Noob on this forum. Did a search and found some useful information, but still looking for advice for my particular situation. Here are the specifics - Replacing old single pane wood windows with Vinyl windows - Looking to purchase new construction windows and install myself - This allows me to see what has been going on in and around inner and outside walls & insulate between windows and rough openings which out to happen and will not occur if I go the replacement route - House is in Massachusetts - Looking for double hung - For most common window size approx 33" X 61 3/4" I'm budgeting $500 per window, open to be convinced to go up to $600, and obviously want higher value for lower cost. - Windows currently have 4x3 grill per pane. Would like to maintain this aesthetic. Now for the loaded question. What manufacturers should I look into that will sell new construction windows direct to consumer in the Mass area? I just started the search process and it appears at first blush that many manufacturers do not sell direct to consumers. There are the Big Box stores, but among the industry chatter it appears that people are not super jazzed with Andersen or Pella offerings. Thanks!

I've been replacing my original sp windows with Marvin Integrity. They are in your price range and a FAR better window than any of the plastic ones. the structural part and exterior is fiberglass which is essentially weatherproof and the interior is pine. I've been using their standard new construction window and I remove the entire old window, not just the sash as in most window replacements, then replace the casing on the exterior; fitting into the existing siding. You have to buy them from a lumber yard, where you should get real service unlike the big boxes.

I'm in NY and my windows that I sell even my composite windows would come in less than what you are budget is. I'm curious why you need new construction windows for an already installed window. Sounds like you can use a replacement window and save yourself a lot of time and effort. Pictures please?

I have a few reasons why I'd prefer to install new construction, although I'd be curious to hear the counterpoints. 

1.  Based on the last year of work that I've done, I feel comfortable in saying that there is no insulation between the rough frames and windows in our home, so any interior trim will be ripped out as our windows get replaced and we'll foam in between.
2.  Between the late 70's masonite siding, lack of any exterior vapor barrier, and evidence of past ice dam leaks & moisture problems, the exterior sills are in rough shape and I want to know what is happening under the exterior casings so we may as well get those ripped out as well.

Frankly, there is enough suspect craftsmanship with our house that we would prefer to not put band-aids on band-aids.... Not suggesting replacement windows are band-aids as there are plenty of times where they are great solutions, but we plan on staying in this house for a very long time and we want to make sure that we're not covering up core problems that will manifest in another 5-10 years.

Do it right and do it once.

Don't know if security is a concern but ever been to south fl? The big box retailers sell a similar sized dual pane aluminum single hung impact rated low e windows in the 150 range. Exactly why I'm looking to travel to get windows. You can bounce a basketball ball off of these all day long.

You may want to consider matching your window specs with your home insulation and airtightness. If you have an old home not well insulated, spending big bucks on Windows may not have the best return on investment. With the new energy standards the current "low-end" windows are performing at levels around or above Well respected windows of a few years ago.

If you've got a well insulated and air sealed house high end Windows may make perfect sense. Otherwise your dollars may be better spent on other improvements.