Mathews Brothers Windows Review: Are They Right For You?

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Mathews Brothers Windows Review: Are They Right For You?

Hey there, window shoppers! Considering a window upgrade and Mathews Brothers Windows have caught your eye? You're in the right place! We're diving deep into the world of Mathews Brothers Windows, giving you the lowdown on everything from their construction and performance to pricing and customer satisfaction. The goal is to help you decide if these windows are the perfect fit for your home. Let's get started, guys!

What are Mathews Brothers Windows?

Okay, so first things first: who are Mathews Brothers Windows? They're a Maine-based window manufacturer with a long history, dating back to 1948. That's a lot of experience! They've built a reputation for crafting both residential and commercial windows, with a focus on offering a variety of styles and features to meet different needs and budgets. Their windows are mainly known for their energy efficiency and durability, but they also offer a range of aesthetic options to suit various architectural styles. They are committed to providing top-quality windows, with a strong focus on energy efficiency and durability. Mathews Brothers Windows offers a comprehensive selection of windows. Their product lineup includes a wide range of styles, from traditional double-hung and casement windows to sliding and awning windows. This diversity allows homeowners and builders to find windows that perfectly match their architectural preferences and functional requirements. Their windows are designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions common in the Northeast, where they are manufactured. They incorporate high-quality materials and construction techniques, ensuring that their windows can endure the test of time while also providing optimal performance. This commitment to durability often translates into lower maintenance costs and greater longevity for the windows, making them a wise investment for homeowners. Their windows are known for their exceptional energy efficiency, which is achieved through advanced technologies and design features. Mathews Brothers Windows use high-performance glass packages, such as double-pane or triple-pane glass, which significantly reduce heat transfer and improve insulation. They often incorporate low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings that reflect infrared light, further enhancing energy efficiency. Additionally, their frames and sashes are designed with tight seals and weatherstripping to minimize air leakage, preventing drafts and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature. This level of energy efficiency can lead to significant savings on heating and cooling costs over the lifetime of the windows, as well as an improvement in the overall comfort of the home. These windows also offer a variety of customization options, allowing homeowners to personalize their windows to complement their home's style. They offer a range of frame materials, including wood, vinyl, and composite, each with its own set of advantages. Wood frames provide a classic look and can be painted or stained to match the home's aesthetic, while vinyl and composite frames are known for their low maintenance and resistance to the elements. Customers can also choose from a variety of colors, finishes, and hardware options to create windows that perfectly reflect their unique tastes. These customization options provide flexibility and allow homeowners to create windows that enhance both the functionality and curb appeal of their homes.

Window Styles and Options

Mathews Brothers Windows offer a pretty diverse range of window styles, so you've got options, folks! Let's break down some of the popular choices:

  • Double-Hung Windows: These are classic! Both the top and bottom sashes slide up and down, making them super easy to clean and ventilate. Great for traditional homes.
  • Casement Windows: These windows crank open outward, offering great ventilation and a clear view. They're often very energy-efficient because they seal tightly when closed.
  • Awning Windows: Hinged at the top and opening outward, awning windows are perfect for rainy climates. They let you ventilate even when it's drizzling.
  • Slider Windows: These windows slide horizontally, making them a space-saving option. They're a good choice for modern homes.
  • Specialty Windows: Mathews Brothers also offers custom shapes and sizes, including bay windows, bow windows, and other unique designs to fit specific architectural needs.

They offer various materials for their frames and sashes, including:

  • Wood: Classic look! You can paint or stain them to match your home's style. Keep in mind, wood requires more maintenance.
  • Vinyl: Low-maintenance and budget-friendly. Vinyl is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to the elements.
  • Composite: A blend of materials that offers excellent performance and durability, often with a wood-like appearance.

As for the glass, you can often customize it with options like Low-E coatings (for energy efficiency), different tints, and even tempered glass for added safety. You can also pick from various grid patterns and hardware finishes to get the exact look you want.

Performance and Energy Efficiency

When it comes to performance, Mathews Brothers Windows are designed with energy efficiency in mind. This is a big deal, because it can seriously affect your energy bills and the comfort of your home. They use technologies like Low-E coatings, which reflect heat and reduce heat transfer, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Plus, they often incorporate multiple panes of glass (double-pane or even triple-pane) and gas fills (like argon or krypton) between the panes for added insulation. The frames are also designed to minimize air leakage, which helps prevent drafts and keeps your home at a consistent temperature.

  • Energy Star Certification: Keep an eye out for Energy Star certification. It means the windows meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. This can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Energy Star rated products are designed to meet specific energy efficiency guidelines, which can lead to significant savings on energy bills. You can often find windows with impressive U-factors (a measure of heat loss) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficients (SHGC, which measures how well a window blocks heat from the sun).
  • U-Factor: This measures how well a window prevents heat from escaping. The lower the U-factor, the better the insulation.
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): This measures how well a window blocks heat from the sun. A lower SHGC means less solar heat enters your home, which is great for keeping your home cool in the summer.

Pricing and Warranty

Alright, let's talk numbers, because, let's face it, that's important, right? The price of Mathews Brothers Windows can vary a lot depending on the style, size, materials, and any custom options you choose. Generally, you can expect to find them in the mid-range to higher-end price category, reflecting their quality construction and energy-efficient features. Always get a detailed quote that includes installation costs, as that can be a significant part of the overall expense. Shop around! Get quotes from multiple dealers or installers to compare prices and ensure you're getting a fair deal.

  • Warranty: Mathews Brothers Windows typically come with a warranty to protect your investment. The length and details of the warranty can vary, so make sure you understand what's covered (and what's not!) before you buy. Look for warranties that cover things like the frame, glass, and hardware. A good warranty provides peace of mind and shows that the manufacturer stands behind their product. Read the fine print! Some warranties may have exclusions or limitations, so take the time to understand the terms and conditions. Proper installation is critical! Most warranties will require that the windows are installed by a professional to be valid.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

What are other people saying about Mathews Brothers Windows? Customer reviews and the company's overall reputation are super important when making a decision. You can often find reviews on websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), as well as on various home improvement websites and forums. Here's what to look for:

  • Positive Reviews: Look for comments about the windows' quality, energy efficiency, and overall performance. Do customers seem happy with the installation process and the company's customer service?
  • Negative Reviews: Pay attention to any recurring issues or complaints. Are there complaints about the quality of the windows, the installation, or the customer service? Don't let a few negative reviews scare you off, but take note if you see a pattern.
  • BBB Rating: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for the company's rating and any complaints filed against them. A good rating indicates that the company generally resolves customer issues effectively.
  • Professional Installation: Proper installation is crucial for window performance. Poor installation can lead to leaks, drafts, and even void your warranty.

Pros and Cons of Mathews Brothers Windows

Let's wrap things up with a quick summary of the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Energy Efficiency: Known for energy-efficient designs and features, helping to lower energy bills.
  • Durability: Built to last, with quality materials and construction.
  • Variety of Styles: Offer a range of styles to suit different architectural preferences.
  • Customization Options: Plenty of choices for materials, colors, and hardware.
  • Reputation: Long-standing company with a history of quality and customer satisfaction.

Cons:

  • Price: Can be pricier than some other brands, though the quality often justifies the cost.
  • Availability: Limited availability compared to some national brands, particularly if you don't live in their service area.
  • Installation: Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure proper performance and warranty coverage.

Are Mathews Brothers Windows the Right Choice for You?

So, are Mathews Brothers Windows the right choice for your home? Ultimately, that depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. If you're looking for energy-efficient, durable windows and are willing to invest a bit more upfront, they're definitely worth considering. If you live in an area where they offer installation and service, that's a plus! Weigh the pros and cons, compare them to other brands, and get quotes to make an informed decision. Good luck with your window project, guys! I hope this helps you make the right choice! Make sure to take the time to do some research and read customer reviews to get a better sense of the overall experience. Don't rush the process! Consider all of your options and find the perfect windows for your home. Remember to factor in the long-term benefits of energy efficiency and durability, which can save you money and headaches down the road.