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Home : Replacement Window Reviews : MI Windows Reviews
MI Windows Reviews | Editor Review
"The problem is that to look at a MI window on day 1, most consumers won't see much difference with other better-made vinyl windows. It's in year 8, 9, and 10 that balances, locks, seals, and glass will begin to display issues that then must be fixed or simply dealt with. It's very doubtful whether the MI windows warranty will apply to these issues after this many years." MI Windows top-of-the-line Energy Core does seem to offer some decent energy efficiency, but honestly I haven't seen the numbers personally so I can't speak to those with any authority. So unless you are getting the MI Energy Core series, I wouldn't put this brand in my house. The only caveat to this is if I were using them on rentals or I was flipping houses.
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Get Our Recommended Window List Also please consider filling out the free form on our site for 3 quality window price quotes — it’s how we afford to provide free consumer information. We’re not incentivized by ANY company and will help you with ANY questions you might have, and help you navigate ANY bids you receive. That’s our guarantee to you! dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
MI SunriseWe've been getting questions about the MI Sunrise connection and it's worth an explanation. In 2021, MI purchase Sunrise and have continued to make their window series under the name Sunrise. In 2023, the MI name went onto the label so the Sunrise Vanguard (as an example) is now called the MI Sunrise V4000 series. Makes sense. From the people I have spoken with, nothing has changed to the production process of the Sunrise brand. It is still the same high quality product it's always been. However, we are still monitoring the quality and if anything should change, we will be sure to update this page. Cheers.
MI Victory Windows Cost QuoteHi Dane, I came across your website and appreciate your help for homeowners. I submitted my contact info on your website and got quotes from a couple of companies. We have ten (10) double-hungs (6 34"x58" and 4 22"x58"). The following are quotes we have so far:
[Website Editor Reply]Sue, Castle makes a decent, but not great window. I'd toss the Victory quote as MI windows just can't compete. (See all of our Castle Windows reviews.)
MI Windows Reviews :: 1500 Series-- Estimated MI 1500 Price: $400 to $550 installed --
MI Windows vs MilgardI understand that MI, Milgard, and Sunrise are now all owned by the same company -- MITER Brands.
[Site Editor's Answer]Alan, yes, there is a very big difference. MI makes a lower quality window for the most part. Milgard makes a (pretty) good quality one, while Sunrise makes an excellent window.
MI 1555 Windows BidDane, I stumbled across your site and have learned a lot. We have 15 windows that need some love - don’t know if that means replacement or replacing the glass. Essentially a lot of broken seals. Half of the house has already been done with Pella and Jeld Wen when the previous owners did very recent remodeling- within 3 years so we do want to “match” the new ones at least from the outside of the house and the grid styles. The ones that need replacing are triple pane Nu Prime windows that are not the original windows, but I suspect about 30 years old. House was built in 1962.
[Website Editor Reply]Sara, I would wait to hear what your contractor friend says about the glass replacement. If you can get away with that, you may want to consider it. If you are going to replace your windows, you probably want to do them in one fell swoop to match the style and quality.
MI 1556 Series vs Simonton Pro-Finish ContractorOur contractor proposed three windows for our house: either the Andersen Silverline, MI Windows 1556 and the Jeld-Wen Builders Vinyl. I also read reviews on the Simonton Pro-finish Contractor series. What do you think of these different windows?
[Website Editor Reply]Stacey, the Andersen Silverline, MI 1556, and the Jeld-Wen Builders Vinyl are lower quality vinyl options that I wouldn't recommend if you are looking for a window to last you the next 20 years. The Simonton Pro-Finish Contractor is a better window in my opinion than these others, but still not quite what would be ideal for a top notch window.
MI Series 1556 Window BidHi Dane. Thanks so much for your great website. It really helps me to understand all these brands.
[Website Editor Reply]Ming, a bay window is incredibly more expensive than a simple replacement (it's basically three openings and way more installation work). For instance, if you put in 1 bay and high end manufacturer into the calculator, you receive a result of $2710. To be honest, bay windows are so complex, that your bids may be all over the board, depending on the amount of work needed to do the install. The calculator is certainly not meant to be an end all be all when it comes to pricing—there are too many factors that come into play in real life. Bay Windows Prices
MI MI Windows Reviews :: 1600 Series-- Estimated MI 1650 Price: $450 to $600 installed --
MI 1650 Vinyl WindowsDane, I’ve received a quote for $16k to replace 17 windows in my home using the MI double hung 1650 series. Includes instillation.
[Website Editor Reply]Josh, I agree that this price quote is high for the MI 1650 -- of any series they make. My suggestion - keep looking until you find a bid from a quality company selling a good window at a reasonable price. This should get you started!
MI 1650 Windows ReviewsHi Dane/Tim, I stumbled across the replacement windows reviews webpage and it has a ton of info. I am in the early phases of having a home built and the builder is suggesting MI double hungs. I'd love your take on MI 1650 windows reviews. This is my forever home so I want to put in some windows that will last without breaking my budget. Should I ask for something else or are MI windows for new construction better than replacements? If I should ask for something else, what would you recommend?
[Website Editor Reply]Alan, I would not consider MI windows unless he is suggesting their higher end Energy Core series, which I might put into my good quality list below -- maybe. Most contractors don't consider windows all that important in my experience. I think this is because they are installing brand new windows and by the time they begin to fail 8 to 10 years down the road, they are long gone...they don't really deal with the fall out, but you do...
MI 1600 Series CostCan you please give me quotes for these 2 series? Quantity: 40ea.
[Site Editor's Answer]Natalie
MI 1650 Series ReviewsI came across your site while doing some research on vinyl vs wood windows. My house currently has single-hung Andersen wood windows (unsure of model) that were probably installed pre-1998.
[Site Editor's Answer]Hi there, so of the three quotes you have, the Berkshire Elite is the one I would go with -- a solid mid range window. Assuming the installer or installation company has a good to great reputation, these should do the trick. They aren't the best out there, but it is a solid mid range choice. I probably wouldn't put an Alliance Belmont or an MI 1650 Series in my own home to be honest.
MI 1650 Double Hung FixMy name is Tim Foster and I had bought windows MI 1650 double hung triple pane (unit size – 39.5” w x 37”) . I was wondering if there is a way to adjust the open height of the window as there is not enough opening to put a window air conditioner. The window only opens to 11.5”. There is a good three to four inches at the top but there is a stopper that will not allow it to go any higher. I only need 1-1.5 inches.
[Website Editor Reply]Tim, the only option is to take out the rubber stop (now it escapes me how that window is set up) and see if this gives you any more play. The issue is always that the hardware at the top stops when it hits the frame. My advise would be to find a local window repair person on yelp and see if they will come out and offer a solution -- they might have a creative fix for you.
MI Windows ComplaintsHello! I recently had a company put in replacements in Springfield OH. Contract said I would be getting Mezzo. Well after the fact I learned they were MI. I felt deceived. Owner of window company said these are better windows and from what I've read that is not the case. Can you tell me your thoughts on the comparison and how I should handle this dispute? Thanks so much.
[Website Editor Reply]Zee, I certainly understand why you feel deceived. I would put the Mezzo above the MI 1680 series, but I don't have the energy efficiency ratings to back that up. They are relatively close to one another, but I like the Alside Mezzo reviews more than the MI1680. He might have had different experiences. Regardless, that is fraudulent business practices.
[Zee's Reply]Thanks for your response. I have came to an agreement and they are giving me 15% off the order of the four windows which comes to $327. I too have came to conclusion they're similar in quality. I read that Window World uses those two windows and puts their stickers on them. The company seems to have a good warranty on them so I guess time will tell.
MI 1650 Series vs. Simonton 5500Hello, I am in process of doing roof windows and gutters and doors. I am ok with all with my contractor but had concerns about windows he selected in bid after reading reviews. He recommended mi 1650 I believe they were. Asked to quote different windows and he did. He came back with Provia Aspect Windows and quoted both of an upgrade on 2500.00 more than original quote of 20k installed.
[Site Editor's Answer]The move from the MI 1650 series to either the ProVia Aspect or the Simonton 5500 is without question worth the additional $2500. Frankly I'm surprised that the upgrade cost from a builder grade window to these mid range windows isn't more.
MI Windows vs AtriumWe are replacing 24 wood-frame windows -- mostly double-hung -- in a 19 - 20 year-old house in southeastern Virginia. One contractor quoted $11,900 for MI-1650 windows. Another quoted $14,300 for Atrium Series 40 windows. In general, MI appear to get a low quality rating on various websites. What do you think about these quotes?
[Site Editor's Response]Frank, you are right about MI, they are builder grade and you can do better. Atrium windows are decent, but I think you should keep going on your search for something that's going to offer you better long term value.
MI Cutting Edge 1650 WindowsI had whole house window replacement (25 units) in September, 2008 with subject model. They had a ten year warranty. To date, three have failed seals. The installation contractor is no longer in business and unreachable. Can anyone suggest a reputable contractor to replace the windows? I would prefer the same model for conformity's sake. Otherwise, suggest a higher grade brand with a like or similar appearance to the subject model. Thanks.
Get Our Recommended Window List Also please consider filling out the free form on our site for 3 quality window price quotes — it’s how we afford to provide free consumer information. We’re not incentivized by ANY company and will help you with ANY questions you might have, and help you navigate ANY bids you receive. That’s our guarantee to you! dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
MI Windows Reviews :: 1850 Series-- Estimated MI 1850 Price: $500 to $650 installed --
MI Windows Reviews In TexasTim, Aloha! My wife and I live in Hawaii at present but are working with a custom builder in New Braunfels, Texas to build our retirement home.
[Website Editor Reply]Stan, in Texas I would highly recommend taking a look at an aluminum window from Don Young. They also make a decent vinyl window.
MI Windows Reviews :: 3500 Series-- Estimated MI 3500 Price: $500 to $650 installed --
MI Windows LawsuitGood morning , I was just googling info about MI Single Hung Vinyl windows and came across your blog which I found informative.
[Website Editor Reply]Beyshinah, I consider the MI3500 series a mid range vinyl window. Not something I would expect to last for 40 years, but with quality installation, I would think it should hold up well. I don’t know the energy efficiency details of the 3500 series off hand — the store or rep should have that info on lock as they sell it everyday.
[Beyshinah's Reply]Thanks for responding so quickly! I just saw this post about the MI Windows lawsuit...
MI Windows vs AndersenHello Dane, I am considering the MI 3500 window or the Andersen 100 series for new construction. What are thoughts on the above two windows? I haven’t found the MI 3500 to touch, but did find the Home Depot Andersen 100 window. I noticed a little extra play once the window was in the lock position and wasn’t really impressed with the lock mechanism. The half screen wasn’t a locking screen and the frame looked a little flimsy. Please share your thoughts.
[Website Editor Reply]Tim, while I wouldn't say the Andersen 100 is the best window out there, I would put it above almost anything that MI makes. For me, the Andersen 100 series is the better of the two windows. Sometimes those HD window samples aren't the best because they get so much play, but I also don't like that you didn't like the window. That's never a good sign...
Replacement Window Price Difference?Tim, I have read through your site extensively to educate myself on windows. I was hoping you could offer your opinion about new home construction windows. Both builders we have interviewed installed MIs as part of their base price. Builder one uses MI 4500 and quoted us a price of $4500 to upgrade to Anderson 100 series.
[Website Editor Reply]Hi Deb, I can't say why there would be such a big price between builder 1 and 2, but perhaps 2 doesn't get very good pricing because they don't use the Andersen 100 very often. That's a possibility.
[Deb's Reply]Thank you so much for your quick response. I hope you had a good Fourth of July weekend. My realtor called builder 2 and pushed on Sunrise Windows again. He got a firm “No, not going to happen.” He then asked about the Anderson window price quote and was told it was just an estimate. I have given the builder details on exactly what is wanted, so waiting now for a more accurate quote. Builder 1 was open to exploring the possible use of Sunrise. This has been very frustrating, so again I appreciate the feedback from you.
Mi Windows Reviews : 3500 SeriesWe have been replacing our windows a few at a time. I bought the Mi 3500 single hungs. I was assured that these were very good. Over the past 3 or 4 years, we have started getting love bugs. This year, I noticed some coming in the house. There have been well over a hundred. They're only coming through the new ones, not my old ones.
[Website Editor Reply]Vicky, if bugs are getting through, I would think it was the result of poor installation instead of the windows themselves. Try to document the bugs getting through if possible prior to anyone coming out.
MI 3540 Series QuoteMy contractor recently quoted me on the above windows, which I never heard of, nor can I find on their site. Was just wondering if you ever heard of them or know what type of quality they are.
[Website Editor Reply]Terri, the bid you have is for the MI 3540 series, which is a single hung window unit and one of MI's better models. I would consider it a decent mid range vinyl window. MI is typically considered a builder grade window manufacturer. Not really thought of as a high quality manufacturer in most industry pros opinion. They do sell lots of windows though.
MI 3500 WindowsI don't see any consumer feed back on these windows. I assume it is because the consumers are experiencing the same worry free performance and maintenance we have enjoyed since their installation.
MI Windows Reviews :: V4000 SeriesThe V4000 series is really the relabeled Sunrise Vanguard series. MI purchased Sunrise in 2021 and they are now marketing them under the MI name, but has not touched the production process. This is an excellent window and one that I would recommend wholeheartedly given a fair price point. I would give the MI V4000 Series a out of 5 stars rating.
MI Sunrise QuestionHi Dane, received a quote for my project of 30 windows that need to be replaced and considering using the MI Sunrise windows for it. It would be the V4000 Sunrise window, now offered by MI.
Heard bad things about MI so am a bit worried about the quality of the window now being manufactured/dealt with by MI instead of by Sunrise directly.
[Site Editor's Answer]Wow, you are the second person in the past week that has brought this to my attention that Sunrise and MI have now totally merged. This is what I know. The Sunrise Vanguard series is now being called the V4000. This series is excellent...has MI kept everything the same with the manufacturing process...ugh I don't know, but I looked at the product brochure(s) and the air infiltration rates are the same as previously. I believe that MI has simply integrated Sunrise into the fold and kept the quality the same.
MI Sunrise V4000Hi Dane and thanks for the quick reply. Glad I have two good options - both install with good reviews - that was a requirement for me since I def don't want to search for my own contractor. I started with a pretty extensive spreadsheet of window vendors and as I learned more, quickly eliminated anyone who didn't do their own installation with a dedicated team of installers.
[Site Editor's Answer]Greg, great, they get excellent reviews -- if they have the ProVia Doors, then I'd probably stick with the ProVia Aspect. With their timeline, you might want to ask what it would cost to upgrade to the ProVia Endure -- it's a bit better window in my opinion. Heavier and with a few nice little upgrades. "ProVia Doors Reviews
MI Windows Reviews On The V4000Dane, I wanted a second quote on Sunrise v4000. Another Chicagoland supplier came out quote at the end of last week. Got the number back, $24,200 apples to apples. They also echoed the same on no manufacturing changes on the line, only difference is they come with MI stickers off the truck. I was told there have been no changes from MI to the sunrise windows themselves.
[Site Editor's Answer]Brian, that's great to hear - I would have been very disappointed if they would have robbed my of my Sunrise-recommendation :) Thank you for confirming that for me, it will help lots of future homeowners!
MI 4000 SeriesHi Dane, I have a rental property and need to purchase 6 windows asap. I will probably sell the property in the next 4-6 years. I have a local handyman who has done work for me in the past and he is recommending Sprouse windows. I don’t know the series or if they even have a series. His price is around $4,200.00 (windows and installation). He’s a sharp guy and does nice work. I also have a quote from our local MI Windows dealer on the MI 4000 series. The quote was around $4,300 a year ago. I’m waiting on a revised quote from the dealer. I’m a little concerned about warranties, guarantees, etc. I’m open to hearing your thoughts. Thank you for your time and consideration.
[Site Editor's Answer]Jan, I’ve never heard of Sprouse. Looked up Sprouse Windows Reviews and they don’t seem to get all that good of reviews. I think I’d go with the MI 4000 Windows — if you’re moving in 4 to 6 years, you should be just fine with MI over that period of time. I wouldn’t worry too much about the warranty with that timeline — as long as they go in well and there aren’t any ordering or installation issues (which would crop up very quickly), then you should be just fine for the next 10 years.
Get Our Recommended Window List Also please consider filling out the free form on our site for 3 quality window price quotes — it’s how we afford to provide free consumer information. We’re not incentivized by ANY company and will help you with ANY questions you might have, and help you navigate ANY bids you receive. That’s our guarantee to you! dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
MI Storm Windows Reviews-- Estimated MI Storm Window Price: $700 to $900 installed --
MI Storm Armor WindowsI'm looking to purchase a home from a builder in Fl. who has won "Builder of The Year" awards on multiple occasions. Im a bit concerned because he will be using the MI high impact windows (Storm Armor)if I purchase the home. I cannot find any reviews on these MI windows and was wondering if these are rated any better than the non-impact windows they sell. Thanks for your feedback.
[Site Editor's Response]Don, MI does not have a stellar reputation in the industry, but I know lots of builders like them, I'm assuming because they get them at a good price and they figure the windows are "good enough." I don't know much about the Storm Armor series. I'm sure they are better than the standard MI vinyl windows, but that isn't a recommendation by any means.
MI Windows Reviews :: Professional Series-- Estimated MI Professional Series Price: $600 to $750 installed --
MI Windows Reviews Pro SeriesMy MIs are leaky and now I have lots of damage to the walls and frames and sills. Need professional opinion so we don't repeat. My daughter bought a "flipped house" last April in Northern California. Flippers replaced old aluminum windows with MI Professional Series retro fit series into old frames. The rains came and water flowed into interior of walls around frames and when vinyl white cover strip at top of window was pulled back water flowed in when tested. Thank you for your MI windows and doors reviews, they are much appreciated!
[Site Editor's Answer]Hi, I would get a bunch of window companies out there to take a look and let them give you their bids and see what brands they carry.
MI Windows Reviews :: Energy Core Series-- Estimated MI Energy Core Price: $650 to $800 installed --
MI EnergyCore Series ReviewsHello Dane, I am looking to replace all 15 windows in my 1955-year house in Fort Worth/Dallas Texas area. I'm looking for a vinyl window that provides energy efficiency at an economical cost. I'm 59 years old and this is my forever home as far as I know.
[Website Editor Reply]Greg, the EnergyCore is made by MI and is their top of the line window. Not a bad window, although I don't know all about it. The window I do know about is the NT Presidential series, which is a very good window. If this were my forever home, this would top my list...although I do agree that the EnergyCore bid is tempting. Plus M&M Door and Window has really good reviews, which makes me think you are in good hands.
MI Energy Core ReviewsWe are in the process of designing with our builder a new home in the Kansas City area. We are generally very pleased with our builder, with his reputation, and with the quality of his work.
[Site Editor's Answer]Hey Rich, so in general MI is a builder grade window that just doesn't measure up to other top tier vinyl windows on the market. The one series that does though is the MI Energy Core series. This is a very solid window and the one that I would consider having in my house. I would ask him to price out this option and see if it's within your budget.
[Rich's Reply]I'm willing to pay pretty much whatever the Energy Core windows cost as long as I can be sure that those are going to be good, energy efficient replacement windows. But if I pay for those windows and they really are not very good, then I'm going to be very disappointed!
[Site Editor's Answer]If this were my project, I would press my contractor and ask what other windows he has access to...here is my good and great windows list...no MI windows included...
MI Windows Reviews : Energy CoreFrom reading your answers to homeowners questions about the MI window… both of you clearly don’t like it. I’d like to know why. You don’t exactly say in any of your answers and most of your comments include something along the lines of, “I don’t have the data to back this up but I would go with window A or B over the MI window”.
[Website Editor Reply]Beau, I think the MI Energy Core is a solid window. But...you are correct, I don't think much of their windows. MI makes and sells most of their windows to builders and contractors who look to cut costs where they can.
MI Energy Core vs Simonton WindowsDear Dane, we are in the process of replacing windows and have gotten a quote from an installer for MI Energy Core windows. However, after doing some research online, it appears that MI are a lower quality window and have gotten some bad reviews (as well as a class action lawsuit).
[Site Editor's Response]Melissa, I would have to agree to the MI is not typically on many contractors top 10 list. The Energy Core is not bad though, although I haven't seen numbers on it. In terms of good mid range vinyl windows on the west, I would say look at >Milgard, Amerimax and Anlin. Milgard will be available for sure, Amerimax possibly and I don't know whether Anlin has reps in your area.
MI Windows Reviews :: Homemaker Series-- Estimated MI Homemaker Price: $550 to $700 installed --
MI Windows Reviews On The Homemaker SeriesThank you for all that information. A local business recommended MI which I believe bought out Milgard. Any information on their homemakers series as far as quality goes? Appreciate your knowledge and expertise on this.
I would like to go with Amerimax craftsman but I still have not been able to get a hold of them I will continue to try
[Website Editor Reply]Joseph, I would suggesting steering clear of MI myself. They are more or less all builder grade series -- not totally true with their more premium series, but as a brand, I just don't think much of them. The Zen branch in your area should carry Soft-Lite, which is one of the best vinyl window brands out there in my opinion.
MI Windows Reviews :: Addison SeriesMI Addison Window RatingsSo I talked to my sales guy at Window Nation about the brand. The Addison model are made by MI out of reading and only have the minimum standard on the air infiltration rate of .3. How big of a difference is .3 to .06 in reality? I do like the lifetime transferable warranty they have, but don't know anything about the window company they are using in my area.
[Website Editor Reply]Steve, in my opinion MI has never been all that reliable a brand. It has always been more of a builder grade company. However, their premium EneryCore series is a good option. They purchased Sunrise in 2020 and I'm wondering if they aren't relabeling this as the Addison -- by the way, saying the AI is less than .30 is like saying that a Hyundai drives like a Tesla -- there is a massive difference between .30 and .06 -- anything over .12 is not considered a top tier series in my opinion. The Soft-Lite Classic (AI .06 ironically) is quite a good window and a proven performer by a very solid company. How does that Zen branch do in terms of the online reviews/ratings?
General MI Windows ReviewsMI vs SunriseI just found out that MI bought Sunrise in December 2020. Given MI's questionable reputation for quality, wouldn't this give you pause on the restorations? Or have you put some Restoration series in during late 2022 or 2023?
[Site Editor's Answer]Jason, I haven’t heard anything negative from consumers on the brand and from what I know — which isn’t much — the company left the brand and factory alone to make the windows as they always have. It’s a point well taken and I have been monitoring any changes — but so far, I haven’t heard of anything….
MI Windows vs IdealHey are they any contractors you recommend in the 07072 area. I'm looking to replace about 10 units this year. Also would you recommend MI or Ideal from Bayonne NJ?
[Website Editor Reply]Azeem, between MI and Ideal, I would recommend Ideal without question. MI makes mostly a builder grade window.
MI Windows Reviews vs SunriseI have read the questions about MI and your responses regarding their quality, or lack thereof. You recommended Sunrise, but I read they were acquired by MI in Dec. 2020. So, here are my questions: 1) Are MI sliding doors…in particular, the 1600 series….also of low-grade builder grade, and as such you would not recommend? 2) Since Sunrise was acquired by MI, do you still recommend Sunrise? 3) I live in the Tampa area; what sliding door manufacturer(s) do you recommend for this area.
[Site Editor's Answer]Rodney, this is an excellent question and the answer to will Sunrise window quality go down after being acquired by Sunrise is I don’t know. My understanding is that MI acquired their assets but has allowed them to keep making windows using the same parts and components…but will his change somewhere down the line? I don’t have the answer to this. I am still recommending them based on what I know, but the first time I head of an slippage in quality or manufacturing, I will be adding this to any and all recommendations.
MI Windows ComplaintsHi Tim, we are in the process of replacing some MI that are about 7 or 8 years old, side seals, hanging off the inside, wind coming in, water leaks, etc. Been doing research on some better window options and wanted to see your list of recommendations. We live in Southern part of Oklahoma so we get high winds and some extreme heat and cold winds too. Thank you.
[Site Editor's Answer]Jerri, here is my list of recommended brands and options.
MI Windows ReviewsHi Dane, we are looking for replacements for our home. We live north of Houston, Texas, where it is very humid. I can hardly keep up with the mold that forms on the aluminum single panes we have now. We have gotten 2 bids so far, one from Lowe's and the other from an independent contractor. The independent contractor quoted MI, since I was not familiar with them I have been searching for information and came across your site.
[Website Editor Reply]Hi Karen, so I’m not a big fan of either Pella or MI. MI for the quality of window, Pella for the price. I’m just not sure there’s much long term value in either.
MI Windows Are JunkI’m going to be replacing the siding and windows on my house. The contractor quoted MI but I have since found all of the negative reviews so ask for a price on different manufacturers. People are saying mi windows are junk. So they are going to provide pricing using Milgard and Krestmark. What is the consensus on these two manufacturers?
[Website Editor Reply]Toby, with the exception of the Energy Core series from MI, I'd say the company makes mostly builder grade window series. Not something you want to put in your home to maximize long term value.
MI Windows vs PellaDear Sirs, we are building a new house in Kansas City and our builder uses M&I and Pella in his model homes. The house ours is patterned from used M&I. We are struggling to get comfortable with them and are leaning toward insisting on using the Pella brand. We have never heard of M&I and my research shows a class action suit brought in 2012 and settled in 2015. Red flag indeed -- MI windows are junk, I've heard this from numerous friends. Can you give us your opinion of both M&I and Pella and your recommendation, please.
[Site Editor's Answer]Hi Morey, I would agree with you that there are immediate red flags when it comes to MI windows. They are builder grade for the most part, meaning builders buy them because they are cheaply made and they save money by using them. The problems often rear their heads come year 7 or 8 or 9 when you begin to get little things happening (I'm not saying this will happen to you, but I deal with enough consumer's complaints to say this CAN happen) -- broken seals, locks that don't work right, sashes that don't smoothly open, etc. By this point, your builder has obviously moved on and MI isn't overly concerned about addressing your problem because they are in the business of selling more vinyl windows.
MI Windows ReviewsHi Dane & Tim, I am having a room addition done on my house. The GC stated in the contract that Milgrd Tuscany window and sliding door would be installed. He brought out and installed Mi window and slider, when I asked what was up, he said they are comparable. As I have started researching online, I do not see a lot of favorable reviews of Mi, and a class action suit. I am unable to find a head to head comparison. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
[Site Editor's Answer]Tom, I don't know that many people who would consider MI to be comparable to Milgard. MI is typically thought of as selling mostly builder grade series, i.e. poor quality . I think the only exception I might put here is their Energy Core series. So what MI window did he put in? If the contract says Milgard and suddenly you have MI windows in your house, that's a serious red flag.
Mi Windows vs MilgardIs MI comparable in quality to Milgard window? Are MI windows are junk?
[Site Editor's Answer]Yvette, Milgard are going to be better than MI in my opinion. I really like the Milgard, while the MI is considered more of a builder grade option. But as to the question of are MI windows are junk -- I'd say as long as you stick to their premium series, you should be fine.
MI vs Ply Gem WindowsWe are in the process of renovating a 1950s mid century modern house in Houston, TX. Our builder has given us the option of MI or Ply Gem windows. Can you tell me which would be better? Thanks!
[Site Editor's Answer]Katherine, Ply Gem is clearly the better of those two brands. Frankly, MI is a builder grade window that is not particularly made well in terms of long term durability. I would avoid the Ply Gem Contractor and would insist on either the Ply Gem Pro or better yet the Premium Ply Gem vinyl window. It's quite good.
Mid Range Vinyl OptionsWe had Oxford windows but had a house fire and the basement windows need to be replaced. There are 3 smaller windows, and we will now have 2 egress windows. Our contractor wants to replace them with MI, but from the reviews I've been reading, it's not a good nor comparable replacement. What would you recommend that would be in the mid-range and still look nice?
[Site Editor's Response]I would agree with you that MI are not a high quality window and I would recommend using another replacement window for your project. Several excellent vinyl window manufactures that produce numerous models (one or two of them will be their mid range series) include Sunrise, Soft-Lite, Okna and Polaris. These brands tend to be located in the mid west and northeast states and will not be available in the west.
MI vs CertainTeedHave you heard of MI Windows? www.miwd.com
[Site Editor's Response]Mark, I have heard of MI, although they don't have a very good reputation either. They are a large building supply company that owns CertainTeed. While CertainTeed has a good reputation in terms of their siding products, their windows do not have the best reputation in the industry.
MIWD Windows ReviewsDane, We need to replace all of our windows in a twleve year old house that was built on speculation and now has water coming in through the frames where the joints have opened up. We have spoken to an MIWD representative, but I see that you don't particularly like those windows. We are not looking to go "cheap" here, but we do want to make sure we don't throw our money away. The windows we now have are Jeld-Wen and they have not held up well in this relatively new house.
[Site Editor's Response]Jeff, if you are looking for the strongest windows that can hold up to harsh conditions, you may want to look at an aluminum clad window. The problem is they aren't very energy efficient. Milgard makes a good aluminum window, Don Young out of Houston might be available in your area and they make a good aluminum window as well.
MI vs American JewelI need to replace an old bathroom metal frame slider window. I have quotes at the same price for an American Jewel 1500 vinyl double hung with standard double insulated clear tempered glass. For the same price, I have an MI 1555 vinyl double hung insulated glass. Which window is better? I see many of your reviews do not like the American Jewel.
[Site Editor's Response]Trudy, neither MI or American Jewel tend to get very good marks in terms of a quality vinyl replacement window. You are obviously on the East Coast and there are some nice options, including Soft-Lite, Sunrise and Polaris. These three vinyl window manufacturers should be available through one or more local companies who service your area. I would suggest continuing your search in order to at least see how the prices compare, they are going to be more expensive, but I can pretty much guarantee that these windows will provide better long term value for you over time.
MI vs Sunrise WindowsWhich window would you recommend? Sunrise, BF RICH OR MI ?
[Site Editor's Response]Chris, you've asked an easy question to answer. The Sunrise is the better brand by far over the MI. BF Rich is not bad, but no where near the Sunrise. Sunrise offers a number of different models, all of which are very good except perhaps their entry level Essentials model. The Standard Sunrise is a very good window. You can order this and then choose any ala carte upgrades that suit your particular needs and budget.
MI Windows vs PGTI am building a new home and looking at windows. The sub originally quoted MI, now Jeldwen and PGT, all vinyl, Should I go with Vinyl or another type and which would be rec. pending pricing.
[Site Editor's Response]Rob, congrats on building a new home, that's exciting stuff...and also very stressful so I hope you are enjoying the process as much as possible. In terms of quality, MI are near the bottom and not a brand I would ever recommend. Jeld Wen has an okay reputation in terms of windows, and a very good reputation in terms of doors. I like PGT a lot, obviously depending on the model and features you choose.
MI Windows vs ViwincoViwinco makes a lower end window. They're on par with Silverline or MI. If you need a cheap window, they aren't the worst you can do, but if you're going to live in the home for a while, try for something a little better. Oknas or Sunrise, Himark, Softlite, all of them are so much better in terms of performance and looks. Of course, sometimes that just is out of budget, and you have to do what you have to do. Really, you want a window with a u-factor of .28 or lower, a DP rating of at least 50, and air leakage under 0.07.
MI Windows vs Andersen WindowsI'm getting two windows replaced and every quote I get seems to confuse me more. I can't afford to do all of them at once so I am only doing the two worst "leakers". I have quotes for 3 Milgards or an Amerimax with 2 MIs. But when I went to look at the Milgards again to try and decide, I saw the Andersen Series 100 and loved them. One installer said they are really good for the weather here in Arizona.
[Contractor Response]I'm in LA, not exactly the same weather but not too far off. The >Milgards and Amerimax are all good choices. The Andersens, I'm not so sure about. They have a new Silverline that might be worth it and might not.
Builder GradeMI are made for builders. They're cheap, designed to look good just long enough to sell the house. They aren't a window that anyone wants to live with. You'll be stuck dealing with flimsy materials and poorly made frames. You'll be replacing them in 5 years.
MI Window WarrantyMy house has MIs that are about 15 years old. I've heard they have a lot of problems, but I've been impressed with mine. Their warranty was better than a lot that I looked at and when I did have a minor problem they stood by it with no arguing. They replaced 15 year old glass at no cost to us, and not everyone would do that.
Xacts vs Ply GemAllied Building Products has a private label window called "Cutting Edge" and I'm trying to figure out who manufactures it. Any ideas?
[Contractor Response]They're made by MI. They are also sometimes called Xacts. They are a cheap, builder grade window designed to be the lowest cost possible. If you have your heart set on Allied, look at the Ply Gem Premium or Great Lakes 5000. Before you buy anything take the time to check out Okna, Sunrise, Polaris, and SoftLite. With any of those, you'll be getting a window that's worth your money and won't fall apart in five years.
Good Customer ExperienceWe looked at three options when we got our windows. Pella from Lowes, Simonton or CertainTeed from Home Depot, all with a local installer. We liked the Simontons, but finally decided on MI Xacts, which are made by the same guys who make CertainTeeds. They are identical to the Bryn Mawr IIIs. The installation was great, plus the installer had worked with the windows before. He didn't cut corners and the whole thing was done neatly and carefully. He did the trimming and priming and some really nice caulking and touch up work. The windows all work really well and look great. Plus it only cost us $3600 for 9 replacements.
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