opting to replace with picture only. I have received three bids from two companies.

Pella Impervia $9,698, and Milgard Tuscany $7243 from one company and Amerimax Craftsman $5900 from another.

My questions are: would you recommend vinyl windows in Arizona, especially facing west? The next question is should windows that large be tempered glass? Amerimax only comes tempered, but Milgard says only the ones by the slider needs to be tempered. Is it worth the extra cost of adding tempered glass to the Milgards and will the tempered V no tempered glass look different? As for the glass, Low E on all but Amerimax offers NEAT coating. Also Milgard says due to size ‘they may ship open’ what does that mean?

So many questions, apples to apples and want to get the best value and quality. Another factor is the home is stucco, so is one brand or style better suited for replacement? We are in our mid 60’s and have only been in the home for 4 years, and for who knows how long in the future 10-15yrs? Any advise or suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks.

Susan - Homeowner - from 2020

[Website Editor Reply]

Susan, ironically I would suggest the best options for you are cheapest to most expensive. Good quality vinyl holds up in the desert for the most part. Amerimax makes a good window, better in my opinion than the Milgard Tuscany. I personally think the Pella Impervia is not a good window and too expensive for the quality.

I’d go with the Amerimax and save the money, especially since you don’t know how long you are going to be there. Personally, I wouldn’t sweat the tempered glass, but I would work with the dealer to get the best glass to cut the SHGC, which essentially lowers how much heat is entering through the windows. I think in the desert this is certainly worth it.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2020

[Site Editor's Answer]

Dane I found your advice very helpful, thank you. I did fill out the contractor leads as requested. I prefer the look /style of the Milgard frames, but not enough to spend 2k more. Also, the Amerimax windows all are tempered glass, so not an issue. The SHGC rating is very good with the 340 low e and Neat coating, so a win all around.

Thanks again.

Susan - Homeowner - from 2020

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait vs. Anlin Del Mar

Hello Tim & Dane,

Wow, this is so awesome that you actually help those of us who have difficulty making these decisions and comparisons.

Basically, American Vision is recommending the Del Mar over the Coronado *when I think back I get confused and I was under the impression from Elias that the contract we signed the windows I'm getting had all the Del Mar features/benefits and find out that only the two PW=picture windows 12x60" will have the Del Mar features and all the rest will be Coronado.

Looking for replacement windows for T1-11 wood type home, single story, Phx AZ front of home faces "west" and home built in 1985, 10 windows and I did sign a contract (1/9/2020) with American Vision Windows and just unsure if I acted to hastily so while searching online I ran across your site; I'm still unsure what to do since I have limited $$ and a huge list of things that all need that same $$ (windows, exterior whole house paint job to prevent add'l dry rot...replace wood that is dry rot, roof at rental, rental homes also need painted, pool & pool deck, shade structure, yard work, car repairs... you get my drift, single mom and one kid just went off to college and one graduated)..no stress right?

Company Name & Prices (10 windows) + (patio door)
ROC 267599, American Vision Windows 6590 + 2472

Anlin Del Mar *single sliders &/or Coronado *double sliders
offered to upgrade to G340 sunshield extreme on only the Del Mar for ~$300 more

ROC 224119, Window World (quote over phone, Ryan)
Alside windows 6469 + 1750

ROC 72496, Affordable Windows (pushing or recommend Simington Daylight Max)
Amerimax Elite model = Craftsman Portrait 6235 + 2100

ROC 157938, Desert King Windows 10337 + 2332
I purchased windows from Desert King years ago for another home, (12) double slider and double hung windows for close to $5k and just can't find my paperwork, love how these windows work and look, love the full screens and the options to open all the windows from both directions, better airflow and I feel safe leaving them open. I got a verbal/txt quote $10337 w/ patio door $2332 prices installed w/ tax, with 2020 promo. Amerimax w/ upgraded glass & screens, just wasn't ready for this high of a bid.

Anlin Malibu Patio Door for block home built 1979, replacement, need lock mechanism for pool safety *extra cost through different vendor / source 72x80 XOPO Wht Vnyl gas LoE

If it would help any, I can take pictures and send to you. Thank YOU!

Pam - Homeowner - from 2020

[Website Editor Reply]

Pam, it sounds like you have four bids, all from local companies. From a products perspective, the Anlin is probably the best value bid you have. The price difference is negligible between Anlin and the Alside and the Amerimax. I'm not quite sure where the Simonton bid compares.

The Del Mar is the better window over the Coronado, but not by much, so I wouldn't make a big issue of this, plus it looks like most of the windows are single sliders.

American Vision has a good reputation and I would request their best installation team when you schedule the job and tell them you are very particular--basically that you're a pain in the ass when things don't go right :) Companies usually don't want the headache and this lessens the chance of screw ups. You might also go back to them and ask if they can match the Amerimax quote to keep you closer to your budget since you've already gone over by a lot...might work, might not.

The Desert King quote is for Amerimax windows right? It looks pretty darn high compared to the others and I'd toss it and concentrate on the others.

I think the Anlin quote makes the most sense and is so close to the others that you can't scrimp on product over hundreds of dollars (thousands yes, hundreds of dollars no because you will pay this and more over time.)

Good luck and let me know how it goes!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2020

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait vs. Anlin Monte Verde

We live in southern California, deciding between Anlin Monte Verde Bayview vs Amerimax Craftsman. Price came in about the same. Which one would you recommend?

We find this site very helpful, thanks for your help.

James - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Hi James, both the Anlin Monte Verde Bayview and Amerimax Craftsman Portrait are both good windows. I might give the nudge to the Anlin brand over the Amerimax brand. The quality of these windows is very similar.

If it were me, I'd switch my focus from the very small differences in products to the actual company doing the work. I think this is going to be the more important factor for the project.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2019

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait vs. Anlin Ali'i Extreme

Hi, I'm in Hawaii and need to replace twelve windows: single hungs, sliders and awnings. Here are the two bids I have.

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait Series: $11,000

Anlin Ali'i Extreme Series: $12,500

I believe there is some wiggle room on the Anlin bid but it didn't seem like there was any on the Amerimax bid.

Janice - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Janice, I would say the Anlin option is going to be the stronger product. By a little, not a lot. I would see how much each is willing to drop their price and then relook at the two options. If they are close, which they are now, I might put more emphasis on the company doing the work as opposed to the windows themselves.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2019

[Janice's Reply]

Dane, thank you so much for your insights.

After I sent my message we had 2 more places come out even though we had pretty much decided that we were going to go with either the Anlin or Amerimax based on research we did (mainly from your great website).

Both of the 2 new places said they would take out the old frames prior to the install. Both Anlin and Amerimax were going to do a retrofit. The 2 new places pointed out that there were places where the plaster was soft and obviously had been getting wet. They said that by doing a retrofit we wouldn't know if there was mold underneath or if the wood had been damaged. They also said doing a retrofit adds more vinyl and thus less glass.

When we asked the Anlin rep about it he was adamant that retrofit was the way to go. He said the Alii Extreme window was designed as a retrofit and by using the new construction method we would need to use as 'inferior' product.

When we asked the Amerimax rep about it he was also adamant that retrofit was the way to go. However he did say that for an additional cost (yet to be determined) they could do the new construction method even though he wouldn't recommend it.

So now we're really confused. Can you offer any advice/insight as to which is the best method to use?

Thanks so much again for your time and advice.

Janice - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Janice, if the walls are getting wet, then it is possible that mold and/or wood damage have gotten inside the walls. In this case, the full window should be pulled and reinstalled. If you don't do this, the internal damage will continue to worsen. But it is also expensive to do -- that's the problem. The retrofit adds a bit more frame and thus less glass, but is much easier to do and less expensive.

This is one of those home improvement company questions where there isn't a right answer. If this wasn't my forever home and the plaster damage wasn't too bad, I'd go retrofit. If I was staying in this home long term and the damage seemed pretty legitimate, I would seriously consider do the full pull.

I wish I had a definitive answer for you. Take your time, talk to some neighbors perhaps, and see if the answer becomes clearer over time.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2019

[Janice's Reply]

Thank you again Dane. After much back and forth we've decided to go with the Amerimax, and have the full windows pulled. There is an extra $160 charge per window but we think it's worth it to make sure there's no mold or continued damage.

The Anlin rep was so insistent that this was wrong and seemed angry that we were even considering it that we ruled him out. When we had the Amerimax rep back in and pointed out the damage he did agree that was probably the better way to go.

It's actually my sister's house that the windows are for. I'm in Hawaii visiting her from Connecticut. A few years ago I replaced the windows in my own house with Oknas based on information I found on your website. So I really do appreciate all of the useful information you give.

Janice - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Janice, it sounds like that was the right way to go. An extra $160 per window sounds pretty darn reasonable for those extra steps. Now you just have to make sure they do the work properly so you won't have to revisit this problem down the road!

I sure hope the Okna windows are working out. Hawaii and Connecticut—you couldn't get two different places for siblings to live. It must be fun to visit one another. Best of luck to you and your sister!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2019

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait vs. Anlin Del Mar

Tim, I have a second home but have never shopped for windows. I have collected my bids: 4 of the quality options you recommended for the west coast states. We live in Phoenix Arizona where it gets really hot. In our master bedroom we have a large XOX window that gets tons of heat that we would like to minimize as much as possible.

We have 14 windows and 1 sliding glass door that we need to replace. The windows are a combination of sliders, picture windows and single hungs. Here is what we have.

Ply Gem Pro: $8700, using a retrofit installation
Simonton Daylight Max: $9300, using a retrofit installation
Anlin Del Mar: $13,000, using a retrofit installation
Amerimax Craftsman Portrait: $13,000, using a full replacement

Thanks in advance!

Mike - Homeowner - from 2018

[Website Editor Reply]

Mike, I would rank them as follows: Anlin Del Mar, Amerimax Craftsman Portrait, Simonton Daylight Max, and Ply Gem Pro. The Daylight Max might provide the most value of the bunch if you were getting casements. The air infiltration numbers on these are pretty solid.

However, I'd stick to the first two. By the way, did the Amerimax rep give you a price for the retrofit installation. I'm assuming this would be considerably less with a stucco framed house since it's so costly to do full replacement on a stucco home. This might be the way to go if the price is quite a bit less.

Dane - Website Editor - from 2018

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait vs. Milgard Tuscany

Hi Dane, we live in Colorado and are replacing 23 windows, original to the home which was built in 1965. We are looking at 1 large picture window above our entry door, 2 sliding glass doors (living room), 2 hung (for bathrooms) and 1 with hung, picture, hung for the living room. The remaining are single sliders —all probably are custom sizes. We are also replacing our front entry door and sidelight - we want to do sidelight, door, sidelight option instead.

We are considering a bay window for our kitchen versus single slider...I imagine that will drive up the cost too much though. We have received quotes ranging from $64,000 (Pella) to $25,000 (Window World). We keep hearing that vinyl is no good in Colorado because “they will end up warping”...but, then I hear, “that depends on the quality of the vinyl product and generally speaking, this is no longer a problem...what is important is that the installation, meaning the insulation and workmanship around the window is critical for optimal outcomes.” Bay Windows Prices

Obviously, a composite or fiberglass window drives up the price considerably and we also have other needed upkeep projects which are high priority as well. However, we don’t want to replace our windows with crap either! In addition to the above questions/concerns, do you have an opinion about:

Milgard Tuscany versus Amerimax Craftsman Portrait series (I read somewhere that MIlgard only uses single strength glass, which I find hard to believe, but perhaps this is true).

Should we be replacing the frame as well? It seems some quotes assume this (like the one we got for the Milgard series) and others say “not necessary, it would just drive up the cost” (Window World)

Thanks you for your time.

Lisa - Homeowner - from 2018

[Website Editor Reply]

Hi Lisa, a low quality vinyl window can warp over time or if it is placed in too large an opening (again a low quality vinyl extrusion). Not the vinyl itself, this is no longer a problem, but the manufacturing of the extrusions, number of chambers, thickness of the vinyl, etc. You won't have this problem with companies like Amerimax or Milgard. Amerimax is a Colorado based company that does very well so the idea that vinyl doesn't do well in that state is ridiculous. In extremely hot climates like Texas, vinyl can have issues, but again it is usually due the quality of the extrusions.

I would give the nod to the Amerimax Craftsman Portrait over the Tuscany. The Tuscany uses a double strength glass -- single strength glass is somewhat rare these days and only found in low end vinyl windows.

Absolutely true about the workmanship, insulation etc. This is 50% of the overall quality of the project.

The question of a full frame replacement or retrofit is going to depend on the quality of the window frames and the material around the window. For instance, stucco is an expensive project with a full frame replacement because you have to rip out 8 inches of stucco around each window, replace the window, restucco and patch, and then match the color.

This question is best answered with more bids since you are essentially getting a new opinion with each new bid. I'd keep collecting them until I felt like I have a consensus on the best approach or until I felt comfortable with my decision one way or the other.

Dane - Website Editor - from 2018

Amerimax Craftsman Portrait In Denver

Hi Guys, I’m having a tough time on our replacement window project. 3 years ago, I got a bid for 10 windows at $6K. Now I'm getting bids that range from $10K to $25K. What happened????

The bids are so high that I'm almost thinking I should just shelve the project and go spend the money on some other part of the house. I live near Denver and feel like I need good but not great vinyl windows. Your website says it should cost $4500 for my project so why is it so much more expensive!

Clare - Homeowner - from 2018

[Website Editor Reply]

Clare, our windows cost calculator estimates that a mid range vinyl window with normal installation will cost you $440. That is a true statement. But the fact is every project is different. Installation can be complicated, driving that cost up to $1000 per window easily. So it's a ballpark range that doesn't take into account all the variations out there.

Since you are in Denver, I would make these suggestions for bids: Zen Nirvana, Amerimax Craftsman Portrait, and Simonton Reflections 5500 series.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Amerimax Craftsmen Portrait vs. Ply Gem Pro Series

Hi Dane, got a question for you on retrofit replacement windows. We are planning on replacing our old metal frameds with new vinyls. We've met with several contractors on this. Trying to decide on Ply Gem Pro Series or Amerimax Craftsmen Portrait series. Please let me know what you think.

Appreciate the help.

Nicole - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Nicole, those two windows are pretty close in terms of performance and overall construction. I like both of these windows and they should serve you well. I would probably lean towards the Amerimax Craftsmen Portrait myself, however the much smarter thing to do is consider the windows equal and turn your attention to the company/installers doing the work.

This is going to make the bigger difference in the long run. Choose the company with the better track record, the more thorough explanation of the install, the better labor warranty, who gives you the best price, and who your gut tells you will do the better job.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Craftsman Portrait vs Sunrise Essentials

Good Day...I wonder if you could shed some light on two windows I am considering for our home in Colorado. Amerimax Craftsman Portrait vs Sunrise Essentials. They have both given me bids that are close and I like both companies and contractors. I would like to know which of the two are a better window overall.

Thank you for your help,

Sandi - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Sandi, that's a great question. Both the Amerimax Craftsman Portrait and Sunrise Essentials are both very solid middle of the road vinyl windows. The Sunrise Essentials is the entry-level sunrise window, however I think it is equal in quality and craftsmanship to the Ameriman Craftsman Portrait window.

Honestly, I'm not sure I can recommend one over the other, that is how close in quality they are to one another. On the plus side, you have two excellent options and what would tip the scale for me is which of the companies is willing to come down off their initial bid.

Take a look at one of our articles on negotiating a window bid and maybe throw an email out to both of them and see what you get. It certainly can't hurt and I'm willing to bet that each of them drops their price at least a little. Assuming that the installation is equal in terms of quality and the overall reputations of the companies are equal, I would go with the company that gives you the best price.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

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Amerimax Aristocrat Windows Reviews And Prices

The Amerimax Aristocrat Casement can actually be ordered as either a casement or an awning window. It offers nice performance numbers, U-value 0.26, SHGC 0.25 and VT 0.47. This model is quite nice looking, with a nice slim frame and even sightlines. I would give the Amerimax Aristocrat Series Window a 4.4 out of 5 stars rating.

Dane - Site Editor