I'm trying to figure out which windows to buy for our new home build. The basement is getting an ICF addition, walls are SIP's, the roof will be sprayed insulation, and we'll be using hydronic in-floor heating. The costs are getting kinda high but I think it's worth it.

 Now for windows. We are in Calgary Alberta where the temps range from -30 to +30 celcius and it's a pretty dry climate. We have a large windowed area south facing two stories high.

 I was thinking of going with triple paned low-e argon all the way around but I was thinking maybe the south wall should be double to get more solar gain.

 I got quotes from Jeldwin for vinyl windows for the lower cost, around $25000 with doors, but I like the aluminum clad wood windows. I got a quote from Lux for double the price, $45000 with exterior doors. I was just going to check out Loewen's clad windows but I'm sure they will cost even more.

 I've read a ton of information but I still can't decide. Just to add, I'm sure the wife will want to paint all the frames white anyways to match our craftsman style home exterior.

Thanks,
Sean

http://www.europeanwindows.com/

has nice products he is in Gainsville,GA

I checked out the link and they look good, problem is I was hoping for a local distributer. I still have to check out Marvin and maybe Pella.

 

Sean

http://www.profine-group.com/ecomaXL/index.php?site=PROFINE_EN_home

They are in Canada as well

 I have a local company that is really close to my house, Gienow Windows and Doors, they have been around about as long as I have. I can't find any complaints about them and my SIP supplier recommended them as well. I'm waiting to hear back to put in for a quote but the salesman I talked to said they compare in price to Jeldwen or just a little higher for the metal clad wood. Anyone have any input, I don't really understand the ratings and construction of them but I figure they're probably designed for our region.

http://www.gienow.com/index.html

Thanks,
Sean

Check out Duxton windows in Winnipeg. They make a good fiberglass window. With extreme temperatures like that you would probably want a window that is very resistant to expansion and contraction.

This is what they want to hear.  You are going to take it for grated that the salesmen/window supplier are going to give you what is ideal for your area?

Advice:  go to a home show and go to all of the window suppliers.  Ask the U-value and SHGC, etc. of their windows and the pricing.  That is how you compare. If you can't get a straight/direct answer there is something wrong.  There are guys out there (in the U.S.) that put the energy star sticker on their windows becaus they qualify in a particular region, however it is not ncessarily the same region that they are marketing in, a little misleading. 

Do your research then ask questions, don't ever take anything for granted when someone is trying to sell you something.

Maybe, but they are not tested with anyone...CAN/CSA, Energy Star, NFRC, or AAMA.