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dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
Window Universe Reviews vs Vytex
Dane, we need to replace two patio doors and 22 windows (1 half round, 1 picture, and 20 double hungs). We're in Ohio and have narrowed our search down to two different companies/options. Which do you think is the better deal?
Okna Eco-Pro by Window Universe
Doors are Okna Elegante
Price Bid: $27k
Vytex Fortis by Home Exteriors
Doors are Vytex 7000
Price Bid: $22K
Dan - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Dan, both decent options in my opinion. The Okna 600 series is the clear winner, but that price spread is not nothing. If this is your forever home, then the 600 series is the winner. Under 10 years and the Fortis is the winner. Between these two points, and it's a bit of a coin flip. The companies doing the work would play a big role in my decision as well.
(Vytex Windows Cost)
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Gentek Signature Elite vs Soft-lite Imperial LS
Hi Dane, I have seen some reviews on the Softlite Imperial Elite window having seal failure after a few years and not honoring the warranty. They have a stainless steel spacer. Have you any advice? Sorry to bother you again. What do you think of the Gentek signature elite window. It is offered by window universe, are you familiar with them?
Kevin - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Kevin, there are poor reviews on pretty much all windows out there - that's kind of the nature of the beast. The Soft-Lite Imperial Elite or LS is a very well made series. It is a full step above the Gentek Signature Elite. The Gentek isn't a bad window by any means, but it is a solid mid range window, while the Imperial LS is a top tier window in my opinion.
You always take a chance when you buy windows that you will get a dud in there, but I would much rather take the chance on the Soft-Lite than the Gentek. My two cents. Soft-Lite has as good a track record as any in the vinyl window business.
Window Universe is relatively new. When I look them up using "Window Universe reviews" they get sorta kinda so-so reviews. Makes me hesitant...
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Window Universe Reviews
Thanks Dane!! Great insight. Window Universe did email me back with a quote for the door which I’ll attach a snapshot of. If you remember this is for 17 windows and 1 door. They’re recommending a steel ProVia door. So the total for them is $1.2K
The other differences between them and Quality Windows and Doors price is that QWD included full screens - $544 option and colonial grids - a $833 option, both of which were included in their $19.5K quote from Quality for the. I also did follow up and they are a certified Harvey Elite installer.
I found the company through a town Facebook group, they had lots of recommendations, and I’ve seen the companies signs and trucks around town. They seem to have mostly positive reviews, and the company is a father/son operation. They’ve been in town for about 35 years from what they said.
As for the Reliabilt Lowe’s quote, we’re not sure how long we’ll be in this house, so my instinct is to go with the Harvey and set us up for the long term.
Thank you again for the insight, honesty and expertise! It’s a great resource to have.
Brendan - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Brendan, ProVia does make a very good door. (ProVia Doors Reviews) But it doesn like the QWD added those two options in the $19.5K, which is quite nice and makes the bid price that much more fair.
I like the 35 years in business, that is great!
I think your instincts are correct to go with the Harvey certified installer.
Best of luck (and if you want to add us to the facebook group as a replacement window resource / advise source, I would love it!)
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Window Universe Reviews
Dane, thank you for getting back to me. The Gentek windows are through Window Universe, who says they use the manufacturers installers not their own? I couldn't really find any information on that, but if that's the case it does seem like 1 less person to point fingers at if anything goes wrong or warranty issues.
PGT would be with a local company that has good reviews (4.2 stars) on Yelp and Google, Family owned business that's been around about 40 years. I'm leaning towards the Gentek mostly because the manufacturer installers are doing it, unless you think this is just a sales gimmick and it's really just some random contractor?
Wendy - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Window Universe gets good reviews -- I like that call. Maybe just ask for their best installation team -- I always say my wife is SUPER particular and this has to be done perfectly. (Really this is me on home improvement projects but it sounds better when it's not me...) With quality installation, the Gentek should serve you well for a long time to come.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Window Universe Reviews Orlando
Dane, thank you so much for all the information on your site, trying to navigate all of this is a nightmare and there is no real true way to compare one versus another. I live in Orlando, FL and was looking to upgrade my old builders grades from 2004 (single pane, metal frame, super cheap)
I have 14 double hungs with 2 half circles, for a total of 16. Below are the quotes I received:
Lowes - Pella Defender $17528
Window Shoppe - PGT Energyvue Windows $16650
Low E, Argon, no grids, half screens, child locks on upstairs windows, includes stucco repair and trim on vinyl, nailing fin j channels on upstairs (vinyl siding) they also quoted me $3400 to replace my single pane sliding door with a PGT Energyvue Slider or French door as well.
Window Universe - Gentek Signature Elite Windows $13727
Energy star glass package, double strength glass upgrade, foam insulated frame, high strength reinforced sashes, sliding half screen. Haven't had them quote me for the slider or other doors yet, but will see if they can
From reviews on your website I am sort of leaning towards the PGT or Gentek, but would appreciate any feedback or insight. Thank you in advance!!
Erik - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Erik, I'm also definitely leaning toward the PGT EnergyVue or the Gentek Signature Elite.
I think for me this would come down to which of these two companies had the better reviews/ratings from local review sites.
Then I would take into consideration on how long you plan to be in the home. Anything over 8 to 10 years, would push me toward the PGT EnergyVue, anything under would push me toward the Signature Elite.
If it all comes out even in the wash from these two factors, then I would go with the less expensive bid. But again, the company doing the work would be a big factor for me.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Window Universe Reviews
Thank you Dane. One more idea...I also have a quote from Window Universe for Gentek Signature Elite for about 23-24K. This would actually be my lowest bid, beating even the Window Nation prices. I plan to stay in the house for 15 years. The three bids I'm still considering are the Kensington Quantum2 windows, the Pella 250 series and this signature elite offer. Of these three where do you lean? Thanks again, Gene
P.S. I can't figure out how to post to your forum without filling out the bid request form again which I don't want to do since I already got bids (which were great by the way).
Renee - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor Answers]
Gene, the Gentek Signature Elite is a good window and this would be my pick over the Window Nation bid -- as long as the Window Universe has good company reviews. I think you have a great option for the price and given your timeline in the home.
I will totally use a different name on the site and I do appreciate you filling out the form. It sounds like you have a very good option for your home. Congrats!
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Window Universe Reviews Orlando Florida
Hello again Dane
1. An update on Window Universe, I had a quote that expired 4/22 for 9 windows, triple pane, Argon, double strength glass, single hung,installation; total cost $6,500. I just requested an updated quote and they increased to $9,700 ($1,055 each) these were Berkshire Elite
2. Just got a quote from The Window Source, Alside Mezzo, for $765 each. Double pane, extra strength glass, double hung, inside flat grids.. I see from your site what the Mezzo isn’t really recommended? Based on your page I have asked them for a quote on their Insignia or Preservation series but they don’t offer
3. I have a quote visit scheduled on Friday with Baxter Windows Orlando, will advise
I do have a question about your online quote tool. When I put in details for 10 windows, double hung, etc a price of around $5,700 (installed) pops up. But when I enter my details nothing happens to receive a quote. LoL I would love to get a price quote in the $500-600 per window range.
Bill - Homeowner - from 2022
[Website Editor Reply]
Bill,
1. sounded decent until they jacked that price up. $1055 is way too much for the Berkshire Elite in my opinion.
2. The Mezzo is a mid range window in my opinion. It's not a bad option at all -- but there are better windows out there, but perhaps not in your area.
My calculator is low given what we've seen in the past couple of years with costs -- I need to retweek it -- it's on my long todo list! I wish that good windows were still in that price range, but they have jumped to price points that I'm still having a hard time wrapping my head around...
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Windows Universe vs Universal Windows
Tim, thank you for recent suggestions on brands. I filled out the form and received the following quotes.
10 double hungs
2 transoms
1 sliding glass door
Window Nation Addison Series - $15,059
LEI Revelation Series - $13,529
Universal Windows Polaris UniShield Plus - $16,788
Window Universe Gentek Signature Elite - $12,754
Would you recommend any of these?!
Mark - Homeowner - from 2022
[Site Editor Answers]
Mark, I've never heard of the WN Addison series -- and it's in two of your bids! Strange. I looked at the brochure and it looks like it has some solid features, but I don't know enough about it to say one way or the other.
The Polaris UniShield Plus is a relabeled Polaris Thermalweld -- quite a good option and the forerunner of what I'm seeing on your lead sheet. The Gentek Signature Elite is a good mid range option, but I'd put it below the other two (I'm still unsure about the Addison, but the more I'm looking at the features, the more I think it's probably on par with the Polaris Thermalweld.)
I think the next step is to rate the installation companies and use that to make a judgement on the best long term value for you -- where are you located again?
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Thank u so much. I also got a quote for Alside Ultramaxx tonite for $13,800.
Hmmm, I'm not as excited about the reviews for these companies as I was hoping to be.
Universal Windows Indianapolis gets pretty poor reviews
Windows Universe Indianapolis gets good reviews
LEI Home Improvement (lei home enhancements indianapolis reviews) does not get good reviews
Window Nation Indianapolis gets okay reviews
Two options you might want to check out include Amos Exteriors and Mr. Window Company -- they sell Soft-Lite and Okna respectively...
Window Universe Complaint
Hello Dane, I am not sure that you publish negative reviews but I feel obliged to communicate my experience with Window Universe in the Boston area. I ordered three windows: two pictures and one small double hung. The order process was detailed and Drew was helpful.
Over the course of one year, I have had five (yes, five) failed installation dates because the correct windows were not delivered. The first three install dates brought the wrong ones The fourth installation had one correct picture window, the other incorrect, and a lost double hung. The fifth install date brought the lost double hung and three (yes, three) incorrect picture windows - evidently an overzealous attempt at guessing at what might work. The three incorrect windows are still in my garage awaiting pickup.
The issue that I would like to communicate to your readers is this: Window Universe is an "order taking" organization. They do well at filling out the form. Once the form is sent to the manufacturer there is no follow up and absolutely no management. The customer gets whatever product the manufacturer made and no one ever even looks at it to check if it is correct. The installers arrive and are embarrassed. (I found them experienced and capable.) Five times.
I wrote to the CEO asking for corrective action. The answer I got was either try for number six or walk away, he supports either path. In his own words:
"It seems the manufacturer is having some issue in correctly processing your order in their system which has lead to the multiple incorrect windows that you've seen.
That's a pretty unusual situation which I believe is why they were optimistic that it had been addressed and that a correct window would arrive with the next reorder. Obviously that didn't happen and it certainly has created a substantial expense and frustration for everyone involved. You are definitely right about that."
Your readers should know they are buying from order takers, without concern for what gets shipped, and with zero management or oversight. If something goes wrong, point the finger at the manufacturer and move on.
John - Homeowner - from 2022
Window Universe Signature Elite Cost
Hi Dane, I am looking for 4 replacements and 2 transoms in my townhouse. This is a rental property but I wanted to keep it for another 10 years. I have received two quotes : 1) Window Universe for 4 signature elite double hungs and 2 transoms total price $6851. They only do vinyl windows which is fine with me because they have a color that will match my exterior. 2) Pella windows is quoting $18946.55 for 4 lifestyle double hungs +2 transoms. Their windows are wood with aluminum. They cannot do vinyl for me because they only had the three basic colors for vinyl none of which would match my exterior. This is such a huge discrepancy and cost so what do you think? Thanks
Jeane - Homeowner - from 2022
[Website Editor Reply]
Jeane, if you're keeping this as a rental property, you definitely don't want to spend $18K for 6 windows (that's a pretty staggering number in general). The Window Universe Signature Elite is definitely the way to go! Make sure that the branch you are using has good reviews who is doing the work.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Window Universe Price Quote
Dane, I am looking at doing a whole house window replacement. I am looking at 14 double hungs, one which will be frosted, one frosted picture window in a bathroom, 5 half circles, and a 6 ft by 8 ft sliding door which leads out to the patio. I have included a copy of a quote given to me by Window Universe. Your thoughts on this or do you have better recommendations. Your time is greatly appreciated.
21 windows total
Total price is $26,500
Thanks.
Don - Homeowner - from 2022
[Site Editor Answers]
Don, I just don't think that 21 windows and a slider on the Berkshire Elite is worth $26K. I would continue the search and put the Window Universe bid on the back burner. Here is my list of recommended brands and options.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Window Universe Price List
Hello Dane, first, THANKS for this service. This is great and I have been reading your site like you have no idea!
Please let me know your insight on the quotes below. My house is 12 years old, but for the last 3 years, most of the windows have been showing condensation. I noticed one or two windows like 3 years ago. Now, most of the windows (except for the frame windows) are foggy with condensation marks (dried).
I started looking for quotes and these are what I've got so far. I included the two sliding doors to check the price while I am at it. The project is for 18 windows (two of which are sliders in the kitchen, the rest are originally single hung), and two Sliding Doors. The doors are not the priority as of now, but it would not be a bad idea if I do them as well. I plan to stay in this house for many years to come (God willing!). The house is located in Northern Virginia (i.e., Woodbrige, VA 22191)
Here are the quotes:
Presidential Exteriors:
18x Vytex Presidential Series (supposedly, Vytex made this style exclusively for Presidential Exteriors only, but I have not been able to confirm the equivalent window from the 3 shown at the Vytex site) - Double hung
Costs:
a) 1-year price: $17,774;
b) One week Deal: $16,000
c) Today cost: $15,000
2x Sliding Doors : ($2k per door) = $4,000
Costs (both doors):
a) 1-year price: $6,680;
b) One week Deal: $5,678
c) Today cost: I did not write it down
Window Universe:
18x Berkshire Elite Double hung = $13,000 (I calculated from the line items)
2x Sliding Doors : ($2k per door) = $4,000
Total: $17,125 (Includes everything e.g., tax and labor. They itemized labor at $4,880 for the whole project).
Window Nation:
18x Vytex Grand View (supposedly, Vytex made this style exclusively for Window Nation, and it is equivalent to the Fortis Series shown at the Vytex site) - Double hung =
Costs:
a) 1-year price: $29,960;
b) "March buy 2-get-2" price: $20,074
c) Today cost: $15,638
d) Today before 6:30pm: $14,782
2x Sliding Doors - Cost Per door:
a) 1-year price: $7,289 (14,578);
b) "March buy 2-get-2" price: $4,883 ($9,766)
c) Today cost: $3,790 ($7,580)
Renewal by Anderson:
18x Anderson windows (exact model not disclosed, but I believe are their signature composite material)
2x Sliding Doors
Costs:
Total project cost: $77,000
Cost after discounts = $54,500
Thanks again and I look forward to your input!
Javier - Homeowner - from 2022
[Website Editor Reply]
Javier, I think you need to find out what the Vytex Presidential series is — I’ve never heard of it…I dislike all that “price today is this, price tomorrow is this…” It’s nonsense for the most part.
The WN window is good. I would go back to them and ask them to give you “today’s price” and you will sign the work order right then. That gets you close to the Window Universe price for a much better quality option. Can’t hurt to ask and I think $17K is a decent price for what you are getting.
The Renewal price is crazy and I don’t love the Berkshire Elite for a long term stay in your home.
If the WN approach doesn’t work, I would maybe keep looking?
[Email dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co for his recommendations]
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
[Javier's Reply]
Hello Dane, THANKS so much for sharing your insight! I really appreciate it.
You are right, I also dislike their strategies but it seems like everyone out there is using the same strategy!
I called Vytex, and they confirmed that the WN model, the Grand View, and the Presidential model that Presidential exterior use are very, very similar windows. Vytex rep also stated they are virtually the same as the Vytex Fortis Series, but with a few very minor touches to make the windows distinct/exclusive!
I will take your list and do some more searching as well as using the link you provided to see what I get.
I will keep you posted!
THANKS again!
Javier - Homeowner - from 2022
Window Universe Reviews
Hey Dane, I'd really appreciate your opinion. I'm in Arlington, VA, and am looking to replace 21 double hungs and a couple of circle tops, and so far have three quotes, all of which are in the ballpark of $17,500, with similar efficiency, and appear to have solid installation/customer service reviews:
Zen Nivana (Soft-Lite Classic Plus), U-factor .27, SHGC .25, Air .08
Provia Endure EN600 series, U-factor .28, SHGC .21, Air .05
Window Universe Berkshire Elite/Revere Barrier XP: U-factor 0.29, SHGC .30, Air .04
Which would you recommend? If we go Zen do you think it's worth the extra $35/window to upgrade to the Lotus (Soft-Lite Pro Series) with fiberglass reinforced sashes and 'BetterVue' Screen Mesh?
There's an Okna dealer nearby but I'm inclined to pass unless you think it's worth pursuing, because I entered my info on Okna windows website and never heard from them. A local Window Nation dealer also carries Soft-Lite but I passed because of terrible reviews, and am not inclined to go with Marvin Elevate fiberglass/wood because they're about twice the price.
Also, we're considering a garden window above the sink in our kitchen (instead of a double hung) but have been surprised at the ~$4k price tag from two different companies for a Provia; welcome any input/experience with them. Since we've gotten varying opinions as to whether or not installing a garden window would jack up our backsplash tile, as the prior owner DIY'd the installation and grouted the tiles directly against the window trim, welcome your take on whether the molding/trim would likely need to be removed for the install.
John - Homeowner - from 2022
[Website Editor Reply]
John, the Provia Endure EN600 series would be my number one pick by quite a bit. Then the Zen Nirvana (I know the Berkshire Elite has a .04 AI, but I feel like they are a bit ingenuous in getting to that number). I would absolutely pay the $35 each to upgrade to the Soft-Lite Pro myself. Read all of our Provia Endure windows reviews.
I would still get the Okna bid if I could just because their windows are so good, but yes that is frustrating that they aren’t getting back to you. I’d pass on the Window Nation based on reviews and the Marvin based on cost.
As far as the garden window, I can’t make a credible call without really seeing it in person. Instead, I might get the Okna, Marvin and WN bid just to see how they would handle this portion of the project. I would look at the bids as three credible opinions on how best to handle the garden window installation.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Window Universe vs Zen Windows
Hi Dane, I have two quotes in Pennsylvania I'd like your opinion on please.
22 double hung
2 smaller picture windows
2 half circles
1 patio door
Window Universe Berkshire Elite $20,807
Zen Windows Philadelphia - Nirvana $21,535
Thoughts on which is the better option? The price really close. The local Zen dealer has good reviews....I can't find much on WU installs although they stated that they are installed from actual factory reps.
Thanks.
Ryan - Homeowner - from 2022
[Website Editor Reply]
Ryan, this isn't really a question for me -- the Zen dealer with the good reputation that is selling you the relabeled Soft-Lite Classic (Nirvana) is the clear winner. However, do make sure they are selling Soft-Lite, as opposed to Alside. The much better option and a fair price I think.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Windows Universe Reviews
Dave, after reading many of your unbiased quote reviews I feel the quote that I received from Windows Universe seems quite high. It does not take in to account our current window designs as we have two sets of corner windows and does not include two double sliders nor an end vent slider in the front of the house. I appreciate your time and review of the enclosed quote. Thank you.
20 Berkshire Elites from Windows Universe $16K
Jan - Homeowner - from 2021
[Site Editor Answers]
Jan, pre-Covid I was seeing Berkshire Elite windows for roughly $500 installed, so yes I would say the price is high -- however, the prices I am seeing lately have been more like what your cost bid is. I'm going to give you the same advice I have doling out lately -- the more bids you get, the better opportunity you have to find a fair market bid price.
[Windows List Redacted -- contact us (Dane or Tim) for our list.]
Dane - Site Editor - from 2021
Noise Reducing Windows
Working from home has revealed three neighbor dogs that are very good at barking all day. We built cheaply 29 years ago, and have thin, metal double-pane (some seals broken) double hung. Ten (10) windows and one small semi-circle in bathroom, fixed.
Can you recommend VERY GOOD double or triple pane, perhaps laminated windows for the best sound abatement?
James - Homeowner - from 2020
[Site Editor Answers]
James, soundproof windows can be tricky in that they can be very expensive. Milgard makes a good window line called the Quietline Series. Other options include the Amsco Serenity Series, and Harvey Acoustic Series.
An option you may want to consider includes using an insert like the Indow Acoustic Window. They are relatively cheap and provide excellent sound abatement, but they are tricky when you want to open windows. Call these guys up direct -- they are really good at answering and addressing consumer needs. Read all of our Indow Windows reviews here.
One other thing to be aware of, your walls might not provide as much sound abatement as they should. You can have a company come in and do an assessment and make recommendations. This might be where I'd start to get a better overall picture of how effective windows by themselves will be.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2020
[Jame's Reply]
Dane, thanks for your considerate time for a thoughtful response. If possible, I will see if I can order ONE insert and judge how well I like it.
My house, we built in 1992, has metal windows. They look fine. They are just thin, double pane and not up to snuff. But I like the durability of the metal frames. Compared to what I visually see in vinyl, the vinyl appear very thick and a bit unsightly.
Am I alone in this? Is there a good replacement metal frame?
By the way I filled out referral form. Window Nation was one I got call back from. Web reviews from various places they have some bad ones. Maybe just luck of draw from my google results. Just feedback on that for you. Indianapolis area zipcode by the way. I am still going through with a Saturday Noontime VIRTUAL meeting.
James - Homeowner - from 2020
[Site Editor Answers]
James, Window Nation sells some good vinyl windows, but they do tend to bid out their projects high in my estimation. I have seen some good options from them though in the Imperial LS. Always worth a quote just to see their pricing.
Vinyl is definitely thicker than aluminum. In Europe, it's double the thickness it is here. Not very nice looking, but VERY energy efficient. Always a trade off.
The Sunrise Restorations window offers a relatively slim frame and very good energy efficiency. It's one of the best vinyl/fiberglass windows on the market.
I agree that ordering one Indow insert and seeing if it works is a cheap and possibly good option.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2020
[Jame's Reply]
Dane, would you be able to offer me any advice based on the below summaries of my offers? I think I got three leads from your site's form submission. Due to scheduling, I had to cancel the Home Depot visit, but I wanted to get this email out today. I've spent hours with presentations and visits now, and I must say I am not "feeling it" with anyone. I have a lot of mixed emotions and nothing seems like a clear path forward.
In summary:
Windows Universe Express.
Berkshire Elite Double Hung, no grids, double pane argon. They were only ones that gave me an actual quote for the fixed window: $557. Other than that, they priced 10 plus the fixed for $5,696 white/white; $6,477 tan/tan w/Grids. Triple pane for $99 any window. Laminated pane $199.
Window Nation
Potomac, Double Hung, double pane, Argon, Full flex screen, beige/beige. $9,703; triple pane $10,942. We have flexibility on pricing
Apex Windows
Insignia, tan/tan; half-screen; no grid; triple pane argon; $8,961. Woodgrain interior $1,230 ; Krypton filled $692 (said it makes it R10???)
Anderson (not renewal)
I can't see where they ever got back with me.
Unique Home Solutions
Potomac, beige/beige, no grid, argon triple pane. $13,079; Kitchen can only be done in sliders they said.
Ground Floor
Stairs 23 7/16 x 47 1/4 [Tempered]
Living Room [2 windows side by side] 71 7/16 x 58 3/4
Kitchen [2 windows side by side] 63 3/8 x 57 3/4
Top Floor
South Bedroom 35 1/4 x 51
Northeast Bedroom 35 1/2 x 59 1/8
Middle Bedroom 35 1/4 x 59 1/8
Master Bedroom East/Right 35 3/8 x 59 1/8
Master Bedroom West/Left 35 1/2 x 59 1/8
Master Bath Fixed, half-circle 35 1/2 wide x 18 1/8 high/radius (half-circle window)
James - Homeowner - from 2020
[Site Editor Answers]
James, I see your dilemma here. The Berkshire Elite for $5,695 is the best value of the bunch. However, I don’t love this window. It’s decent, for sure, but the frame is a bit “flimsier” than I typically recommend for consumers looking to get really good, long lasting windows. I do think with professional installation, these windows will last 15 years (or much longer) and not give you too many issues.
The WN Potomac is the best window of the bunch (obviously go with the cheaper of the two Potomac quote since it’s the same window). Great window, but a steep price tag in my estimation.
I would say the Elite is worth $550 A window, but I’m not sure I would say the Potomac is worth $970 a window. If the Potomac was being quoted out at $750 a window, I would change my mind. Window Replacements Cost
If you are staying in this home 15 years or less, then I say you go with the Elite and call it a day. If this is your forever home, then you have a decision to make.
Isn’t there an Okna dealer in your area? The Okna 500 is a great window that often gets bid out at that $750 mark.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2020
Window Universe Reviews Ohio
Dane, what do you know about EZ Window Solutions and Window Universe Express?
I think EZ Windows are out of Ohio and Window Universe Express are out of Virginia.
EZ Window Solutions has the Interstate 6800 and Window Universe Express has the Berkshire Elite.
The reason I would like to know about them is that neither one comes to your home to show you a sample. They just want you to trust them and do the research on them. I understand that it's about saving cost and being able to sell windows cheaper I hope, but I have always been taught never buy anything until you see, touch, and smell it.
So any info on the 2 companies will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks again.
Greg - Homeowner - from 2020
[Site Editor Answers]
Greg, I'm thinking that both of these companies are run like franchises so you would need to google Window Universe Express reviews in Cleveland Ohio for instance to get an accurate understanding of their reputation. Off hand, I know very little about either one except to say that they strike me as very mid range operations that sell very mid range vinyl windows.
I would never spend a significant amount of money on an operation that is unwilling to come out and actually measure each opening.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2020
Windows Universe Berkshire Elite Bid
Looking for that cost sheet. Very close to doing a deal with Windows Universe, but it sounds like Berkshire Elite is not one of the favorites. Almost any other manufacturer is recommended - so I thought I should do some additional investigation.
Not to mention, many responses say Berkshire Elite is a good window at the right price point - but never say what that price point is!!
As far as checking other brands - I’m trying to get more quotes - but all of them want to come out and measure - so that’s going to take some time.
Perhaps the contractor leads form should be modified to remove HomeDepot and Sears then? At least for Austin location?
Regarding your comment on the Berkshire Elite = Alside Mezzo - I’ve read the same thing but the comments I read were from 5 years ago. Is the statement still true in 2020? Windows Universe is saying these windows are “the upgraded Revere Product Line” - any ideas on what that means?
They are basically quoting about $625/window includes Prairie Grids (50) and Energy Star Glass Package(50).
I’ll see if I can find some local reputable dealers around Austin that might have the windows on your recommended list.
G - Homeowner - from 2020
[Site Editor Answers]
Glenn, no idea wha Windows Universe is saying, but the Berkshire Elite is bascially the Alside Mezzo. Nothing has changed there.
$625 for that window is pricey. I wouldn't pay that.
If you are in Austin, I would get a bid from a Sunrise dealer, a Zen dealer, an Anlin dealer (if available), an NT Windows dealer, and a Don Young dealer.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2020
Windows Universe
Hi Dane. Thanks for the response. So I have received 5 quotes and it seems that all of them are above your replacementwindowsreviews pricing guidance. I have 17 windows with two 3 lite sliders, two 2 lite sliders, one picture window, and 12 double hungs. The 3 lite and 2 lite sliders used to be twin and triple double hungs but I was advised that the sliders would save on cost considerably and I don't necessarily care because they are in the back of the house. With all of that information, here are the quotes that I have:
· Apex ~$14K
· Universal Windows (Unishield Classic ~$14K, UniShield Plus ~$22K)
· Windows Universe (Revere Birkshire Elite) ~$13K
· American Windows (Grand Mesa) ~ $17K
· Soft-Lite Pro ~ $13K
Based on what I've read, the Soft-Lite pro is the best of all of these windows but the pricing bothers me – they all knew that they were competing with other companies. I would really love to get the Imperial LS for $11-12K but I don't understand why all of the quotes are so high to start with. My double hungs are around 32" x 67" so I'm wondering if they are larger than normal? My plan is to narrow this down to 2 and start talking them down but I don't know if my ideal is even achievable. I guess I was thinking I would be able to get a really good deal right now but these prices make me wonder if it is the opposite.
One other question – how important is the glass options on these (in terms of price)? Most are quoting the double pane LowE with Argon fill except for Apex which is triple pane with Argon fill. I think your website says price range of $550 - $850 per window for the high end – is that to accommodate for the glass options?
Also, I just got a quote for the Imperial LS for ~$15K (double pane lowE argon fill.)
Thanks.
David - Homeowner - from 2020
[Site Editor Answers]
Hey David, hope you are well. So because all those prices are relatively close to one another, these are very likely the fair market price for the windows. (Especially because they all knew they were competing for your business, which is a smart approach, and one I tend to forget to recommend -- but I should).
Three lite sliders can be pricey so that can certainly affect the per window price. I think it's more fair to say you are replacing 20 windows rather than 17. Size is a huge factor when it comes to home windows, but your sizes are relatively standard. But if 20 is the more fair number of what you are replacing, then $13K for the Soft-Lite Pro is a good price.
I agree with you that the Soft-Lite Pro is the best deal, until I saw your next email with the Imperial LS price. If this were my home, I would consider coughing up the extra $2K for the Imperial LS. I would base the decision on how long I planned to stay in the house with around 10 years as my over/under.
In terms of glass, a double pane, LowE with an argon fill is a pretty solid standard. Triple pane usually adds about $75 per window so that's one factor in that big range. Other factors include the low-e glass option, size of window, installation requirements, time of year, as well as other upgrades like sill reinforcements, spacers, SDL, etc.
I tend to think triple pane is overkill unless you are in a very cold climate. Indianapolis is sort of on the border -- with a good window like the Imperial LS, I don't think you have to go with the triple pane option.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2020
Window Universe Berkshire Elite Bid
Hey, we live out in Arizona and was worried that vinyl windows coudn't stand up to the extreme heat in the desert. We are in the process of replacing seven windows and a sliding door. We have two bids that I'd love to hear what you think.
Renewal By Andersen pricing (Local Dealer): $12,000
Revere Berkshire Elite (Window Universe): $6550
Matt - Homeowner - from 2018
[Site Editor Answers]
Matt, the Renewal window is good, but it's so expensive that it's tough for me to recommend them. The Revere window isn't a great product so I'm concerned how it would hold up in the extreme heat over the years. I think you need to keep looking -- get a bid for Anlin windows dealer, they make good vinyl series and the bid will probably be somewhere in between these two.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2018
Additional Resources: Window World Reviews