FAQs
Having questions about window replacement is normal. The Sash Guy is here to help.
FREQUENTLY ASKED. EASILY ANSWERED.
A Message from “The Sash Guy”
After 20 years in business, I have answered a LOT of questions about window repair and replacement. Below are the answers to my most commonly asked questions. If any of these answers your question, please consider this my response.
- If you can’t find something on the website, it’s probably not there. The only products we offer are explained in great detail on either of the featured product page and shown on the home page.
- We do not sell individual sash parts. Again, not found anywhere on the site. That also includes screens, glass, and brand-specific double-hung sash.
- If you don’t see the brand of window you are looking for on the sash model catalog, you are correct, we don’t make it. If you are wondering what brands of windows we DO make, check out our sash model catalog.
- We do not quote jamb liners or hardware. Those products are purchased directly off the website from our e-store. ONLY those products displayed on their respective pages are what we have available. There’s no need to ask about types of jamb liners or hardware not shown on those pages.
- If you’re wondering just how to get started, check out the easy 4-step process directly under the homepage video and the video, “How to request a quote” directly below the easy 4-step process.
Please, let me know if you have additional questions and I’ll be happy to help.
– Ryan, The Sash Guy
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What’s a window sash?
A: A window sash, most easily understood, is the part that houses the glass and opens. Casement windows sashes crank open while double-hung window sashes slide up and down.
Q: Can I repair my window or do I have to do an entire replacement?
A: The most commonly damaged part of a wood window is the exterior sash. It takes the elements and overtime it degrades. That’s where Fenster comes in. We specialize in replacement sashes for all kinds of windows. Check out our sash model catalog for options.
Q: When should I replace my sash?
A: If you are leaking air or water from a window, check to see if the sash or the outside frame is at fault. If your windows are fogged up between the panes of glass, this is likely a sign that the seal has failed. This is prime example of when to replace the sash not replace the whole window.
Q: Are window sash replacements less expensive than a full window replacement project?
A: Sash replacements are ABSOLUTELY less costly than a window replacement project. Once you factor in length of project, the cost of contractors and installation on top of the windows themselves, you can easily pay 3 to 4 times more than the cost of a replacement sash.
Q: Can I paint my windows?
A: You can paint your sash. Fenster sashes come either primed for paint or natural for stain. Outside color options are available in the cladding colors listed on the product’s page. If you’re looking for tips on how to DIY paint your existing sashes to match, check out this helpful blog.
Q: Are Fenster products exact copies of the original brand’s window?
A: All Fenster products are after-market replications of the original. While our products are designed to closely resemble the original, they are not the original brand’s product. Having no association with the original manufacturer, we cannot respond to warranty claims or brand-specific inquiries.
Q: What is the warranty on Fenster sashes?
A: Fenster replica clad wood sashes and Fenster clad wood Quiksash double hung kits are warranted to be free from defect, specifically failure due to wood rot and/or glass IGU seal failure for a period of ten (10) years from the original shipment date from our factory. Fenster painted “non-clad” wood sashes have a one (1) year warranty from wood rot from the original shipment date from our factory. For full details see our factory warranty page.
Q: Does Fenster offer installation?
A: Yes, we do! No need to find a contractor in your area to install your new sashes. Fenster has factory-trained install technicians who can do the work for you. We do not send subcontractors out. Your windows can be delivered and installed on the same day, or you can request a pre-finishing delivery for an extra fee. Find out more on our installation page.
Q: Do you sell weather stripping?
A: We do not.
NEED MORE HELP?
Watch these helpful videos for a step-by-step measuring guide.
HOW TO MEASURE
View pro-tips and illustrative steps to getting the best measurements.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Confused or can’t find what you need? We have some pointers that can help.
HOW TO BUY
We are unable to process your order without the use of our catalog & order forms.
A NOTE ABOUT MEASURING YOUR SASH
Remember a few things when you’re measuring:
- We accept edge-to-edge, net sash sizes only.
- DO NOT measure the glass opening, include weatherstripping in your edge measurement, or provide the frame size. Just the wood around the glass.
- Take all measurements from the exterior side of the sash.
- DO NOT adjust your measurements for fit. Our standard practice is to undersize sashes by 1/16″ or more depending on our installation experience.
- Heights of double-hung sashes are NOT required. Our sashes are designed to fit the opening, NOT match your original sash heights.
- For some models, we may ask for a sash “thickness”. This is the dimension from the inside face to the outside face, NOT the width of the cladding face.
- Wood materials can swell and bow over time, so take measurements in a few places and use the most common measurement.
