The Essentials is Sunrise's low end vinyl window that utilizes a different design and extrusion than what you'll find on the rest of the Sunrise window models. The frame and sash are not going to be as strong, nor will the performance numbers be as good on the Essentials.
In terms of ratings, consumers can expect .30 U-value, .56 VT and .10 air infiltration, which are actually pretty respectable numbers for a low end window. The Essentials comes in limited colors options and is only available as a fixed frame, double hung and horizontal slider option.
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Sunrise dealers and distributors are free to price out the Essentials anyway they see fit (one reason we always suggest getting 3 competing bids). However, the Essentials should run $40 to $50 per square foot for the window itself, depending on the upgrades and options that you opt for. This window price range is for a standard sized opening and normal installation.
-- Window Itself: $40 to $50 fully installed --
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The Sunrise Essentials window, using the Heat Mirror glass package, 0.30 U-factor, 0.33 SHGC, .10 air infiltration, and 0.50 VT. Upgrading to the LoE366 glass package will reduce the performance numbers to a 0.25 U-factor, 0.19 SHGC, .08 air infiltration and a 0.44 VT.
These numbers come from the National Fenestration Ratings Council website.
The Sunrise warranty is a Lifetime Non-Pro Rated warranty that covers the frame and sash, hardware and balances, insulated glass unit and the screens. We like the overall warranty because it's pretty simple to read and understand (some warranties seem to be written simply to confuse the consumer).
The warranty can be transferred to another homeowner, although a warranty transfer registration form must be filled out, along with a processing fee of $50. We urge all consumers to give the warranty a good thorough read before making your purchase.
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Questions on sunrise windows? Ask your questions here on the Essentials, Standard, Verde, Vanguard, and Restorations windows models and series.
In St. Paul, Minnesota - we have bids to replace 36 double-hung windows as follows:
Berkshire Elite - $30,460
Sunrise Essentials - $25,800
Thermal 9500 Park Avenue - $29,924
Having trouble comparing the pros and cons of each window and determining if pricing is reasonable. Any thoughts or advice would be appreciated.
Mark - Homeowner - January, 2020
Hi Mark, this is a tricky one. The Berkshire Elite is a decent mid range window, but that bids seems pricey for a “just decent” window. The Sunrise Essentials is an okay window, but is not near the window that the Sunrise Classic or Standard Sunrise is. This is the window I’d prefer you get. I’d go back to the Sunrise dealer and ask what this upgrade will cost you. If it’s comparable to the Berkshire Elite and Thermal Park Avenue, I’d go with the Sunrise series in a heartbeat.
I don’t feel like I have enough experience with the Thermal 9500 Park Avenue to properly compare these models.
Editor John - January, 2020