Need help deciding on replacement windows — Austin, TX — ProVia vs Window World vs RbA

[Strongbat]

I’m currently gathering quotes for the replacement of 7 windows in my home. After hours of research (if you can call scouring Reddit and this forum research) it’s beginning to seem like I have no good options. I’ve included the three quotes I have so far below:

1. Zen Windows — ProVia Endure — $8k
2. Window World — Alside (not sure what model…) — $6.9k
3. Renewal by Andersen — $28k

Right now I’m leaning towards the ProVia option but I’ve seen mixed reviews on both ProVia and Zen windows. My understanding is they are a premium Vinyl window. Is it fair to call them premium? RbA is out of my budget and Window World seems like they sell cheap junk.

Are the ProVia Endure windows good enough? This is a starter home that I plan to be out of in 5-8 years. I’ve seen Okna and Softlite recommended a lot but I’ve had trouble finding dealers in this area that carry these. If anyone has specific recommendations for the Austin area that carries better options than those above I’m all ears! Thanks for any tips/advice.

[Windows on Washington]

It might not be "all" bad to be honest. The RBA number certainly appears "high" in contrast to the others, but the others, for a myriad of reasons, aren't considered "premium" products. I'd have less of an issue with the RBA number if the window was actually that good. The issue is that it's not that great from a performance stand point.

Are there any Soft-Lite Elements windows in your market? Sunrise Restorations?

[TheWindowNerd]

Does Randy from Ultra Windows do anything in Austin?
If so he would be my choice.
Blessings,
wayne theWindowNerd

[Randy]

I haven’t done a job in Austin in over 5 years, however, I may consider expanding our reach to that area again.

To the OP, if you want to email me at: randy@ultrawindows.net, I would be happy to discuss the options with you.

[txremodel]

I ended up going with Maverick Windows who sell NT Windows for my replacements. After scouring these forums, NT seemed among the best we can get in ATX.

[DennisF]

Hi @Strongbat and @txremodel,

How did the replacement end for you guys?

Same story here, I'm in Austin and looking around at different options for window replacement options.

Want the outside not being vinyl or wood which reduces the choices considerably. Quotes so far are Sierra Pacific H3 & Pella Impervia just under double when compared to quotes from NT and RAM. Few more on the list to explore: Marvin and Milgard. Unfortunately Jeld-Wen Auraline stopped, that looked interesting.

NT looks good on paper but then you go through a video like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cqi-eQpMFo where you still have rough cuts of alu left and right, screws sticking out and very different visuals for single hung and picture I really start wondering if that's for me.

Would be nice to have something in the middle between NT and the higher end.

[TheWindowNerd]

Can you start by making a priorty list of goals.
Things like:
colors
function
frame thickness
draftiness
mfg and contractor trust level
budget
If Randy at Ultra Windows would do your project that would be a grand slam.
Blessings,
theWindowNerds.com

[DennisF]

After seeing your glowing recommendation we're chatting with Randy. Once he's back let's see if he can expand his empire north-west wards

[nickg]

Marvin Replacement is a good option for fiberglass windows.

[TheWindowNerd]

Marvin offers some pretty windows and some strong windows. If you are dooing black that might be a factor.
But there windows are drafty compared to many air tight units.