Chances are that if you are “in the market” for replacement windows in Columbus, Ohio, you’ve likely heard of or already had one if not two of these companies into your home for a quote. Both McCloud Windows and Window World sell Alside brand windows, but clearly one is better than the other, so keep reading.
How much do quality Replacement Windows Cost?
Replacing the windows in your home is a big investment and none of us want to get it wrong. We also don’t want to learn after installation that we paid more than we needed to or that we focused too much on price and ended up with a not-so-great window.
In the Columbus market, some window companies make their own windows and some act as a dealer and sell well-known, high-quality windows made by a large window manufacturers. In the case of Window World and McCloud Windows, both of these two companies offer different versions of the Alside Window.
Alside Windows – Quattro vs. 4000 Series
Both the Alside Quattro Window and the Alside 4000 Series Window are quality products, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of each one to help you decide which might be the better option for you:
Alside Quattro Window
- Design and Construction: The Quattro series is typically known for its premium design, including a sleek, modern appearance and a focus on energy efficiency. The frame tends to be slimmer, which provides more glass area, allowing more natural light into the home.
- Energy Efficiency: Quattro windows usually come with enhanced energy-efficient features, such as Low-E glass and argon gas fill, which help in reducing heat transfer, making them ideal for better temperature control in your home.
- Durability: The Quattro series is generally built with high-quality materials that are durable and can withstand the elements for longer periods.
- Cost: Being a premium product, the Quattro windows are usually on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Alside 4000 Series Window
- Design and Construction: The 4000 series is often considered a more budget-friendly option, with solid construction and performance. It has a traditional design but might have a slightly bulkier frame compared to the Quattro series.
- Energy Efficiency: The 4000 series still includes energy-efficient features like Low-E glass and an insulated frame. However, it may not have the same advanced technology found in the Quattro windows, which could affect long-term energy savings.
- Durability: While the 4000 series is durable, it might not have the same level of robustness and longevity as the Quattro windows.
- Cost: The 4000 series is typically less expensive, making it a good option for those on a budget who still want a reliable window.
Is one Alside Window better than the other?
- If you’re looking for a more energy-efficient, sleek design and can invest a bit more: The Alside Quattro Window would likely be the better choice. It’s a higher-end, more modern option with a greater focus on energy performance.
- If you’re working with a budget but still want solid quality: The Alside 4000 Series Window would be a good option. While it may not have all the high-end features of the Quattro, it still offers good performance at a more affordable price.
Ultimately, the best window for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. Would you like more details on either of these windows, like their specific energy ratings or warranty information?
Window World – Alside 4000 Window Series
We invited “Walt” of Window World into our home to get a quote to replace all twelve builder grade windows. He walked in with his bag of “stuff,” his window sample and his brochures.
“Walt” seemed a bit quirky, but very knowledgeable about his windows. He shared that he had been around window manufacturing and window sales for over 20 years. I think his family has been in the world of window manufacturing for several generations. However, he spoke so quickly, I likely missed some of his story and many of details about his window.
He immediately pulled out his brochure and a pen that he used as a pointer and began to highlight the features of how his window is manufactured. To be honest, he moved around the brochure pretty fast and I’m not sure I caught even 50% of what he shared from the brochure.
We explained that we wanted a quote for our 12 windows, white, double-paned and double hung. He pulled out a Window World quote sheet and began to fill in the options with the number of windows for each type. His quote sheet included five sections:
- Window World Basics
- Glass/Window Options
- Door Options
- Pre-1978 Built Home option
- Miscellaneous options
Once he added all the options together his total price was $10,673 making them number two, currently on the Wacky Window Woman Replacement Window comparison chart.
On Window World’s quote, he also noted ways to take away features in an effort to reduce the price. We could have removed argon gas or Low-E glass for example, but those were all items we knew we wanted and were non-negotiable. For us, there was nothing we were willing to remove to reduce the price.
McCloud Windows – Alside Quattro Window Series
McCloud Windows has a very small sales team of two gentlemen. The designated McCloud Window Representative will help you understand how windows are manufactured, the features and benefits of the Alside Quattro and Mezzo Window along with the differences of the two series. They will help you understand double-pane vs. triple-pane, so you can determine which might be best for you. They will cover their warranty details and how the measure and installation appointments work. Depending on the number of questions you have, they can be in and out in 45 minutes or so.
I was impressed by “Joe’s” demo of Alside Quattro Window and especially the memory mesh screen. He put a golf tee right through the screen and left it there for a few minutes. When he took it out, the hole the tee left was pretty good size, definitely, large enough that a small bug could get through. But then, he rubbed the screen and the memory mesh went right back to its original form and bam, no room for a bug to sneak through. McCloud Window’s Quote for our home was $ 10,380, about $300 less than Window World who is currently #2 on the Wackly Window Woman Comparison Chart.
They will ask you to buy today, but if you share with them that you need a day or two to think on it, they’re okay with that too. What you’ll likely find even if you do get a few quotes, is that 95% of the time McCloud Windows will be less money, I know this after meeting and speaking to owner Nathan McCloud. He takes great pride in not over-charging us folks in Buckeye Nation. If you can schedule your in-home quotes and arrange for McCloud to be the last one you consider, then you can be efficient with your time and can sign on the day they quote you their price.
McCloud Windows vs. Window World – Who has the most competitive Price?
When you take into consideration, price alone, McCloud Windows is more affordable plus when you also add in that the Alside 4000 series window isn’t quite up to par with the Alside Quattro series that McCloud offers, it’s a no brainer. Based on those two facts, in this match-up McCloud Windows is clearly the winner. They are less money and offer a better Alside Window than Window World.
