Replacing sliding windows

we're in the process of replacing with milgard basic clear aluminum sliders -- the most basic windows milgard makes. we ordered them through a bigbox store (the orange one) for about $1500 for all (4 large, 2 small). we figured we've save more time and be happier than trying to clean 40 years of crap and oxidation off of the original ones. while i have seen a variety of commercial and residential windows (we've had them on our former new loft/condo), i'm not familiar with the bloomberg brand, but have not been disappointed with the milgards. the biggest change was that we had to go to 3 panes rather than 2 on the larger windows because of the expanse of glass on the original windows. as for installation, you can get them without the nail-fins, but you have to ask for them -- otherwise, they'll come with nailing fins which you don't want. eichler windows install a bit differently than your typical replacement -- being held in only by 3/4in redwood sticks... but they're dead-easy to install yourself. the biggest problem that we had is that the window "holes" were not perfectly on the mark, measurement-wise (what we roughly measured as a 3X7ft. hole was a teensy-bit smaller) and we had to shave off some wood to make them fit as they should. if they were 1/4in smaller, we'd be golden... we're still in install-mode, so no pictures yet... but if you're close, you can stop by and take a peek.

We replaced 3 of our original bedroom sliders with Milgard aluminum earlier this year. They look GREAT, work great and we are very happy with them. Since the new windows are not single panes, as were the originals, they have a bit more depth(?) but nothing too noticeable. I beleive they came in white finished aluminum or the metal finish which is what we ordered and it looks like a perfect replacement for our originals. Not shiny at all, very matte.

We do many things ourselves but windows don't fall into that category so we paid to have them installed. Around $1900 which included replacing very damaged framing and putting in new redwood strips, etc. Also, our windows were all different sizes even though they look the same...each wider/narrower/higher/shorter than the others by as much as an inch. Be sure to check your measurements carefully.

Good luck!

I have heard good things about the Milguard Sliders...
Have many Blomberg smaller windows that we have have
installed the last 3 years but they are pricey and if we hadn't
ordered Arcadia Sliders years ago, we would consider Milguard.
Take Care,
Gerald

:) We are about 80% through with replacement of all our doors [except one replaced aobut 5 years ago with an off brand] and openable windows with Milgard aluminum products - the dark brownish color that is closest to the Eichler black. We are very happy with the way they look and work.

Marshall

Thanks to all--this is very helpful.
Has anyone had Milgards for 5-10 years who can comment on their long-term durability?

Hi Redneckmodern (or anyone),

Actually, I'd love to come take a look, if possible. I'm in Palo Alto--650-813-0507. Which store did you buy them at?

We had all the windows and sliding glass doors replaced with Milgard "Bronze" (black really) aluminum models in 1998 and I couldn't be happier with how they've held up. They still feel and look new. Considering the appearance and durability for the price I think they're a great choice.

-Andrew

we're in concord and while you're welcome to stop by, ajm's house in sunnyvale would be closer. if you want, email me offline @ red (at) redneckmodern (dot) com...

AJM--any chance I could come out and take a look at your windows? I'm in Palo Alto. Call me at 650-380-4013.