MW Windows and Sash Replacements
One of Fenster’s Most Requested Window Sash Products
THE MW WINDOW COMPANY STORY
A LEGACY OF QUALITY
Even though MW Windows is long gone, its legacy of wooden window products lives on in many of our homes today. Started in 1939, MW Windows was one of the first companies in the United States to build the window and frame together and sell it as a single unit. In 2004, Ply Gem bought MW Windows.
A few common reasons that people look for a repair or replacment for MW Windows is general age and water intrustion. If you are experiencing these issues, you aren’t alone!
In Fenster’s 20+ year history, MW window replacement sashes have become one of our most popular products. With MW officially out of business, Fenster Components seeks to offer MW’s former customers a solution to their window needs, whether you are looking for a repair or replacement.
TYPES OF MW WINDOW SASHES
We have replicated multiple versions and styles of the MW Windows line spanning the company’s history. Our MW window replacement sashes are one of our most popular products — making us, by our humble estimation, the nation’s leading supplier of the MW line to homeowners and window professionals across the country. Here are some product features and highlights of our current MW Windows catalog.
All MW sashes were originally wooden, as are our replicas.
1990s – mid 2000s
The Dual Primed Double Hung series from MW (known as the Jefferson series), most likely were installed between 1990 and 2004, though some could date slightly earlier depending on the home builder and region.
If you’re considering replacing or repairing your MW Dual Primed Double Hung windows, our Quicksash universal double-hung kit is the way to go.
1980s – Early 2000s
The MW Primed Casement Sashes, from both the Jefferson and Freedom series, were manufactured primarily between the late 1980s and early 2000s. These wood-framed casement windows were designed to offer a traditional aesthetic with the functionality of modern insulated glass.
Our Dual Primed Casement replacements use a wooden glass stop rather than a vinyl stop for a better, longer-lasting sash.
MW Freedom 600 Vinyl Clad
Late 1980s – Early 2000s
This vinyl-clad casement version was initially aimed at builders and developers. Older models have mitered corners with a flat exterior vinyl glazing bead while newer models moved to welded, mitered corners with a stepped-down detail against the glass and an interior glass stop.
Our MW Freedom 600 series replacement sashes use aluminum cladding as the original vinyl components are no longer available and are designed to fit both older and newer models.
MW Freedom 800 Vinyl Clad
Late 1980s – Early 2000s
This “Pro series” vinyl-clad casement version was initially geared towards higher-end residential applications, offering enhanced aesthetics and performance. PVC vinyl was available in multiple colors from MW
Like our Freedom 600 series, the vinyl cladding has been upgraded to aluminum in our MW Freedom 800 series replacement sashes and the exterior vinyl glazing bead is replaced with an interior wood stop.
Note: The replacement sashes are not exact replicas. Some items have been updated for longevity. Providing a sample sash may be necessary for accurate replication.
Fenster Components is Your Solution for Matching Wood Window Replacements
As we mentioned under the “Wood Windows” section above, Fenster Components works exclusively on wood windows, including MW windows. That’s our area of expertise and where we can create the most value for you.
What you may not realize is that even in unique homes, wood windows often fall into a “production-line” category. That is to say, in many homes, no matter how original or cliché the design is, whether it’s custom-built or manufactured, wood windows don’t typically vary much in how they are built or installed. In fact, the technology is largely the same today as it was fifty years ago. So what does that mean?
Well, it’s actually good news, especially when it comes to window repairs and replacements. It means in most instances, there are industry norms and guides for how to replace or repair your windows. Think of it like a car. The more specific modifications and customizations you install under the hood, the harder it is to find someone who can help fix or replace the hardware once it begins to fail. However, with a typical “off-the-lot” model, there are standard protocols and manufactured parts for replacing the more common hardware. The same is true for windows.
One tricky part for wood windows, however, is that from the time a window is installed to the time it needs to be repaired, many companies either change their product lines or go out of business. That means it can be difficult to find a replacement or repair that matches the other windows in your home. That’s where Fenster comes into the picture.
We specialize in manufacturing and recreating window components that match your original equipment. That means even if your windows are no longer being offered by the manufacturer, or if you only want to replace a few instead of the whole house, you can rest assured that we can provide windows that are an exact match. Not just that, but we can offer alternatives to replacing entire windows that are cheaper and reduce your hassle. However, before we can explain how exactly we do that, we need to talk a little bit more about wood window terminology.
Key Wood Window Terminology You Need to Know
When we talk about wood windows (and windows in general) there are several key terms and components that you will need to know. Knowledge of the following terms will help you understand exactly what we can offer at Fenster, how it works, and why it might be the right solution for you.
- Sash- This is the operable part of the window. This is the part that slides, opens, or moves.
- Casement- The type of window that cranks open
- Double Hung- The type of window that slides up and down
- Awning- Also known as a Hopper, this is the type of window that swings open from the top
- Slider- Also known as a Glider, this is the type of window slides open horizontally
- Stile- The vertical side of a sash frame
- Rail- The horizontal side of a sash frame
- Jambliner- The plastic sidetracks of a double-hung window that the sashes slide up and down in
- Balance- The spring mechanism in the jambliner that holds the sash up
- Casing- The decorative molding or framing around the exterior of a window that covers the space between the framing and the wall.
Now that we have some basic terms defined, we can start explaining what we do in better detail.
What Goes Into Our MW Windows Solutions?
As we mentioned earlier, the reason we work on wood MW windows is because that’s where we can create value for you, the customer. Common issues with wood windows include rotting or cracking of wood as it gets older, allowing moisture to fog the glass window. At Fenster, we provide window repair solutions that simply replace the problematic wood pieces instead of replacing the entire window. As promised, we can finally get into the nitty-gritty about the window replacement alternatives we offer at Fenster Components.
To put it in window terms from above, we offer sash replacements and sash packs. This type of replacement entails the removal of the operable components of the window as well as the replacement of the jamb liners, balances, and sashes (sash frames as well as glass) with newer components. This saves you time and money, by only replacing the parts you need. It also saves the hassle of a full-on window replacement. In some cases, it might even be the only way to ensure that all of your windows match without replacing each one of them. To get a better sense of why this combination of repair and replacement is better, let’s contrast it with the two main replacement solutions on the market today.
Fenster Window Replacement Solutions Vs. Typical Window Replacement Solutions
Let’s take a look at the difference between our replacement solutions and the other replacement solutions, just from a “what” standpoint. We will talk about the “how” of our process and customer service later.
What Fenster Offers:
- Works only on wood windows
- Replaces only the damaged part, not the entire window
- More affordable
- Easy installation
- Matches or replicates original window, including legacy brands
What New Construction Window Replacements Offer:
- Good option for frames that are not structurally sound
- Expensive
- Intensive installation with potential for damage to home
- Can’t always match original windows
What Window Inserts Offer:
- Mainly used for vinyl windows
- Less expensive than new construction windows
- Smaller glass opening
- Can’t match original windows, altering curb appeal significantly
- May not resolve rotting wood issues
- Potentially mis-leading sales tactics
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WINDOW REPLACEMENTS…
What Else Are Window Inserts Called?
Window inserts are also known as pocket windows or frame-in-frame replacements, according to Marvin.
What is the Average Full Frame Window Replacement Cost?
There is no exact window replacement cost estimator, but Modernize does have a decent cost calculator and insights about labor and expenses. They estimate the average range for full frame window replacements is between around $3000 – $13000, depending on the scope of the replacement.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace Window Inserts?
According to some remodeling and contractor estimates, the cost of replacing window inserts can be up to 25% less expensive than full-frame replacements.
What Is The Cheapest Way to Replace a Window?
Spoiler alert, it’s to not replace it. Of course, there are times when you absolutely need to replace it, but if you don’t need full frame replacement, sash kits and replacements (like ours) are available at a fraction of the cost. Our customers tell us they save anywhere from 50-70% compared to full frame replacement, translating into tens of thousands of dollars for whole home solutions.
Are Replacement Windows Worth It?
Window insert replacement cost can vary depending on the kind you are looking to use. When determining if they are worth it, you need to consider what value they are fulfilling for you. If you need to fix a vinyl window and want to do it easily and relatively inexpensively (compared to new construction windows), inserts might be worth it. If you have wood windows that can use a sash kit, or don’t want to shrink the surface area of the glass opening, window inserts might not be worth it.
How Can I Update My Old Windows Without Replacing It?
There are a couple of options. If your window is structurally sound and you just want to provide a face lift, you can paint, clean, stain, or re-case it with relative ease. If you need to update it because it won’t function properly, you might want to look into our sash kits, or potentially window inserts.
THE FENSTER WAY
At Fenster Components, we know you work hard to make your home a place of peace and relaxation. That’s why when it comes to window repairs we make it easy and affordable. We are here to educate and empower you to take control of your home’s windows. How do we do that? First of all, our products are made here in the U.S.A. with quality built to last. Our sales process is tailored to build confidence in the novice consumer.
Our quote request forms spell out technical terms in an easy-to-understand format and rest assured, our experts are there every step of the way to guarantee you are getting exactly what you need. What’s more, we will take care of white glove delivery to your door so you can rest easy knowing your investment is in good hands.
Whether it’s installation videos for the DIY community or vetted independent contractors in your area, we will make sure you get a trusted pair of hands to help! When you need affordable solutions from experts you can trust, you need Fenster. Talk with an expert or find the right solution for you.