Project: Patio Door Window Replacement

Rick Groulx and I have been having some discussions regarding patio door replacements and I thought I'd pass on the current state of affairs. Our building (#3) was one of the first built. We have noticed that our patio doors (the door walls leading to the beach) have broken vapor seals which result in condensation forming between the panes. Rick set about researching fix or replacement options and here's what he found:

• According to the master deed, maintenance of windows is the responsibility of the owner and not the association. The master deed further states that repairs or replacements must match the outward appearance of the rest of the units; i.e., in this case the outside framing must be white in color.
  
• The cost to replace a single panel in any patio door is going to cost about $400. Regardless of the make or company doing the replacement the costs will be similar and the guarentee is limited. Because of the wind and weather we should expect broken seals in each of the panes before too many more years.
  
• There are various brands of replacement doors available. Rick visited the Oscoda Home Center, Northeastern Window and Door, and others in Au Gres, Omer, Standish, ...
  
• After considering the available brand options Rick decided to go with an Anderson replacement (model PS510) from Northeastern Window and Door, Harrisville. Northeastern was recommended by several residents, Anderson offers an extended guarantee, and the full installation price was comparable to downstate pricing (about $1,300 for the upstairs patio door -- complete install).
  

If you're interested in the details and the quote Rick received, drop either of us a note.