Q & A with a General Contractor

Are you building a new house? Bring your questions and we will answer them.

Need help with the process of being an owner builder?

[chadd]

I looked at the Anderson windows you mentioned in this video but after exploring their site and perusing their inclusion page, I just shook my head and closed out the window. Same with Alpen. Pella it is.

[IPVDC]

The conversation on windows is helpful. But it’d be good to note that aluminum window prices were compared to Vinyl. This is an apples and oranges comparison. It’d be interesting to know what the price was for Alpen’s uPVC (or maybe its fiberglass) option. Hopefully more European tilt turn options can make it into the supply houses as well as more local manufacturing. I have lived in Europe and USA… the tilt turns are dramatically better than typical USA windows.

[Quiksilver_]

Got a quote for Pella Impervia (Fiberglass) from Lowe’s for just over 26k without installation, I’m planning to have my framer install. My Amsco studio vinyl bid was right around 22k installed. We’re going with lowe’s but not sure what jamb depth to use for 2x6 exterior walls. Any suggestions? We’re black exterior/interior. Options are like 3 1/2, 4 1/2 and 6 7/8 (number may be a little off but close).

[earthventuring]

Keith, just an FYI on the Alpen windows, they now are moving towards a solid pane for the center glass at the same cost as the film. If you go with them, you can specify full 3 pane glass for the same price. We met with the rep a few months ago. I think they had issues with the film in terms of longevity.

[shannabolser]

Look up inline fiberglass windows. They are from Canada.

[BoxleyAcres]

Have you looked at Enerlux windows? Probably 50% more than Amsco, but very high quality fiberglass frame with crazy high DP.

[pushinlove]

Logic tilt & Turn windows that are US based are not an option for discussion? That’s a bummer because their factory is in Pennsylvania and the warranty/replacement process is fast and smooth.

I’d recommend giving them a chance if you haven’t yet, and if you have already but found reasons you don’t recommend them please let us know! Your expert opinion in your craft is very important to us viewers.

[hellonoko]

Uglys Electrical Reference? Also its possible to run Rockwool through the blow in machine and get blown in Rockwool.

[luciarael]

Net zero standards call for 7-11% of square footage.

[robert]

I’m having a problem sourcing Rockwool 2 inch comfort board exterior insulation. There is a product called powerwool. Any suggestions or sources for any of this. Where are you getting Rockwoll insulation?

[luciarael]

You can also install quality insulating curtains for a fraction of the cost of expensive windows.