You need a new sash, not a new window: This statement is the justification of why Fenster Components exists. This is why we got into the window business in the first place.
The practicality of sash replacement is a superior method to window repair with all the benefits of a full replacement window.
We’ve created a whole new approach to window replacement that is, by far, less expensive, less mess, and less hassle than the traditional idea of window replacement. Just so we’re on the same page, let’s dig into what the “act” of window replacement really is and how the Fenster process is better.
Traditional Wood Window Replacement
This process has to start with an apples-to-apples comparison of what is being replaced. I’ll be talking specifically about an aluminum-clad casement wood window in a typical mid-range custom home. For this example, let’s look at a home of $300,000-700,000 in value with roughly 40 windows in it, and let’s assume a white plastic vinyl insert window is not an option for this home.
Traditional window replacement would require the entire frame of the window to be cut out from the wall. This can have a significant effect on the surrounding surfaces. Interior trim has to be removed, damaging drywall and paint. Exterior trim will also have to be removed, and if you have brick, stone or stucco, the window frame literally has to be cut out of the opening.
And all exterior treatment has the potential to create water infiltration issues when sealing the new window unit. So, now you have an entirely new frame that has to be secured into the opening, flashed, and sealed properly.
My argument to this process is, ultimately: Can you fully get the proper attachment and watertight seal with a replacement window long after the home was built originally?
Fenster Sash Replacement
Our process removes the entire frame seal question from the equation.
The frame is never removed or altered in any way. The surrounding surfaces are not disturbed in any way. The sash panel is simply removed from the existing frame.
For operating sashes, the sash is pulled from its hinges and operating hardware. The original hardware is then transferred to the new replacement sash and the sash is reset in the frame just as the original was.
For stationary sashes, there are two common mounting methods. Some windows have exposed screws through the interior jamb or through the edge of the sash itself. The sash is simply removed by backing out these screws. The second method is to have brackets hidden behind the interior trim around the sash called the screen stop.
Why Replace Just the Sash and Not the Whole Window?
Let’s first examine what is wrong with the windows and why you want to replace them.
Now, if you’re someone who just wants new stuff for the sake of having new stuff, then you can stop reading. For those of you a little more practical or without an endless budget, this is an important read. Ask yourself these questions before you rip out your entire window.
- Is there anything wrong with the frame? The answer is probably no, and there probably never will be. Then why tear it out?
- Poor seal? The weatherstripping can be replaced and even upgraded without tearing out the entire frame.
- Foggy glass? This is specific to the sash itself. Replacing just the sash solves this issue without a full tear-out.
- Rotten wood? An aluminum-clad window traditionally has an all-metal frame with a cladded wood sash. If the frame has no potential to rot, but the sash does, why not replace only the part of the window that needs to be replaced?
- Poor efficiency? Upgrading efficiency is probably the most common reason for replacement. Here’s what I’ll say to that. The materials, construction and assembly techniques for clad wood windows have changed little to none over the past 40 years.
By design, an aluminum-clad window frame of today looks no different than a frame from the 80s. The technology is in the glass and nothing else. The bells and whistles like trendy hardware, blinds in the glass, roll-up screens, and fancy colors are all great, but do nothing to improve efficiency: It’s about the glass. There’s the reason to tear them all out, right? Wrong. Fenster sashes come with the same Energy Star-approved glass units that any major window manufacturer can offer you.
Ready to get started? Great! Check out our sash replacement line and gather all the details you need about ordering a sash window replacement for your home here. Then contact us today!
Norco sash pack tilt windows installed around 1990. Used a vinyl jamb liner. Square sash ends. Any reason to be concerned your kits will not work? The width of the liners is 3.5 inches. They attach to clips. Thanks
Steve, Technically yes. That would require a bracket mounted liner. My concern is there seems to be some odd sizing that comes along with other sash packs. While our kits are sized to fit the original opening, we would not be able to coach you on correct sizing to fit someone else’s after-market sash pack. BUT, that is irrelevant at this point. As of 5/26/20 as I type this, we are currently not producing any jambliner products. Our supply chain has been decimated by the pandemic. We have no prospects of a new supplier at this time. Production is suspended indefinitely.
Is there any hope that you’ll resume production? Are you seeking out new suppliers?
We certainly hope so Mark. Two major product lines are in jeopardy if we don’t.
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I have some norco windows in my house built in 1990. Years ago I ordered some replacement sashes on fixed windows using a number in the inside frame i think. Is this still possible? I think the outside is either clay or sand. The actual glass is about 14.5 by 41.25. Cannot read the stamping now but i also have a new replacement that I got about 10 years ago that I have not put in yet. I need 3 more. I wonder if you still have my name in your database. Thanks.
Hey Chris, I’m sure we can help you. “Years ago” might be an eternity for us. We are changing so rapidly to meet the growing need for our products, our systems have changed nearly from year to year. I recommend filling out a new quote request form with your info and order specs and we’ll get you into our current system.
I need 20 replacement sash for the clad casement windows by Caradco. can you help me?
Of course Carlos. Have you tried to order them from our website?
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When I built my home in 1985 we had custom wood windows made by Pozzi. I need to replace the removable grille on one of the windows. The measurements for the inside glass is 23″ high, 42″ wide. Do you have them or ? Thanks,
Cheryl, I’m sorry we don’t make grills. We have a supplier for those. http://www.bigbluewindow.com
I have Caradco windows double hung with wooden inserts. House is 22 years old. Are vinyl inserts available to replace fragile wooden inserts?
I haven’t seen anything like that. Our supplier only carries wood or aluminum.
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Will my old inside MW grilles fit the new Fenster QSR MW200 replacement casement sashes? Also, when the new casement sashes are delivered, will the delivery personnel leave them on my driveway or put them in a designated covered area (my garage)?
Most likely no. Most of our models have gone through some degree of alteration to adapt the original profile to fit our cladding. The “glass” opening is most commonly affected by +/- 1/8″ causing the grill to no longer fit. We can supply new grills on larger QTY orders, but do not guarantee a match to the original. For small QTY orders needing to match an existing grill, we recommend http://www.bigbluewindow.com. As far as delivery, our driver will leave the windows where ever you specify. You can coordinate that with our office staff when you are notified of delivery.
Ryan, I am looking for a double hung upper replacement sash for a Windsor Legend (Cellular PVC) Col with 7/8” & 1 1/4” CPVC Ogee. Sash size is 30”x36” 4 lite with clear glass.
Steven, We don’t do anything in cPVC. You might have to go to Windsor for that.
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I have three Norco D-series clad casement sashes that are foggy. Can I order just the replacement glass?
Rich, We don’t sell just the glass. You can have a local residential glass company in your area do that for you. Replacement glass is not brand specific to the kind of window you have.
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Ryan,
Our house was built in 1993. The builder installed Caradco double hung windows. I had to do quite a bit of research to discover that they were Caradco windows but was pleasantly surprised when I found out that the double hung sash replacement kits were an option. I have a total of 14 windows of various sizes that I’m wanting to purchase the kits for. Every one of the windows and vinyl jamb liners were sized in accordance with the chart that I found on your website. I verified that the jamb liners came out just the way they were explained on one of your videos. Is it possible to meet a representative at your Nobblesville facility as I have others concerns that I would like discuss in person?
Hi Steve, You sure can. I would strongly recommend making an appointment with Cheryl our sales manager. We keep part time hours in the winter months and we’re not always there 9-5, M-F. Best way to reach her is via email, sales@fensterusa.com.
Can you build a replacement sash for a Malta (27 year old) window? Dimensions 26 1/4 ” W. x 31 ” H. Vinyl clad wood window.
Lee, I’m sure we can. There are several different models of Malta we can do; 3 vinyl clad models at that. If you follow the quote request form and submit the requested photos, we will identify the model for you and get you what you need. https://fenstersusa.com