Can someone explain this to a moron?

[pjs755]

Can someone explain this in a way that not only I will understand, but that I can then explain to the higher authority in my life? (IF you have to ask you're not married)

Exterior trim:
Full capping;$60@
Aluminum Stop trim with wood stops:$40@
Aluminum stop trim only:$20@

Paul

[HomeSealed]

The full capping covers the small stops and face trim ( most likely brick mold) all in one piece and gives the entire opening a nice, finished look. The other two options would just consist of an "L" shaped piece of metal right next to the window to cover the blind stop (or where it was cut off). The face trim is left untouched, whether it is currently capped or not. The difference between the last two options is that one gets new wood stops behind it ( preferred), while the cheapest option just floats the aluminum.... Does that explanation help?

[Windows on Washington]

Hilarious, but true...from one married man to another.

Each installer may have his own interpretations but here is how I read this:

Full capping: $60
- This option usually includes the full exterior cladding of all the window trim surrounding the new window (sill, jambs, brickmold, etc).

Aluminum Stop trim with wood stops: $40
- Sounds like they will just be pulling the stops here and installing new ones that will then be covered by coil stock.

Aluminum stop trim only: $20
- Sounds like they will just be making new stops out of coil here with no wood behind them.

For only $20 more, you are going to want the whole window capped. You won't have to paint it in the future and your windows and trim should be protected from the elements at this point.

[TheWindowNerd]

Additionally the whole exterior will look new and right with a full cap.

theWindowNerd.com

[HomeSealed]

...btw, I agree with both comments above, that the full trim is the way to go.

[pjs755]

Okay, full cap wins...

Now, where does the value lie?

Okna 400 DX is "x" dollars
Okna 500 DX is "x+37" per window
Okna 800 DX is "x+74" per window

Verde is "x+111" per window

The prices are so good compared to our first quotes last year for Alside or Simonton that I'm leaning to the 800. However I know the Boss will leaning to the 400 on price alone. Comments?

Paul

PS You guys have been and continue to be a huge help. Thanks.

[Windows on Washington]

That is very near cost on the price differential on those units based on what my numbers look like.

You are only going to buy windows once, I would get the 800s if it were my home.

[HomeSealed]

+1. For most conventional pricing structures the 500 series presents a great value, but if you can upgrade near cost, you can't beat that 800 price. I'd do the 800... The metal handles really set it apart, and the sash reinforcement and magnetic weatherstripping are nice features.
The Verde is a nice product, but certainly not worth any premium over those Okna choices. I'd say it would be most comparable to the 400... If those other products that you mentioned came in higher on previous quotes, you should count your blessings that you kept shopping!

[TheWindowNerd]

+2
I like the lower AI and look of the 800DX.
Also let me share my lead mechanics reaction, he is very unhappy anytime he has to install something other than the 800.