After doing a great deal of research and getting multiple quotes, I decided on Tri State. I have about 9 windows I'd like replaced, and my salesman Paul K. spent 3 hours on our initial meeting at my home and gave me quotes for all, although I ended up only doing 4 windows (1 bay and 2 large casements being enlargements that required major construction) at this time for budget reasons. Never felt any pressure ever, and Paul was super phenomenal answering and listening to EVERY question and concern I had along the way, from Low-e coatings and possible effects on visible transmissivity (and hence on plant growth - I'm an avid windowsill orchid grower), to what types of windows would suit my preferences for maximum light and functionality, to possible customization of the glass panels themselves (since they make their own windows, they can basically do whatever the customer wishes).
Going to their showroom was the next step for me, and it was then I made my decision, as seeing their products and Paul's demonstration of what low-e coatings can do (using a hot lamp), helped put my mind at ease I was making the right decision.
Even though I had some changes to my contract thereafter (went with casements instead of sliders; changed the size of the Bay window), Paul ensured the changes were properly entered and that it would be no problem, and never made me feel like it was any hassle at all.
My windows were ready and an install date was provided within 4 weeks (note: this was in early spring). They told me they would send TWO crews instead of just one, so that my job would be done in a single day. The technicians were courteous, professional and EXTREMELY neat. I was having walls knocked out and headers installed, so was expecting a major mess, but I saw how they changed their drop cloths many times during the day, to minimize the debris in my house making a mess. Overall job was great, I can see these techs were highly experienced.
The first two colors of the shutters I ordered were discontinued, but Paul was a great help even in giving me suggestions on picking out a new color, even saying how he had seen a house with a similar siding color to mine, with the color I was leaning towards, and noting how it looked.
The tips, pointers, data points, ideas and suggestions from Paul on every aspect of my project were invaluable. This is absolutely the BEST customer service I have ever had with any company I have done business with on a major project, in the many years I have owned my home.
And the windows? While I will personally not be able to fully experience their energy efficiency until the winter comes, thus far I am very pleased with their construction and their quality is clearly apparent. Screens on the casements are so easy to remove, windows crank out sturdily, and their sliders are a joy to open and close. The bay window has enormously improved enjoyment of my living room.
By way of point of comparison, I do have some Simonton windows I had previously installed when I moved in (a Simonton bay window, sliders and casements) but I now prefer Tri State's windows. Particularly: Tri State's bay window lets in much more light (the frame of my Simonton bay is very wide & 'clunky' throughout, blocking alot of light); and the slider by Tri State is easier to operate (stays in its track no matter where you push it, whereas my Simonton sliders 'jump' their tracks if you don't push it a certain way).
A++ experience overall. Thank you Paul and Tri State! read more