I need windows, and I need advice about it!

We've had quotes from sears, Gilkey, and Champion... we're 45 miles west of Chicago, and so far I really like the Gilkey windows, but this is a huge investment and I want to make a good decision here.

Things I am concerned about... a lifetime warrenty from a company that won't dissapear in 5 years. Also afordability is nice, but mostly we plan to stay here for a long time, so quality is paramount above price at the moment.

any advice would be great. Thanks.
Chuck

We prefer the Simonton Impressions 9800 series to the Gilkey products. The performance numbers are about the same but the Impressions is a more attractive unit with shadow grooved fusion welds (unlike Gilkeys rough welds) and an independant lift rail.

Plus, the Simonton doesn't drain rain water through the inside of the sill extrusion. Having mold, dirt and insects permanently stuck inside the window frame would keep me from ever selling a window with that design. My opinion of course.