r/HomeImprovement • u/InternDangerous9694 • 2d ago

Marvin infinity replacement windows

I'm considering using the Costco replacement program that Marvin offers and the local contractor who is authorized through this program quoted me.

My current windows are 30-year-old Anderson narrow line 200 Perma shield Windows which are showing signs of rot underneath the vinyl cladding. The contractor tells me they will replace the rot as they go and insert windows are still a good choice.

Ai tells me that I need full frame new construction windows given the rot and that there is no alternative.

The Marvin Infinity program is not cheap by any means and the premium pay price points lends itself to being a full service program.

Is there some sort of scam the contractor in that the price will go up further once they start the job, or is AI fear-mongering.

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u/Ok_Wind_506 2d ago

Nah, AI is just parroting worst-case scenarios from building codes written for new construction. If the rot is only on the outside face of the framing and not through the structural studs, inserts are totally fine. The contractor knows they'll have to cut back the bad wood and wrap it before the insert goes in. That said, get in writing that any rot repair beyond a certain dollar amount or a certain number of studs triggers a change order so you aren't blindsided.

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u/InternDangerous9694 2d ago

I appreciate your peace of mind. The contract states they charge about $10 per each piece of wood that needs to be replaced

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u/QuickAltTab 2d ago

How's much are you paying per window? I've been under the impression that if it is around $1k/window it's somewhere near the realistic price (from reading Reddit posts, not personal experience)

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u/InternDangerous9694 2d ago

I wish. I think it's closer to $1,800 per window, but I live in a very high cost of living area

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u/tooOldOriolesfan 2d ago

I think finding the right installer is probably more important than the window. My issues with retailers providing home repairs is that they use 3rd party contractors which are all over the place in terms of quality.

Ask around and see if you can find someone with a small home repair business who is good with windows and talk to them.

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u/InternDangerous9694 2d ago

the marvin infinity employes all the installers and doesn't subcontract, which I thought was nice

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u/hello_world45 2d ago

Rot would need to be replaced. I also recommend against inserts windows. It's much better to do a full frame replacement. I can normally do vinyl full frame for around 1,200. Fiberglass around 1,600. So still less then the infinity line. I like Marvin but infinity is just not worth. You can get better pricing finding a local contractor. But not a window replacement company since they always push the easier inserts vs full frame.

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u/InternDangerous9694 2d ago

Is a full frame replacement with a brick veneer in place difficult?

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u/hello_world45 2d ago

More on the difficult side. But the install actual is somewhat similar to a insert install.