CO asked:


My house was built in 1928 and has the original wood double hung, single lite, windows in front. The rear windows are not visible from the street and had the sashes removed and replaced with a kind of insert made from aluminum. Probably done in the 70s or 80s and the orignal window frames these are sitting in still look good. We’ve been restoring the front original windows and wanted something to match in the back to replaced the aluminum inserts. I originally bought some Anderson Woodwright 400 series replacement window inserts for the rear windows. After installing the first one I instantly didn’t like it because you could tell it was an insert. The wood to glass ratio was way off and drastically reduced the visible glass. I sold these to my neighbor who didn’t mind that look. So now I’m considering a sash replacement kit like Jeld Wen’s Zap Pack sash kits. I like how narrow the jam liners are. I think this might give me a real close to original look so they will match my front windows inside and out. But I haven’t seen these in person yet and am still trying to locate a dealer nearby. Who else makes sash kits like these? I’m interested in a good fit and finish with a wood interior and clad exterior. And I’m more interested in the proper look for the house than an airtight fit. I’ve seen some complaints about this type of kit not being as air tight as some would expect. My house is 80 years old and I’m realistic about what to expect in regards to being air tight. I’m more interested in the benefits of the double pain Low E glass. Any thoughts on this type of kit and who makes them? I see Marvin has a similar kit but the jam liners look much thicker.

Thanks

anderson window parts