Windows and Doors

Man there is a lot of windows and doors out there to look at! It always thought Pella and Anderson were the front runners. Now, with the development of new technology, everyone seems to be a front runner. The most important rule is this: What do you need? 

I don't speak carpenter lingo, but I know what I need. Two pane, Low-E, vinyl windows. The house is on the water - lots of moisture so clad-anything is asking for trouble. Now, we are looking for price and style ... this needs to not take forever. Lowes has Pella and HomeDepot has Anderson. We are going to a 'yard' in Manassas, VA that carries 2 other brands (so I can talk about them later).

Pella and Anderson seem the same to me; both windows are good windows. A little difference here and there but they offer the same styles. What peeves me more than anything is the "custom" issue. Getting a removable regular looking grid is standard; but with some companies, change the look of that grid and you have entered the "custom zone". Seriously? Gimme a break. It's right then that the companies start to look greedy. Here is my line of thinking:

The window to the LEFT is considered "standard"; the window to the RIGHT is considered "custom" - the customization seems to be in the grids alone. The grids are removable so I can't think there is an engineering overhaul in design of the window casing. If the grids are removed, both window panes are wide open and blank. Would the window companies sell a window that was structurally unsound when the removable grids are removed? Ahhh Duhhhh

I think in "Man World" the biggest loudest rooster is taken at his word without question - well, this hen is making a list. Not to be uncooperative - to educate myself in this foreign Man-World I find myself navigating - that's all.