Doors and Windows - Purchasing windows for new construction

Does anyone know what the cost difference is for preprimed Anderson windows and is it worth it? Also, should I get the jamb extensions from Anderson or make our own onsite?

If your going to get Anderson windows, then get their jamb extensions. End of story. I have to install 2 rather large anderson Windows that the owner bought, and did not get their jamb extensions. We will have to build them. This will not be fun. Good Luck

I can only comment on the extension jambs- it's nice to get them from Andersen, only because it saves you the trouble of making them yourself. Their jamb extensions come pre drilled with pocket screws, and they also have a tongue that fits into a groove on the window. This gives you a nice even reveal where the extension jamb meets the window.

If you have to, making an extension jamb is not a big deal (if you have the tools), as the tongue and groove are not absolutely necessary. A simple, straight jamb and some pocket screws (Kreg pocket hole jig) are all that is needed. You just need to make the jamb the right size so that you still have an even reveal where the extension jamb meets the window.

Making an extension jamb for an Arched or Circle Top window, now that might be a different matter. You'd definately want Andersen's extension jambs for that.

I concur with getting the jamb extensions from the manufacturer, no matter who they are. I just installed Jeld Wen's in a couple of porch enclosures, and it was truly nice not to have to make them. The customer liked it too, since my labor for building them was more than the extra cost of the extensions from the manufacturer. Make sure you tell them the correct size to coordinate with your wall size (ie. 2x4 or 2x6)