Folks,

1. Do you have a certified licensed engineer to write the specifications?
2. What is the rating of the window in terms of wind speed penetration and PSI force?
3. I am not promoting Traco, but this URL provides an ample number of “definitions”.
4. Do search some more definitions via the Internet.
5. And, do note that all windows are not created equal.



1. In our 500 unit NJ co-op, we picked windows with a reasonably “high” resistance to wind penetration.
2. We replace only 15% of the windows each year so that we can be absolutely satisfied with the installer and the windows. If you replace all the windows, you may face issues that are insurmountable. Neighboring buildings have encountered just such a problem.
3. Scheduling is easier with smaller batches.
4. If there is a product defect as occurred with us a year ago, we needed to delay the window program. With a smaller batch it was far easier than rescheduling the entire building.
5. And with smaller batches we need not row” and thus use our capital reserve fund and our yearly assessments.
6. We do not have a punch list as our “outside engineer” certifies each installation before the workers depart the apartment.

Newbie - I don't know the name Gamco. We have double-hung tilt-out white windows - the standard type many bldgs have. If this is the style you're considering, $3-4K per unit is way too high. $898 per unit is about right. For 2 windows per unit, that's $1500 v. $450 per window.

Our owners use various vendors and typically pay $400-450 per window. A few who hired high-priced architects to do renovations paid much more. Their windows may be a little better quality but look the same as the others in the bldg. Those owners paid for "name" more than anything else.

Two vendors our owners use are very reliable, do good work, etc. If you want, I'll give you their names/numbers. They naturally can provide many other window styles as well as the standard tilt-out type.

Thanks, BP. I would appreciate the names of the window replacement vendors you mentioned. By the way, the Gamco window estimate was $898 for the total of two window per unit. The windows are about 52 wide and 35 high. Actually, Pella came in at $4400 -- had them give an estimate to see what the high end would be like, then, two other vendors came in 3-4K for Crystal windows.
Thanks again,
BN

Newbie - Your windows aren't the standard size ours are so I don't know what the price might be, but the two vendors some of our owners used are both reliable and do good work. One is Shapiro & James Mirror and Glass (ask for Terry, I think he's still there) at 718-292-3000. Their prices are higher but our owners had only good things to say about them. The other is FSFL Enterprises (ask for Virginia) at 718-461-1291. This is a smaller company but I was told they are very pleasant to work with and have good prices.

Good luck --

I have replaced many windows, in many buildings... Crystal windows, who you mention should run you about 4-500 per window, Unless you are putting in tilt/turn picture windows, this is the right price, your other quote is way too high.
I use Larsen Windows - 718-492-4998 - Glenn Larsen, they can provide many samples and different windows in that range.
All windows are not equal, but they all do have special ratings and certifications, this is what you compare... forget whart the salesman says.
Good luck
AR

As AR says, not all windows are created equal by way of ratings. Depending on the height of the building, and location re wind, etc. you may use HC-40 as a minimum. If you are a garden apartment complex you may use vinyl windows. If windows are too wide ( > 42 inches) and you are going for double hung windows, you should equip the lower sash with ultralift balances, which may add to the cost of the window $55+. The window size may be more appropriate for a slider. Is this what you have now?

AdC

Yes, ADC, we have sliders now, which were installed when building was rehabbed and converted in 1986. In several units there is a heat deficiency which could be linked to the degradation of the windows and gas over time. Or we may need to add more baseboard heating to the existing units. Our thinking is that we should try to retain the heat by replacing worst-case windows and see if there is an increase in temperatures in cold units. We should probably hire an engineer to consult with us on solving the problem but some Board members don't want to pay the cost for an engineer. Any thoughts on this? Thanks, BN