Soft-Lite appear to be a very good quality product but can't find much info on them and barely anything about Paradise Exteriors, but don't want to miss out on potentially great windows for an awesome price! Tim - Site Editor - from 2018, -- Estimated CWS StormStrong Costs: $9,00 to $1,200 installed -- I'm very bummed that we can no longer get Gorell (out of business), the 5400 that they sold was a very hefty window and very well made. I will ask around if I can find someone. Laurie - Homeowner - from 2018, Laurie, Both CWS and Simonton have relatively strong reputations in the industry. Got a bid from CWS for $22,640, although after some fancy number crunching it went down to $19,936. From what I have heard and been told they are the two major players in the impact rated residential window market in Florida. 3 size H62 x W 52 Do this for each brand you are interested in searching. CWS Windows Prices Hi - Looking to build a new home down in Florida on the waterfront. Generally though, you can expect to pay between $375 and $770 on average for most PGT Series of Windows. The rest of the windows were replaced when I bought the home in 2014 by the GC who did my remodel, as they were leaking and it could not wait. I received a quote for impact resistant windows from a company in southwest florida that installs both Custom Window Systems Wind-Pact Plus (CWS) as well as PGT windows. I asked about aluminum frames and was told you could only do aluminum in new construction.". This also gives you a great way to work the prices on both down by playing them off against one another. I'm also wondering what other companies I should look at in Florida? Dane - Site Editor - from 2021, Hi, We are looking to replace large sliers (8 and 9) and windows in our beach front condo in St Augustine FL. $125 more per window for the SLthat's a tough question, I think it's right there on the borderline whether that's worth it or not. Collect your bids and then see if you can negotiate down the price. Is this true? Cabana Door is oversized on length but narrower than standard widths. Renton - Homeowner - from 2012, CWS does make good hurricane windows and they are not too crazy in terms of cost (or they shouldn't be). I am looking at quotes for PGT and CWS. PGT 5500 series white vinyl insulated impact Windows , clear Low-exl 70 insulated impact glass w/ colonial grids. PGT WinGuard Vinyl windows and doors are designed to meet or exceed the International Building Code for: Air infiltration Water resistance Deglazing Forced-entry resistance Structural integrity Small and large missile impact protection Residential intruder protection WinGuard Vinyl 5500 Series Architectural AR5520 Is it possible that a slider should be so difficult to open just due to its weight? Jo - Homeowner - from 2018, Jo, the CWS Aria window is an okay vinyl window. Amy - Homeowner - from 2022, Amy, I would say this is a coin flip for me, with a subtle push for the CWS Windpact option. Does anyone have any advice regarding the operability/ease of use of the casements versus single hung windows? Ian - Contractor in Florida - from 2012, We're looking at Custom Window Systems for our hurricane windows, but there isn't much out there on the company. There is less than $2000 difference in total cost from two contractors, one using CWS and one using Simonton. CWS quote: $9400 Over 30 windows and they did it in about 5 days. 2 size H37.5 x 51.5 LoE 452, LoE 340, LoE 366 when you have a view, Back of Home Remodel: Patio and Window Design. ES Windows They seem to love their collections. Originally the builder told us we had to use Custom Window Systems but now we have a choice of either CWS or PGT. Quote was for $14000 and this was for full installation of windows and any additional material needed to complete the job. by FLhomeowner Mon Feb 23, 2009 9:19 pm. They tend to be either laminated or painted, and both have some drawbacks. He and I go back nearly 50 years. I have been following your website for sometime and have read over your reviews of various companies. Assuming the company doing the install is professional and offers quality services, you should be well served with either one of these products. One of them evidently has the seal broken. Custom Window Systems offers quite a few impact vinyl models and series, all of which are listed below. (I am only looking at non-impact). Aria Series | 600 Series Yes, they have a lifetime warranty but we have to pay labor every time one is replaced. I have used both windows in multiple homes I have built in South Florida. WINGUARD ENERGYVUE Do you have a suggestion where I could get one? Then I think you go with CWS, otherwise the VantagePointe is probably the better value. Jeld Wen makes good doors and a decent wood clad window, but I'm not a big fan of their vinyl windows. Custom Window Systems (CWS) is an established hurricane impact window and door company located in Ocala, Florida. It will cost me approx $800 more to go with the PGT windows. Neil - Homeowner - from 2021, -- Estimated CWS Aria Price: $550 to $700 installed -- House type and interior window treatments also play a part in this decision. I read on the website that Jeld Wen windows are not the best vinyl windows. MI on the other hand has a reputation as a low quality manufacturer and not a brand I would put in my own home. I am snowblind reading reviews on line. They feel really cheap. Dane - Site Editor - from 2018, -- Estimated CWS Patio Door Costs: $1,600 to $2,750 installed -- We carry a full line of impact windows and all types of hurricane glass from custom doors and sliding glass doors as well as custom windows, picture and architectural. What style shutter with my Tudor Revival? Quote was for 15 slider windows with prairie grid. It sounds like they are responding so that's good, but yes you have to pay for the labor and that seems unfair given the timeline of the install. We had a great experience. CWS Windows Reviews So what series would you recommend from CWS and PGT that I look into? I'd probably give the nod to CWS in terms of their impact windows, but I'd give the nod to Simonton in terms of overall reputation and strength as a company. I like CWS and think it's the better window, but I'm not sure it's worth 30% more. We offer French doors, sliding-glass doors, and cabana doors throughout our collections with impact resistant, energy-efficient, non-impact, and other performance options to meet the needs of your home and family. "Need personal recommendations for a business that sells & installs PGT hurricane impact home windows.". Depending on the "defects", I think you will, contractually, need to give them the opportunity to remake the product and deliver it in specification. Across street from ocean. (impact exterior). Send our site editor Dane your questions, and get personalized answers that can save you thousands of dollars on your project! I know that supply chain issues have screwed up all sorts of industry's quality, but that doesn't explain or help your situation. Any advantages/disadvantages between the two? Sandy - Homeowner - from 2021, I did sign a contract with Window World for the wincore 8000 series impact-resistant double hung windows. PGT Innovations ranks 2nd in Overall Culture Score on Comparably vs its competitors. I feel like that would be worth the price difference. Even with the addition of these inhibitors, the southern sun restricts the lifespan of these windows. All four of the companies I mentioned make a good premium vinyl window. Use a private browsing window to sign in. I feel like they were trying to rip me off. I am concerned about the adhesion and life of the paint on the vinyl. We do not need to get impact windows. PGT: WinGuard Hurricane Windows & Doors. Have looked at PGT and CWS but don't seem to come across much info on Pella or Viwinco? I was told that PGT did not have the lifetime warranties that CWS was offering is this true? Btw, I had a quote from Gorell 5400 hurricane windows that was more than double this! Also Marvin does not make an aluminum framed window. Dane - Site Editor - from 2017, Hi Tim. PGT Innovations competitors include Ply Gem, Andersen Windows Corporation, Pella Corporation, JELD WEN and Custom Window Systems. Of those of you who have installed PGT Aluminum Winguard windows, what color did you choose and are you happy with them. I don't think I mentioned, they are the 8000 series storm-force Impact windows. I really would love to know the difference between the two if there are any differences. I have gotten two quotes. I'll let you all know how it goes! " I really wish your website could provide some insight into who and which companies we should talk to. Tim - Site Editor, Hi Dane, this company offer lifetime guarantee however it is a way of making money. Are there any window fabricators that make in bulk colored vinyl product? The bid total comes out to $104/sq ft. and includes any remediation that might be required if we have to fix/replace damaged or rotten wood. Tim - Site Editor - from 2019, The CWS 8100 is a single hung vinyl impact window, which seems to offer good quality and value. I would much prefer you spend the extra $1400 and go with the PGT bid. CWS, as they are often referred to, is regarded as a solid manufacturer of impact windows (and non impact windows) that is roughly on par with PGT. 8100 Series | 8200 Series Thank you. I would also monitor the work and be hands on, as much as possible the crews work better when they know. I believe that Ive negotiated the best possible price and wanted your opinion. This company also claims PGT windows have various issues. 1 - 25 x 62 I would see which of their windows you like the look of and then I would use the lower bids to see how low you can get the CWS or PGT dealer to go. That is the story we are being give. Hello Dane, thanks for the response. Thank you!! Does Low E windows make a room too dark? If you wanted a third option, I'd look for a local rep from them. Do you know of vinyl material that is a bronze or even tan color in bulk. You guys are making me nervous! If you want any further information we did boatloads of research on all the impact Windows. If it were me, I'd get a few more bids to see what else is out there. Please let me know your thoughts. I am planning on going with non-impact windows, and after getting 11 quotes (don't believe anybody who tells you to get only 2 or 3: this does NOT apply to Florida. I originally thought the contractors workers damaged these windows on install because I couldn't believe that many windows would fail (my mom has these same windows and hasn't had one failure) but now that the replacements that were installed by the window dealer are failing I'm starting to think these windows are junk. Any advice on using CWS/MI vs. PGT products would be greatly appreciated. Their modern manufacturing facility ensures safety and security. The doors are of a very sturdy, nice-looking quality. The estimate I received was $19,500. How does the CWS compare, and is the softlite worth the extra 20% all other things being equal? WindPact Series | General Reviews, Custom Window Systems is a vinyl and aluminum window and door manufacturer that specializes in both impact and non impact products. If it were me, I would search for local companies that carry PGT windows, Custom Window Systems (CWS), and perhaps someone who carries the Simonton StormBreaker Plus or the Simonton Impressions 9800 (you will need to get a couple upgrades to get the 9800 hurricane rated). This is one of our selections for the best hurricane windows on the market. Joe - Homeowner - from 2016, Joe, the PGT Winguard vinyl window is quite a good window, however its tough to say whether the quote is fair or not. I took a look at the PGT website and found that they offer the PGT single hung 5400 series and the double hung 5460 in a bronze finish. I rest at ease knowing that I will be safe., My home is almost completely silent after installing the impact windows and doors., "My sliding glass door is like the door to a bank vault. The $11,597 for 11 windows is what I would expect for the CWS 8100 series, but it sounds like they really raked you over the coals to even get to that price. Would you give me your opinion on them ? Dane - Site Editor - from 2020, I have CWS windows. That doesn't mean that you can't try and shave off some of the cost of the PGT bid though. Once you've reached this, you'll know it because they won't move any lower, then you sign on the dotted line. Thanks for your time and efforts. If it were me, I would turn to the quality of the installers as the deciding factor. Yes, I saw the complaints on BBB, but BBB does not publish positive reviews, only the complaints. (assumes medium sized window and normal installation) *, I live in the Orlando area I have narrowed my search to the final three. The purchase price of $108 million is comprised of $100 million cash and $8 million of PGT Innovations common stock for a 75% ownership stake in Eco. Guessing you meant CWS in this case? You may also want to get one more bid to see where it falls in that price spectrum (and you could use it as additional leverage with the CWS company.) Also find a Simonton dealer and get a bid on their Stormbreaker Plus. Im looking at Home Depot who quotes PGT made exclusively for them and 8 week delivery and install. PGT is the nation's leading manufacturer and supplier of residential impact-resistant windows and doors. All windows will be single hung. The Lani windows are made by Custom Window Systems. You enjoy uncompromised quality from the newest advances in technology and engineering. See All Windows Doors Hurricane windows and doors protect against flying debris. PGT doors add convenience and style to any room. I trust the contractor doing the installation. If they refuse, I think you still have a fair price. Architectural windows are the ultimate expression of creativity and individuality and create a truly one-of-a-kind look. The first three make both impact and non impact windows that should serve your purposes. Hopefully the experts here can correct me if that's wrong. Tracy - Homeowner - from 2016, Tracy, PGT and CWS are mainly available on the coast, particularly in Florida. Each company makes a number of windows. Thanks very much. Let me know your thoughts. $10,175.00 PGT 5400 EnergyVue Okna, Sunrise, Soft-Lite and Wallside. PGT Industries 8. Jessica - Homeowner - from 2017, Jessica, I like the second bid a lot more -- PGT makes a good window and sliding door, as does CWS I might add. The estimate from Zager (CWS bid) is approx. The price difference is approximately $593. We had another local company gives us a price for CW windows equal to PGT and quote came in about the same price as the 14K. The cost of a Double Hung Vinyl Andersen 400 Series window would be around $280 per window, which averages around $350 total to install. their work is being monitored ,and the owner really cares. Other storm windows and doors include the Sunrise Coastal series, Soft-Lite Barcelona Impact Series, Soft-Lite Armor Impact Series, and the Stanek UltraExtreme series. Does anyone have an idea about the price difference between PGT Winguard Aluminum windows and Marvin or Anderson impact windows? I've had very few issues with them and when they did the company worked with me to make sure that everything was worked out to the customers satisfaction. In terms of quality windows on a budget, I think you are on the right track! It's the company's entry level vinyl window and not the model I would go with from CWS. Thank you MWM. Dane - Site Editor - from 2018, Hi Dane, I live in Clearwater Florida and would appreciate your advice on my 2 final choices/quotes. We've narrowed it down to PGT and CWS. Impact will cost considerably more, but obviously they are much more durable. I would get a couple more bids from local companies to see how they compare with your current bid. I knew my family and all my belongings would be safe during the hurricane.". 3 - 36 x 60 Picture Meredith - Homeowner - from 2018, -- Estimated CWS 8000 Costs: $600 to $750 installed -- Stephanie - Homeowner - from 2022, Stephanie, that is disturbing. I appreciate the posters who shared their experience. Our PGT Custom Windows + Doors manufacturing, glass plant, and delivery facilities are located in North Venice, FL and Ft. Myers, FL. (assumes medium sized window and normal installation), I just got a bid on the CWS 8100 single hung window. Take a look at our recommended brands and do a simple google search to see what is available in your area. )3) 23 x 70 casement type I don't like this feature, but CWS does tend to make a quality window, despite the design flaw. I would absoutely get a bid from PGT on their WinGuard window. Thanks again for all the help, I would try to get a bid from as many of these companies as possible to maximize your chances of a high quality window at a reasonable price. I would put them both in the quite good category and I think they both offer a nice long term value for your money. CWS Windows prices are in the mid range of other vinyl and aluminum windows. I got a final bid from AmCraft and that came in at $16,490. Once you have the bids collected, send them over and I'll throw in my two cents. Custom Windows Systems has manufactured windows and doors since 1986. Tim - Site Editor - from 2020, Hello Dane/Tim, I have a 2800 sq ft under a/c home. Air infiltration rate, U-value, design pressure would be the three data points I would look at I noticed that many people had asked about those windows in 2016 and was wondering if you have any better feel for the product? Installer is the same person. My top picks for storm windows and doors (which go from best to good) include the Soft-Lite Barcelona Impact Series, Soft-Lite Armor Impact Series, Sunrise Coastal Series, PGT WinGuard Series, Stanek UltraExtreme Series, CWS Windpact Series, Wincore 8000 series, the Simonton Stormbreaker Series, and the Viwinco OceanView Series. Custom Window Systems is a Florida based vinyl and aluminum window manufacturer that specializes in both impact and non-impact windows. The other company you should look at is PGT, which is my go to window. I don't think Soft-Lite is more of a cold climate window, I just think the factory is located in a cold climate. I get that the 5500 series is a coastal impact window. Both PGT windows from PGT Industries and EAS from Eastern architectural Systems build windows that meet the toughest Florida Building Code (FBC) Large Missile Impact testing. Marge - Homeowner - from 2020, Marge, I think you're on the right track. I'd see how these compare and then go from there Along with quality installation, you will be well served. You have selected two great companies, just goes to prove what hard work and research get you. AmCraft isn't what I would consider a very good brand and I would be wary about going with them. Wiltrack Construction And Development Group LLC. I signed late yesterday evening. Weather Shield: Premium Coastal Windows & Doors. Never heard of the others and nothing about them looks impressive from their website and PGT has a pretty good history for products and customer service. CWS Aria 650 Series Windows and PGT 5470 Series Doors: $29k Custom Windows Window Treatment Services Window Repair Fireplace Contractors Painters Paint & Wall Covering Dealers Door Contractors Glass & Shower Door Contractors Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers Landscape Contractors Landscape Construction Land Clearing Garden & Landscape Supplies Deck & Patio Builders Deck Repair Patio Design I don't actually have much in terms of performance data -- U-value, air infiltration, SHGC, VT, or CR. That's right. The CWS window costs, which were for single hungs, were $7,500 total, the PGT windows price was $800 more. Custom Window Systems vs PGT 5500 Hi Dane,I'm new to the Venice, FL area after moving from NJ. I agree that you should continue to work with CWS to find a solution that works. Concern is that youngsters and people older than ourselves would have tremendous difficulty using these doors. They pass the same standardized testing chambers under the exact same conditions and carry thee exact same approvals. I would say the two windows you have bids for are very close in quality. I hadn't heard that MWM. PGT has resources and ideas to get you started. Can you advise if pricing is reasonable. Can you give me some basic insight into these two window manufacturers? Dane - Site Editor - from 2019, Hi Tim! Comparable to other quality impact windows out there such as the PGT WinGuard, Soft-Lite Armor Impact series, and the Simonton StormBreaker Plus. The price quote from Home Depot seems high, $1175 per window, I think you can do better than that, although I don't have any project specifics to back that up. Single hung windows used to be the red headed stepchild of windowshowever that has changed. Typically, HD has great prices, but I would go somewhere else for the installation, the big box stores don't have a very good reputation for the subcontractors they use (not always the case, but I wouldn't take the chance with my home.) If there is a significant difference in the reputation and track record of the company doing the work then this would add a wrinkle to the equation. PGT has no regard for small customers. Dane or Tim I had definitely heard good things about PGT, but I've never heard of CWS and was curious what their deal is and whether the prices seem in line. I know you had mentioned avoiding the entry-level lines of companies, so I just want to be sure. These windows should never have been delivered to our home for installation. Tim - Site Editor - from 2020, I live in the Tampa Bay area and I'm having my vinyl windows replaced. CWS is a MUCH smaller operation -- Simonton is the largest manufacturer in the business. Jerry - Homeowner - from 2022, Jerry, the CWS Storm Strong 6100 is a good window, but the price seems high to me. I would say the PGT is the winner for me given the product and the price. They work with these series every day and they will have the exact specs and number variations for each of their two products. (assumes medium sized window and normal installation), I live in Orlando, Florida and have negotiated what seems like the best possible price. Renewal by Andersen: $58k I think the Simonton VantagePointe window is pretty good, but I would see how much you can get the CWS dealer to come down on his price and see if you can't get it to closer to 10K. 33301 Contact Number 954-256-1055 We're in Sarasota and narrowed it down to PGT and NewSouth. MI Windows and Doors: StormArmor Impact-Resistant Package. The house windows are PGT 5500 Series. Are my windows too large fir casement gear mechanisms etc? 8100 Series | Lani Series The small business I like very much has a 4 month delay on PGT so quoted me on Cws. Patio Door Reviews | StormStrong Series CGI Impact-Resistant Windows & Doors: Sentinel by CGI. Any other better options out there using the Ygreene program? We live in South Florida so both hurricane protection and energy efficiency are important to us. (1) 52 x 38 single hung They have a very cool latch and auto lock feature that is quite nice. The CWS Windpact Plus is a strong impact window and one that I would thoroughly consider for my own home (if I needed an impact window and door). Recently, the brown vinyl stripper started to warp. I'd start with a local home improvement store, call them up and ask if they make custom sized screens. Which one were you thinking of?? Jo - Homeowner - from 2018, Jo, I would look at CWS's Windpact Plus series and the PGT EnergyVue series. Advise: Be the squaky wheelbut a nice squeaky wheel. Your prompt response will be helpful because I only have 3 days to break the contract. Any advice would be highly appreciated! The same bid from PGT was $21,345. "How about ECO window systems in Florida; how do they compare with PGT". Don't forget to check the performance specs of the windows! Eastern Architectural 400 Series: $21.5k Patio Door Reviews | Storm Strong Series Looks like NewSouth is good enough for PGT - PGT acquires NewSouth in $92M cash deal. The 8100, 8200 and 8400 (available series or model numbers) can be ordered in a standard white, adobe or boronze, as well as an upgraded veneer color options that include natural cherry, anodized, golden oak, bronze, black cherry and medium maple. PGT and Custom Window Systems are the big players in Florida and you can't go wrong with either of them. I like that the window comes in a number of interior colors that you can choose from and the performance data on the window is quite solid. Dane - Site Editor - from 2022, I just got done with a 5-hour spiel from a sales rep for FHIA (Florida Home Improvement Associates, Inc.) who made a big to-do about their being the home improvement contractor of choice for Sam's Club and BJ's. I actually like these single hung windows and think they offer some decent performance for the price. The majority of the windows are 32 by 70. I did not have the same experience as Noel C as far as the initial sales visit, and when I told them my husband works long hours and it would be almost impossible to meet with us both - they still scheduled the appointment with me. PGT Estimate: $63K (using PGT patio sliders) One company claims that the CWS Aria series windows are not good and don't compare to Soft-Lite Durashield. If you are doing full framed replacement windows you certainly can use an aluminum framed window same as vinyl or wood. We need 15 windows in all -- a combination of picture, casement and double hung windows. We used Karoly Windows and Doors to replace our windows with hurricane rated ones. Have a question on window quotes, prices, or reviews? Ive put in some good sized wi, French door vs sliding? The test that I was thinking of is ASTM E331. Both are quality products from what I know of the two. Brands that were previously the "standard" are just like everyone else (used to be) and turning out stuff with QA/QC issues. Some SHs are now really well made and can achieve performance data that far exceeds double hungs (because you have less moving parts and less places for air to enter etc.)