On Wed, 9 May 2012 07:43:22 -0700, "Bob F"
wrote:

John Albert wrote:
Hello all...

I've got an old house, built in 1911. It still has the
original windows.

I'm having the roof replaced, and the guy who's going to do
it does windows/siding as well.

Like everyone else I've talked to, he offered vinyl
replacement windows.

My question is:
Why always vinyl for windows?

I've looked around at them, and have never been impressed by
their construction or quality. They just look "cheap" to me.

What makes them better?
Or -- is it just about "cheaper"?

If I was going to have the windows done, I'd probably want
something like Pella "450" series -- that is, basic wooden
windows with aluminum cladding on the outer surfaces.

The wooden windows in this house are old, and yes, in need
of replacement. But somehow they lasted 100 years. Will
vinyl replacements have similar longevity?

Modern wood windows might not be as good as the old growth wood windows you
might have had origionally. Just something to include in your thoughts.

Might?? Make that "definitely won't". Even if they are pressure
treated wood. I've seen a lot of Pellas that were JUNK in 15 years.
Andersens too.