Builder Grade. That's the term for the quality of material used to build our house and thousands of other tract homes around the solid middle class neighborhoods that sprang up in the cotton fields surrounding Dallas, Texas in the 1980's.
After 38 years; actually, well before our house was 38 years old, our builder grade windows received a failing grade. The seals had been compromised, moisture between the panes had occluded the visibility. Our outlook on the world was hazy. The old house had severe cataracts. From the inside looking out, we had long suffered a dystopian mirage of the world beyond.
 |
| The worst of the worst. Our scabby master bathroom window (always hidden by a lowered shade). Other windows were leaking air and had severe cataracts. |
We needed a clear view and the allied clear mind.
After getting three bids, we went with Home Depot, not the cheapest, but they had good financing options. We got the call; the crew would be out early on January 2. The first working day of 2026. I told 'em, "Back up the truck, this will be a great way to start the new year."
With a pop, rip, snap and the sound of breaking glass, all 19 cruddy windows were removed and replaced with crystal clear, high grade energy efficient pre-measured new glass.
Master Bedroom windows gone. 
Taking out the nasty bathroom pane 
Upstairs, Downstairs.
Everything must go.
Installation of living room window
We were told to expect energy savings of around 30%. Definitely something to hope for, but we also got a $2,000 credit from our utility for installing high efficiency insulating windows. This credit will keep us from paying our utility bill for 6-7 months.
We also replaced a leaky door that was letting cold winter air in and A/C air out in the summer due to a warped frame from a foundation shift. All is fixed.
We have a great outlook onto our world. New glass is high class.
