Yeah, specs can be a bit misleading sometimes... Did you factor in window placement and shading? I've seen great windows underperform just because they're catching direct sun all afternoon. Might be worth checking out.
Specs can definitely be misleading, but I'm not sure shading and placement alone explain everything. Have you considered installation quality? I've seen windows with top-notch ratings perform poorly just because the installers cut corners on sealing or insulation around the frames. Might be worth double-checking how well they're actually installed... sometimes it's the little details that make all the difference.
Totally agree that installation can be a sneaky culprit. A friend of mine had these super fancy triple-pane windows installed last year—top-of-the-line specs, great reviews, the whole nine yards—but she kept complaining about drafts and cold spots. Turns out the installers rushed through sealing around the frames, leaving tiny gaps that made a huge difference. Once she got someone else to redo the insulation and sealing properly, it was like night and day.
So yeah, specs matter, but they're definitely not everything. If you're still scratching your head over why your windows aren't performing as expected, I'd seriously consider having someone reputable take a closer look at the installation details. Could save you a lot of frustration (and maybe even some money on heating bills).
Had a similar thing happen when we replaced our windows a few years back. Went with mid-range double-pane, nothing fancy, but the installer was meticulous about sealing and insulating around the frames. Honestly, they've performed way better than my neighbor's pricier windows because his installers cut corners. Specs are helpful, sure, but I'm convinced installation quality makes or breaks the deal. Learned that one the hard way with our patio door... never again.
Totally get your point about installation quality, but do you think mid-range windows always hold up long-term? Had a similar experience myself—went budget-friendly with careful installation, and yeah, they were great at first. But after about five years, started noticing drafts again. Makes me wonder if specs might matter more down the road, even if installation is spot-on. Maybe there's a sweet spot between specs and install quality...?
