Let the Light Shine In

The current remodel has deteriorated single pane double-hung windows.  Many were broken when we bought the house, and water has been coming into the vacant property for years.  We must replace 19 windows and 5 French doors, and since the house is located in the hurricane wind zone of central Florida, we must have either shutters or impact rated doors and windows.  We are choosing the impact rating, which bumps the price up significantly. 

Initially we considered PVC or vinyl windows, and received a quote in the $25,000 range. And then we reconsidered the materials.

I read the details from the appraisal, and recognize that the house quality should be at a Q3. I am copying from the appraisal: "Dwellings with this quality rating are residences of higher quality, built from individual or readily available designer plans in above-standard residential tract developments or on an individual property owner's site. The design includes significant exterior ornamentation and interiors that are well finished. The workmanship exceeds acceptable standards and many materials and finishes throughout the dwelling have been upgraded from "stock" standards."

When we met with Maria, our local big box store professional, she sent us off with a sheet of wood samples in three colors of white and a number of plain woods and stained woods. We took that to the house to see what the current window framing color is closest to the paint chip. Initially we had her run pricing for mahogany, but in fact the color matches cherry more closely.  Mahogany Andersen windows will run about $65,000.  

In case you haven't been following this rehab, we paid the comparable price for two beach-side lots...the house was priced to be knocked down, so for the land alone.  We plan on renovating the house, and will still have a lot available for whatever purpose.  A house like this on a single lot may sell between $800,000-90,0000. We paid $620,000.  

What do you think? PVC or wood windows?