Question on Andersen tilting in

18 years ago

Hi,

Am looking to replace some old windows in my home. Several contractors told me they use Andersen windows so went to Home Depot to look at them.

My present windows fail because a little piece of plastic retains the spring mechanism. Opening the windows more than half way breaks that plastic and then the window won't stay open without help. These are old single pane with storm windows that have come apart.

Andersen windows seem to use a different system to tilt in than the rest of the market. They don't use the obvious buttons at the top of the sash. They have these plastic pieces that you slide down over the top of the ends of the sash to help the locking mechanisms to withdraw when you then pull on the window. This bothers me that this functions depends upon these little plastic pieces. If you don't slide these plastic pieces back up, you could break them when you try to open the upper sash or close the lower sash.

If I have some people cleaning my home, I would either prohibit them from opening the windows or teach them how and hope they don't break these plastic pieces.

Am I being paranoid about Andersen plastic?

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Comments (2)

OhioWindoze
18 years ago
Alanc~

I have installed windows with these "wash assists" and yes they are simply pvc but these tend to be very durable. Andersen has used them for years and has had little or no trouble with them. They are replaceable and easy to do if one should be snapped or broken.

A big advantage of these are that the the windows only tilt "ON DEMAND". They will not accidentally tilt in with little fingers playing around or by not having the windows completely closed and a strong breeze could inadvertantly push the sash forward and could lead to injury. For the few times of the year that one would tilt the window (perhaps 4-6 times) it seems a better trade off than having the shoulder pad type tilt buttons mounted on the top of the sashes. Quite frankly these tend to be dust-catchers and an obvious eye sore.
bosque1
18 years ago
With the 400 series tilt wash units you can also press the sides of the liners in with the sides of your hand while holding the sash to release it without using the assists. Its the same when tilting the upper sash. The assists have to be placed back up out of the way in order to tilt the upper. Then you have to press the liners in with your hand anyway.
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