Hey everyone! I'm looking for some contractor insights on sliding doors as I'm planning to replace a 20+ year old vinyl one in my vacation home. I've heard good things about the Marvin Essential line, but I'm also contemplating whether that's the best choice based on its reputation. I already have Marvin Ultimate in my main home, but I want to hear opinions on the other options as well! Here's a bit more info:
**Basic Info:**
- Minimal overhang and it gets really sunny during summer.
- The rough opening is standard at 72 x 96.
- The house is rarely occupied, mainly used for holiday pool parties, so the sliding door will see a lot of traffic. I also need a screen door that's robust enough for kids and pets.
- I'm fine with a white door.
**Requirements:**
- Low maintenance, no painting required.
- Excellent warranty that's user-friendly.
- Durable enough to withstand frequent use by kids.
**Doors I'm Considering (priority order):**
1. Marvin Essential (+$200 from Milgard Tuscany and Andersen 100)
2. Andersen 100
3. Milgard Tuscany
4. Milgard Ultra (+$1000 from Andersen 100)
**Why I'm Struggling to Choose:**
The showrooms don't have all the doors, like Marvin Essential, and I've been getting mixed signals from salespeople and various sources on which door is best. Some say it all comes down to personal preference! Any insights would be greatly appreciated, thanks!
1 Answer
Hey! As a Marvin sales guy, I recommend checking out the Marvin Elevate instead of the Essential. It's built with a wood interior and offers better overall quality. If possible, steer clear of plastic doors, they don't hold up as well. Marvin actually doesn’t make those types of doors, so you’d want to go with their better lines.
Thanks for the tip! Just to clarify, is Marvin actually outsourcing those, or do they just not manufacture that line? If my budget is tight and I’m stuck with vinyl or fiberglass, should I still lean towards Marvin Essential over Andersen 100 or Milgard Tuscany? I mean, they have to be better than my current door, right?