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KM1
(FL)

Posts:62

07/18/2010 11:14 AM
Hi all! I've read a few posts on the white/light vinyl window dilemma, and challenges with meeting existing ACC standards. Our neighborhood has the same issue in that the trim and previous windows of days yore are dark brown/bronze aluminum. Very few here have been changed out, and no action has been taken in the past few years for white/tan colored vinyl windows. They look terrible, and while I understand the efficiency and value of the windows, they tend to cheapen the aesthetic qualities of the homes. I've researched enough to see that existing vinyl paints are not recommended to be used (per brand websites themselves) in dark colors, as they will absorb heat and potentially warp the vinyl. Understandable, especially in Florida! There are quality windows from brand name companies, but the cost seems more high-end rather than "standard." My interpretation of creating a standard, is that it should be of average cost. When researching the various shapes of windows, colors, buying sources, etc. it's been taxing and I can understand how the previous boards did not take action. Can someone share specifically what their solution has been or what has worked? Someone here in the neighborhood created a new dark brown frame with strips of wood to camoflauge the white vinyl. It's definitely less offensive than the white, and doesn't require one to buy expensive windows. Doesn't work for those with unique arches, but may work for traditional four-sideds. Does this sound like a reasonable compromise? I'm at my wits end thinking outside of the box and researching this issue. Thank you!

JohnB26
(South Carolina)

Posts:487

07/18/2010 11:53 AM
purchase windows with exterior color which meets your requirements ... maybe more money per window ($30) but definately doable ... however, they would need to be ordered .. as per: http://www.askthebuilder.com/196_Colorful_Replacement_Windows_-_Vinyl_Aluminum.shtml "Certain vinyl window companies decided to blend two maintenance free materials together. You can purchase a vinyl window that has an aluminum exterior and a vinyl interior. The aluminum exterior is available in a variety of light and dark colors. Custom colors are also available. Painted aluminum finishes can last 15 years or more with minimal color fade. The aluminum frames are an excellent choice if you live in a high wind area or desire a window that resists forced entry."

KM1
(FL)

Posts:62

07/18/2010 12:36 PM
Sounds good, but I can't find a source online! (Someone responded in 2008 to the site sent asking for a source due to difficulty finding one.) I've spoken at length to local building suppliers and the big-name hardware stores and have not been advised of these types of windows. Do you have personal experience in buying this type or know of a specific name? Thanks

JohnB26
(South Carolina)

Posts:487

07/18/2010 1:19 PM
try: Window World for the least expensive type. ps. the 'big box' stores only sell second rate junk WINDOWS ARE EXPENSIVE ... if you and I find inexpensive ones, they are second rate http://www.windowworld.com/products/replacementwindows/ http://www.buzzle.com/articles/color-replacement-windows.html http://www.regencywindow.com/windowscolors.asp http://customordervinylwindows.com/listproducts/61/Simonton_Reflections_5300_Series_Replacement_Double_Hung_Vinyl_Windows.html http://www.findreplacementwindows.com/specialty/Specialty-Colors-VA.html >>> http://www.weatherkingdoors.com/vinyl-color.html <<< etc, etc, etc

KM1
(FL)

Posts:62

07/18/2010 11:30 PM
I appreciate the research, but: Regency - serves vinyl in Ohio only Simonton - White and Tan vinyl options only for Florida Weather King - vinyl to Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Chicago, Kentucky only Andersen - no dark brown available in standard windows http://www.andersenwindows.com/servlet/Satellite/double-hung-windows-for-your-home.htm Window World - I can check this out, but have heard they don't have a good reputation in this area. I guess no great solutions have been found for Florida HOAs. Not sure if we are any more unique in region due to building code standards for 140 mph winds, heat, humidity, etc.

JohnB26
(South Carolina)

Posts:487

07/19/2010 4:40 AM
last solution: aluminum frames painted to desired color

EllieD
(Vermont)

Posts:133

07/19/2010 6:26 AM
Do you have to use vinyl? Have you considered an all fiberglass window – costs a bit more but may be what you are looking for. This one is made by MARVIN Windows and Doors, but there may be others. http://www.integritywindows.com/?page=All_Ultrex

KM1
(FL)

Posts:62

07/19/2010 8:47 AM
Thanks - looks like I will continue to pull my hair out on this one. We're trying to set a new window standard for 80+ townhomes, as after 30 years people are slowly changing out windows and claim the white vinyl is most readily available, rated most energy efficient (to aluminum, which doesn't qualify for energy tax credit here), and is of standard cost. I've called around and researched online, and their claims appear to be accurate. If aluminum doesn't qualify for tax credit in energy efficiency, I don't feel good about telling a homeowner to buy that kind of window in Florida heat just to meet color standards. Am I thinking incorrectly here? Personally, i'd rather look at the pricier options, BUT I thought with architectural standards we should have windows that are of "standard" price. I don't know how that would be defined. Thought about changing the trim colors, but it's too hard with townhomes. This is why I was wondering what other neighborhoods may have done - especially FL - because i'm starting to feel like we're the only area with this problem! :-)

GlenL
(Ohio)

Posts:3526

07/19/2010 12:55 PM
KM, I would start by visiting window dealers in your area, not the big box stores and explain your problem and let them find the solution. Here is a link for a window outfit out of Indiana but they have hurricane products: http://www.gorell.com/pages/frame_finish_colors.htm

Too bad the only people who know how to run the country are busy driving cabs and cutting hair. - George Burns

KM1
(FL)

Posts:62

07/19/2010 9:27 PM
Thank you to all for suggestions and sources. After my post, someone advised me that if we were to change a standard, it would have to be voted on by the members. I have not located any official documents that state what the standards are in the office -- the member stated that it's obvious what the colors are so there is no need for this. The governing documents do not state anything about voting on standards, but I do agree this is a business and homeowners are a stakeholder and the BOD should make decisions in the interest of the homeowners. Is a special meeting how it's normally done? Recently at a BOD meeting we "set" a standard for light fixtures. Was difficult because this was not done before but the decision was made based on the majority of existing fixture style, color, and what is readily available to buy. I hope I didn't do something wrong! Please advise, or if I should start a new topic thread, I will be happy to do so.

JohnB26
(South Carolina)

Posts:487

07/20/2010 6:26 AM
what is 'readily available to buy' at the 'big box stores' is junk the real fixtures are a 'special order' (translation: not normally stocked) food for thought: why would 10 year old fixtures/windows need replacing at all?

SteveM9
(Massachusetts)

Posts:1442

07/20/2010 8:50 AM
I've ordered Harvey vinyl windows for years. They come in a large variety of exterior color and 3 colors for the inside. http://www.harveybp.com/product.aspx?pid=15&shape=2 They are 10x the quality of the home depot windows at a slight price increase. Were not talking Pella window prices, much, much less. I've ordered many custom size Harvey windows where a stock window wouldn't work. They fit perfect. Turn around time was about 3 weeks. Never any problems with these windows, I love vinyl. No maintenance besides Windex. If your not local to Harvey shipping zones, I'm sure you can find a similar window company that offers the same idea.

KM1
(FL)

Posts:62

07/20/2010 7:14 PM
Great sources, I will research all!

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