PlyGem Windows and other such questions

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Ply gem is ok but there are better options out there. If you can afford aluminum that is the way to go.

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Our budget is somewhere between Window World and Andersen 400. Any advice? So many options out there.

I have plyGem. We upgraded to vinyl. Last 3 utility bills less than $90. 2800sqft living area. Happy so far.

We have put in thousands of their aluminum Windows most 3-0x5-0 and 3-0x6-0 Low e etc. Very few issues, I can remember less than 10 we have had a problem with, I don't hear about everything, but I hear about most and don't think we have really had many more problems. Also used a fair amount of their vinyl, good windows as well. There are a number of other options out there that are an upgrade from plygem and won't break the bank. I would look into using SDL ( simulated divided light) Windows across the front and anywhere seen from the street and then use gbg (grill bt glass) everywhere else. That helps with cost and gives a nice look. Contact La Maison complete if in BR for some of their builder options. I think SDL will run approx $325 for a 3-0x6-0 SDL

plygem is cheap vynil, and they use a lot of plastic parts on their single hung Windows. As another poster posted, for the price of vynil, pella is probably the best bang for your buck.


The only problem with vynil is it cracks and yellows over time. Plus, it will expand and contract, eventually cracking and leaking. Make sure to check the manufacturer warranty and the installers warranty. Plus walk thru after the install and open and close each one and make sure your reveal is the same.

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Do all Aluminum windows sweat inside on cold days? Or is that just the cheap/old ones? 

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Good aluminum Windows with a thermal break should not condensate.

We use PlyGem as the base builder-grade vinyl windows on our houses. They're good quality windows but there are always better options. Without jumping too far up in price (Pella, Anderson...), you may want to try Showcase or Windsor. They have better style options and still hit a good price point.

Ultrex by Marvin

I remember seeing these and looking into them. Don't have any first hand experience, but from what I remember, the sales pitch was good and made some great points. Marvin is a great brand, so I'm sure they're quality, but also on the higher end.

High end, don't go aluminum clad Wood windows. They'll still rot. Those seams are shite.

Bt30s by precision millwork or the palmetto series by dealer's supply in South carolina.