Because of your temperatures, I wouldn't be able to give you better advice than the locals- experience builders and trusted dealers, on what works best and has the best value.

I'd ask around up there.

http://www.renewalwindows.com/Replacement-Windows-and-Doors/60980/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=cleveland&storeNumber=93&gclid=CNu43cvFgbICFac7MgodERoATA

The only reason I brought this up was there was an ad for them here.

But there should several replacement window companies serving Alaska.

that vinyl is the only way to go and they can be very energy efficient. You can get them in many colors, and as you probably will not get one to exactly match your house, try going with a dark brown that will not stand out with the house.

The amount of efficiency will be determined mostly by the price you are willing or able to pay. Just make sure that you go with a reliable brand name....I say this because I didn't, and they suck, the company that installed them is out of business, and I have no way of getting any remedy for problems.

If money isn't a concern, triple pane would be the way to go. The extra cost won't be recovered by the savings in heating but people say they can tell the difference from standing inside near a triple pane window compared to a double pane window. An added measure of comfort but at a steep price.

As a general rule, the fewer the windows the better as no window can be as good as a solid wall in regards to insulation value.

Vinyl is cheaper but I've always heard that wood is better. Vinyl is also pretty much maintenance free unlike the wood framed windows which you will have to paint at some point.

Living where you do, you may want to consider adding good quality storm windows. Either exterior or interior.

Here's a link to a PDF file that gives information on windows for use in Alaska:

http://www.efficientwindows.org/factsheets/Alaska.pdf

Last edited Mon Oct 21, 2013, 07:05 AM - Edit history (1)

If you want the best energy-efficient windows, get ones with the Energy Star® label. You’ll get a tax credit if you purchase these and also enjoy year round benefits as you save on energy bills. My replacement windows are fitted with Comfort 365 Glass. Check out the U-factor which determines energy efficiency. U-factor values can range from 0.25 to 1.25. The lower the U-factor the better the insulation.
You can paint vinyl siding – I don’t think you’ll have a problem. You’ll find several YouTube videos that show you how to do this.