Affordable Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) Options?

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sdlshopper
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat Dec 04, 2010 3:51 pm

Affordable Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) Options?

#1 Post by sdlshopper »

I am looking for a replacement window with an "affordable" option for simulated divided lite (SDL). I added a new garage in 2004 and installed 4 Windsor Legend Cellular PVC windows with SDL to match windows on existing structure. Now I want to replace the remaining 12 windows on existing structure. It is extremely important to me to retain the architectural integrity of the home. Therefore, I am somewhat locked into matching the 4 Windsor SDL that I put on the new garage - short of finding a new window that is cost effective to replace all 16 windows vs. replacing only the 12 on existing structure. I have priced going with grills between the glass (GBG) on all 16 windows as a less expensive option, but I prefer the traditional look of SDL on the house.

I have considered ordering 12 more Windsors to get a good match with the garage. However, the Windors are more expensive than some other options and are no longer sold in my area. I am hesitant to pay the addtional shipping for the Windors and prefer to deal with a local vendor/contractor who will both sell and install the Window.

The 3 options I am considering are the Monarch M-Cell Composite, Ply Gem 400 Series cellular PVC (both paintable PVC and good match with Windsor), and the Paradigm Tapestry which range from $8k to $10k including install. I considered Anderson, Pella, Marvin, & Sunrise but all out of my price range. (I liked the Sunrise window but they want $227 per window additional for SDL for my 9 over 9 colonial. Further, Sunrise does a "pocket" install and wraps the existinig brick mould and that would not match the existing Windors on the new garage).

Please advise on your recommendation between Monarch M-Cell, Ply Gem 400 Series, and Paradigm Tapestry with Simulated Divided Lite options. Please advise if there are any windows I should consider in this price range
Last edited by sdlshopper on Sat Dec 04, 2010 11:12 pm, edited 1 time in total.

buddy110
Posts: 938
Joined: Thu Nov 01, 2007 12:43 pm
Location: Lower Hudson Valley NY
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Re: Affordable Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) Options?

#2 Post by buddy110 »

Honestly I don't recognize any of those names. Softlite will make a new cosntruction nail fin available (any window will actually) so you can do a NC type install. Marvin ultimate is a hell of a window but no where near your price range.

SuperiorW&D
Posts: 44
Joined: Sat Jul 03, 2010 1:25 pm
Location: Medford, OR

Re: Affordable Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) Options?

#3 Post by SuperiorW&D »

I have used Ply Gem Windows with their SDL grid on quite a few homes over the past 2 years with no issues. IMHO, Ply Gem makes a "decent" window and the price is right. I can not say whether it was the 400 series or not.

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