Author:
Kaitlyn Short
LAST UPDATED: October 7th, 2024
Alside is a top manufacturer of exterior building products, known for its wide range of siding, windows, and patio doors. With over 70 years in the industry, Alside focuses on innovation and quality, offering solutions that enhance home aesthetics, energy efficiency, and durability. Their products are crafted from advanced materials to ensure lasting performance, even in challenging environments. Alside’s commitment to customer satisfaction shines through comprehensive support, from product selection to installation, making them a trusted partner for residential and commercial projects.
In addition to quality, Alside emphasizes sustainability by designing energy-efficient products like vinyl siding, which helps homeowners reduce both energy costs and environmental impact. With a variety of styles and colors, Alside empowers homeowners to create energy-efficient, visually appealing homes that stand the test of time, maintaining their leadership in the exterior building products industry.
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The Good
- Wide Range of Window Styles
- Window Technology
- Longevity and Durability
- Customization and Aesthetic Flexibility
- Client Care
Wide Range of Window Styles
Alside offers an array of window styles that cater to various architectural preferences, making them suitable for both traditional and modern homes. Available styles include:
- Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows: Classic choices with sliding sashes, ideal for easy cleaning and efficient ventilation.
- Casement and Awning Windows: These feature strong seals and stainless steel hardware, making them durable and easy to operate.
- Bay and Bow Windows: Combinations of double-hung, casement, or fixed-lite windows add dimension and panoramic views.
- Garden and Swing & Clean Windows: Garden windows offer shelf space for plants, while Swing & Clean windows allow convenient, inward swinging for simple cleaning.
- Geometric and Picture Windows: Designed for visual appeal and maximum light, they fit custom shapes and sizes.
These styles ensure Alside’s windows can meet diverse aesthetic and functional needs in both new construction and replacement projects.
Window Technology
Alside’s advanced technology and design in their new window products are key elements that set them apart in the industry, offering both aesthetic appeal and superior functionality. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes their approach to window technology and design so distinctive:
- Precision Engineering: Alside's windows are meticulously engineered for optimal performance and durability. Fusion-welded frames and sashes create a robust, airtight seal, ensuring energy efficiency and weather resistance. The structural integrity of the windows is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, providing long-term reliability and reducing maintenance costs.
- Innovative Materials: Alside utilizes innovative materials to enhance the performance of their windows. Multi-chambered vinyl frames offer superior insulation, trapping air within multiple compartments to reduce heat transfer. Low-E glass coatings reflect heat back into the home during winter while blocking UV rays in the summer, contributing to energy savings and protecting interior furnishings.
- Enhanced Security and Safety Features: Alside prioritizes security in their window designs, incorporating advanced locking mechanisms and impact-resistant glass options. This provides added peace of mind, protecting against potential intruders and extreme weather conditions.
- Energy Efficiency: Alside is committed to energy efficiency, incorporating advanced technologies into their window design. Most Alside windows are ENERGY STAR-certified and include features like Low-E glass, insulated frames, and advanced spacers to minimize heat transfer, making them ideal for reducing energy costs.
Longevity And Durability
Alside windows, primarily made from multi-chambered vinyl, are engineered for long-term durability, typically lasting 20–40 years. Their fusion-welded frames resist warping, cracking, and moisture, even in challenging climates. Vinyl frames provide robust insulation, helping to maintain indoor temperatures and withstand seasonal changes. Alside’s windows also feature Low-E glass, reducing wear on frames and helping maintain structural integrity over time.
Customization and Aesthetic Flexibility
Alside understands that every home is unique and offers a wide range of customization options to suit different architectural styles and personal preferences. Windows are available in various shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired look. Decorative features such as grids, custom glass designs, and trim options further personalize each window.
Client Care
Alside’s comprehensive customer service and support are key components that set the company apart in the exterior building products industry. Their dedication to providing an exceptional customer experience is evident at every stage of the process, from the initial consultation to post-installation follow-up.
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The Bad
- Outsourced Work to Dealers
- Drawback Features
Outsourced Work to Dealers
The quality of window installation is a critical factor that can significantly impact the performance, longevity, and overall satisfaction with your new windows. While Alside partners with a network of certified installers to ensure their products are installed correctly, the actual quality of the installation can vary from one contractor to another. Here’s an expanded look at the factors contributing to this variability and why it’s important to choose your installer carefully:
- Contractor Experience and Expertise: The skill and experience of the installer play a crucial role in the outcome of the installation. Even though Alside provides certification and training to their network of installers, the level of expertise can vary. Some contractors may have years of experience installing Alside windows, with a deep understanding of the best practices for achieving optimal results. Others, however, might be newer to the product line or less experienced overall, which could lead to mistakes or shortcuts that compromise the installation quality.
- Attention to Detail: High-quality window installation requires meticulous attention to detail. This includes ensuring that the window is properly aligned, sealed, and secured to prevent air and water infiltration. An installer who rushes the job or overlooks small details can leave gaps or uneven seals that may not be immediately noticeable but can lead to significant issues over time. For instance, poor sealing can result in drafts, energy loss, and increased utility bills. Over time, water infiltration due to improper sealing can cause damage to the window frame and surrounding structure, leading to costly repairs.
- Installation Techniques and Tools: The methods and tools used during installation can also vary among contractors. Some installers may use advanced techniques and high-quality materials, such as premium sealants and insulation, to enhance the performance of the windows. Others might rely on basic tools and materials, which could result in a less durable or efficient installation. For example, the use of inferior sealants might initially appear sufficient but could degrade quickly, leading to problems like leaks or frame warping.
- Adherence to Manufacturer Guidelines: Alside provides specific installation guidelines designed to maximize the performance and longevity of their windows. However, the extent to which these guidelines are followed can vary. Some installers may strictly adhere to these recommendations, ensuring that every aspect of the installation meets Alside’s standards. Others might cut corners, especially if they are under time constraints or trying to reduce costs, which can result in an installation that does not fully comply with the manufacturer’s best practices. This non-compliance can lead to issues such as improper insulation or incorrect window positioning, both of which can diminish the window’s effectiveness.
- Impact on Warranty: The quality of the installation can directly impact the validity of your warranty. Many window warranties, including those offered by Alside, require that the windows be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. If an installation is poorly executed or if the installer fails to follow the recommended guidelines, it could void the warranty, leaving you without coverage in the event of defects or failures. This means that any future repairs or replacements due to installation errors could be out-of-pocket expenses.
- Customer Satisfaction and Long-Term Performance: The variability in installation quality can also affect your overall satisfaction with the windows. A properly installed window will perform as expected, providing energy efficiency, sound insulation, and aesthetic appeal. Conversely, a poorly installed window can lead to ongoing issues such as drafts, moisture problems, and decreased comfort in your home. Over time, these problems can lead to frustration and additional costs, potentially overshadowing the initial benefits of choosing a quality window product like Alside.
- Selecting a Reputable Installer: Given the potential variability in installation quality, it’s crucial to thoroughly research and select a reputable installer. Look for contractors with strong reviews, testimonials, and a proven track record of successful window installations. It’s also beneficial to ask for references from previous customers and to verify that the installer has the necessary certifications and experience with Alside products. Taking the time to choose a skilled and reliable installer can significantly reduce the risks associated with installation variability and ensure that your windows perform to their full potential.
While Alside windows are designed for durability and performance, the quality of the installation is a pivotal factor that can either enhance or undermine these attributes. By understanding the factors that contribute to installation variability and carefully selecting a qualified installer, you can help ensure that your investment in new windows delivers the comfort, efficiency, and long-term satisfaction you expect.
Drawback Features
While Alside is known for its quality products and comprehensive services, there are a few potential downsides to consider when hiring them for new windows.
- Higher Costs for Premium Options: While Alside offers a range of pricing, premium options—such as multi-chambered vinyl frames and Low-E glass—can be more costly than standard options. Homeowners on a budget may find lower-cost alternatives, though these may lack the durability and energy-saving benefits of Alside’s higher-end products.
- Regional Availability Challenges: Alside products are widely available across the U.S., but certain regions may have limited access to certified installers, which could lead to longer lead times for delivery and installation, as well as variations in service quality.
Alside Window Costs
Alside windows are competitively priced, though costs vary based on materials, features, and customizations. Estimated costs for popular styles include:
- Single-Hung Windows: $200–$600 per window
- Double-Hung Windows: $300–$800 per window
- Casement Windows: $350–$900 per window
- Bay and Bow Windows: $1,000–$3,500 per window
Installation costs generally range from $100 to $500 per window, depending on project complexity and location.
Alside Windows Energy Efficiency
Alside’s commitment to energy efficiency is one of the most defining aspects of their window products, making them a leader in the industry when it comes to creating environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions for homes. Here’s an expanded look at how Alside incorporates energy efficiency into every facet of their window design:
- Low-E Glass Technology: At the heart of Alside’s energy-efficient windows is their use of Low-E (low-emissivity) glass technology. This advanced glass coating is designed to reflect infrared light, keeping heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer. By controlling the amount of heat that passes through the window, Low-E glass significantly reduces the energy required to heat or cool a home, leading to lower energy bills. Additionally, Low-E glass blocks harmful UV rays that can cause furniture, flooring, and window treatments to fade, providing an extra layer of protection for your home’s interior.
- Multi-Chambered Vinyl Frames: Alside’s windows feature multi-chambered vinyl frames that enhance insulation by trapping air within multiple compartments. This design acts as a thermal barrier, reducing the transfer of heat and cold through the window frame. Unlike metal or single-chambered frames, which can conduct heat and contribute to energy loss, Alside’s vinyl frames offer superior energy efficiency, helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduce the strain on heating and cooling systems.
- Insulated Glass Units (IGUs): Alside windows are equipped with insulated glass units (IGUs) that consist of two or more glass panes separated by a spacer and sealed to create an insulating air space. This design is crucial in minimizing heat transfer between the inside and outside of a home. The air space between the panes acts as an insulator, reducing the amount of heat that escapes in the winter and preventing heat from entering in the summer. Some Alside windows also use argon gas, a denser gas than air, to fill the space between the panes, further enhancing the window’s insulation properties.
- Advanced Spacer Systems: The spacer systems used in Alside’s IGUs are designed to maintain the correct distance between the glass panes while minimizing thermal conductivity. Traditional aluminum spacers can conduct heat and cold, leading to energy loss and condensation around the edges of the glass. Alside uses advanced, non-metallic spacers that reduce thermal transfer, helping to keep the edges of the window warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This innovation not only improves energy efficiency but also extends the life of the IGU by reducing the stress on the sealant.
- Weatherstripping and Sealing: Alside windows are equipped with high-performance weatherstripping that creates a tight seal against the elements. This prevents drafts and reduces air infiltration, ensuring that the conditioned air inside your home stays put. The quality of the weatherstripping, combined with the precision-fit construction of the windows, plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall energy efficiency of the product. By effectively sealing out the elements, Alside windows help maintain a comfortable indoor environment and reduce the need for heating and cooling.
- ENERGY STAR® Certification: Many of Alside’s window products are ENERGY STAR® certified, which means they meet or exceed the strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ENERGY STAR® windows are independently tested and verified to ensure they provide significant energy savings and environmental benefits. By choosing Alside windows with ENERGY STAR® certification, homeowners can be confident that they are investing in products that will help lower their energy costs while reducing their carbon footprint.
- Environmental and Financial Benefits: The energy efficiency of Alside windows offers both environmental and financial advantages. By reducing the energy needed to heat and cool a home, these windows help decrease greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable future. For homeowners, the reduced energy consumption translates directly into lower utility bills, making Alside windows a cost-effective investment over the long term. Additionally, some homeowners may be eligible for tax credits or rebates for installing energy-efficient windows, further enhancing the financial benefits.
Alside’s dedication to energy efficiency is reflected in every aspect of their window design, from the use of advanced materials and technologies to the careful attention to sealing and insulation. By prioritizing energy efficiency, Alside windows help homeowners create more comfortable, sustainable, and cost-effective living spaces, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home’s energy performance.
Alside Windows Warranty
Alside stands behind the quality of their products with comprehensive warranties that provide peace of mind for their customers. These warranties cover a wide range of potential issues, from material defects to installation-related problems, ensuring that customers are protected long after the project is completed. Their variety of warranties for their window products include a lifetime limited warranty for defects in materials and workmanship, a glass breakage warranty, a screen warranty, a hermetic seal warranty, and a labor warranty.
In the event that a warranty claim is necessary, Alside’s customer service team is readily available to assist with the process, providing prompt and efficient resolution to any concerns. This commitment to after-sales service reinforces Alside’s dedication to customer satisfaction and long-term relationships.
Alside Customer Support
Here’s an in-depth look at how Alside’s customer service and support make them a trusted partner for homeowners, contractors, and builders:
- Personalized Consultation and Product Selection: Alside begins the customer journey with personalized consultation services designed to understand the unique needs and preferences of each client. Whether you are a homeowner looking to enhance your home’s curb appeal or a contractor managing a large-scale project, Alside’s team of experts is there to guide you through the product selection process. They take the time to assess your specific requirements, budget, and aesthetic goals, helping you choose the right products that meet both functional and design criteria. This personalized approach ensures that you receive tailored recommendations that align with your project’s vision and needs.
- Extensive Product Knowledge and Expertise: Alside's customer service team possesses deep knowledge of their products and industry trends, allowing them to provide informed advice and recommendations. Whether customers have questions about energy efficiency, material durability, or design options, Alside's representatives are equipped to offer detailed explanations.
- Streamlined Installation Process: A key aspect of Alside’s customer service is their commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient installation process. Alside works closely with a network of trusted, certified installers who are trained to meet the company’s high standards for workmanship and professionalism. These installers are well-versed in Alside’s products and installation techniques, ensuring that the windows, siding, or patio doors are installed correctly and to the highest quality. Alside’s coordination with installers helps minimize disruption to your home or worksite, and they work to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.
- Ongoing Communication and Support: Throughout the installation process, Alside maintains open lines of communication with their customers. This proactive approach allows customers to stay informed about the progress of their project, address any concerns promptly, and ensure that all expectations are met. Alside’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness helps build trust and confidence, as customers know they can rely on the company to address any issues or questions that arise. This ongoing support extends beyond the installation phase, as Alside continues to provide assistance with product care, maintenance, and warranty inquiries.
- Training and Support for Contractors and Builders: Alside also offers robust support for contractors and builders, recognizing that their success is closely tied to the success of their professional partners. Alside provides training programs, product demonstrations, and technical support to ensure that contractors are fully equipped to install and work with their products. This ongoing education helps contractors stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and Alside innovations, enabling them to deliver the highest quality results to their clients. Alside’s partnership approach extends to offering marketing support and resources, helping contractors grow their businesses while delivering exceptional service to their customers.
- Customer Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Alside values customer feedback as an essential component of their commitment to continuous improvement. They actively seek out customer reviews and testimonials to better understand the experiences of their clients. This feedback is used to refine their products, services, and support processes, ensuring that they continue to meet and exceed customer expectations. Alside’s willingness to listen and adapt to customer needs is a testament to their dedication to excellence in customer service.
Alside’s comprehensive customer service and support are designed to create a seamless, stress-free experience for their clients. From personalized consultations and expert guidance to streamlined installation and ongoing after-sales support, Alside’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident at every stage. Their focus on building strong relationships, combined with their industry-leading products, makes Alside a trusted partner for any exterior building project.
Comparison to Competitors
Alside competes directly with brands like Andersen and Pella, known for high-quality windows. While Andersen often features premium wood options, Alside offers a more budget-friendly vinyl alternative with similar energy-saving benefits. Alside’s customization and extensive style options give it an edge over competitors in terms of affordability, and its vinyl windows require far less maintenance than wood-based frames, making them ideal for homeowners seeking durability without the upkeep.
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The Bottom Line
Alside stands as a trusted leader in the exterior building products industry, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality windows, siding, and patio doors. With a strong commitment to innovation, energy efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Alside provides products that are not only durable and aesthetically pleasing but also designed to meet the unique needs of each project. Their advanced technology ensures that homeowners and professionals alike receive cutting-edge solutions that enhance both the functionality and beauty of their homes.
Alside’s dedication to customer service and support sets them apart, with personalized consultations, expert guidance, and a network of certified installers ensuring a smooth and successful experience from start to finish. While there are considerations such as installation quality variability, Alside’s focus on quality, sustainability, and continuous improvement makes them a reliable partner for any exterior renovation or construction project.
In choosing Alside, customers gain access to a company with decades of experience, a reputation for excellence, and a deep commitment to delivering products that not only meet but exceed expectations. Whether you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, update its appearance, or ensure long-lasting performance, Alside provides the expertise and solutions to achieve your goals.
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