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Can someone comment on their experiences with sash replacement kits. These are the kits which replace the sash and sash tracks in older windows. They allow the change without having to remove the inside or outside trim, only the window stop. I know the window frame must be in good shape (no rot and good plumb and level).
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I've used the kits from Marvin. I love 'em. You do have to measure careful & have a frame reasonanly square & in good shape. with practice you can do one in about 45 minutes.
*We considered the Marvin "Tilt Packs" (I think they're called). Uncertain of the condition & alignment of the frame, we decided to get the entire when we found out it was only another $30. The BIG difference in cost between the Tilt Pack and a full window replacement is labor -- a few hours per window. Since I was DIY, it didn't matter, plus I was able to get a significantly wider window (about +4", very noticeable) because of the space liberated from the old counterweight pockets. Those pockets leaked air like crazy and removing them allowed me to do a respectable sealing job. Also the old sill was maybe 3°, the new one about 7° for better drainage. And deteriorating lead paint everywhere.I really like the quality of Marvin wood sash with real muntins. The Tilt Packs sound great, especially if you have a lot of windows and labor cost/time is a problem. Also, there are much cheaper windows out there than Marvin.
*i have to admit, I haven't used the marvin tilt pacs for some time. The last time I priced them it was consideribly higher. i do use the Norco windows quite a bit & have been waiting for an oppertunity to try their version out.Besides the labor, the big advantage to sash replacement kits is not having to disturb the trim. Most of the surfaces are left intact, making the loss of unreplaceable trim a non issue
*I bought one of the razor-sharp Japanese pry bars for removing trim. If I would stop cutting myself with it, i could give you a better idea of its effectiveness on trim. In our case, the extra light was a big bonus in a heavily shaded house. (And the trim was junk colonial.)
*I agree with Rob that it's nice not to have to mess with any interior or exterior trim. Make sure the sill is in good shape before commmitting to sash replacements, however.We have done dozens and dozens of Caradco "Zap-Pak" replacement sashes, and are totally pleased with the product. Plan to use their "simulated divided lite" version in our own home when time permits.Good luck, Steve
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I'm all set to buy replacement sashes for all of the windows on my home. I've been looking at Weathershield's replacement windows. They look OK to me with one exception... I really hate the look of the vinyl jamb liner. Plus, it looks very delicate.. I seriously question how well this thin, intricate, delicate plastic extrusion will survive over years of service. I haven;t found any dealers of Marvin or Pella replacemnt windows in my area. Neither company has returned my emails.. which is really making me less of a fan of both companies. SInce those companies don't seam to care about selling their products.. perhaps their customers can help them out. Can anybody tell me what the jamb liners (or tracks) are made out of on Pella's and Marvin's replacement windows? (I'm all set to pay more... if I can get away from that awefull vinyl.)
Thanks everyone for any help you can offer. (And if anybody knows anybody at Pella or Marvin.. please ask them why they even bother having Web Sites. I'll buy their windows.. but I think I hate both companies.) Thanks again!
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Any lumberyard should be able to order your windows for you. I have dealt with an exclusive Marvin dealer here, 'cause their prices are a bit lower and delivery is inexpensive.
The jamb thingamajig on the Marvins (the track?) is a plastic, maybe vinyl, but I wouldn't describe it as delicate. Quite airtight and inobtrusive too. It should wear well and anyway would be trivial to replace. (Marvin sash pop out and rotate down for cleaning or removal.)
I've seen the Pella & Marvin web sites, they're not the best. I think Marvin is making a lot of money -- they're king in New England I hear -- so maybe they've forgotten about customer service. The dozen windows I've ordered, though, had no manufacturing defects. Very nice woodworking.
*David, The marvin & other manufatureres use a vinyl jamb liner. They are now quite durable although the ones made in the 70's are begining to need replaced. Look into Norco. To the best of my knowledge, Pella dosen't offer one.
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Can someone comment on their experiences with sash replacement kits. These are the kits which replace the sash and sash tracks in older windows. They allow the change without having to remove the inside or outside trim, only the window stop. I know the window frame must be in good shape (no rot and good plumb and level).