OP: I'm hoping we'll increase energy efficiency and just be able to see out the windows.

Thanks all for weighing in. Any other company recs?

We are doing windows in phases. Yes, it is insanely expensive even for the vinyl ones we're getting, and we're replacing some doors as well which is even worse. But in terms of the mess, it really isn't bad. We used Nova Installations last year to do half the windows in our house and one door and afterwards there was very little mess/debris, all outside.

In terms of recouping costs, our old windows were really bad (original to our 1950 house, and had not been maintained) but I think it would take many years to make it worthwhile from an energy savings angle. We did it more bc the old ones were non-functioning and looked so bad.

OP: We have 45 windows because of how the windows spaces are designed. Think craftsman style house/ window look.

Thanks for the Windows Universe suggestion. We currently have just one bid from NOVA Installations.

Would anyone recommend doing the project in phases over 2 years? Or is it a big mess? We'd like to have the house painted this year too.

We used Windows Universe because of 1) their prices 2) no high pressure sales tactics 3) good range of options and 4) great communications. I had 4 windows and a sliding glass patio door replaced for $3100.

How wedded to the divided panes are you-they add significantly to cost. We're in the midst of replacing our windows (Marvin fiberglass) and adding simulated divided lights is nearly a third of the total estimate (we have to have them as we are in a historic district and needed them in order to get the replacements approved). If you can do between the pane dividers, or even the snap in plastic ones you may save a lot of money.

Also, be sure to get more than one estimate. $40k seems very high unless you have a lot of windows or very strange size windows. We're paying less than $20k to replace 17, including some structural work to make one a different size and capping all the exterior framing.

We got Marvin and they are overrated. We got some HD Anderson for the basement and they are just as nice and some cheap vinyl for where no one sees - they are ok but I prefer the wood like. I would not spend $40,000 but they are worth it in terms of making the house more comfortable.

You will never recoup energy savings, but at least you'll see better out of them.

If you are going to live in the house for a bunch of years, then yes, get new windows. Good windows make a house so much more energy efficient, they'll make you more comfortable and cut your utility bills.

If you are doing wood windows then that number is not unheard of. Vinyl will be cheaper.

yep windows are seriously expensive if you get good ones. and even if you don't....

OP: what are other good brands? My husband swears by Consumer Reports and top brands are Pella and Marvin...

I'd get more quotes.

Is you house a mansion? I had 12 single windows and 4 double windows replaced for around $15k. Granted that was a few years ago, but within the last few years for double paned type windows that open from top or bottom, etc.

hmmm I think you need to check out checkbook.com they did an article on windows basically steering people away from big name brands.

40k?! Omg I had no idea windows were this much!

Home built mid 90s. Paned glass windows - lots of them. Purchased house almost 3 years ago. The seals have started popping and it will cost a considerable amount to fix the current damaged panes and assume more will fail.

Received an estimate of $40k to replace all the windows and retain the wood paned glass look (pella inserts I believe).

Anyone know the deal with energy tax credits in VA? Would you do the project in two phases (front facing windows/ rooms and rear facing)? Other issues we should consider? Thanks.