Hello:
I have searched the forum, but cannot seem to find an answer. I have a double hung window which tilts in for cleaning. These are standard builder grade windows. In any case, here is my problem. On the lower sash, there are two "thumb latches", which are spring loaded, and when moved toward the center of the sash, allow the window to pivot into the room. These "thumb latches" are made of plastic, and on one of my windows, they are both broken. The triangular shaped part that would slide up and down in the track (when the window is closed) has broken from the thumb latch. These windows have phillips head screws on the side of the sash just below the triangular spring loaded protrusion. If I remove the screws on either side of the window, will I be able to remove the entire spring loaded thumb latch? If so, can I buy replacements for these somewhere? If not, how do you remove them to replace them when they are broken?

The windows were installed in 2001, and are in otherwise great shape. Thanks in advance

 

First of all, if you can figure out the brand of window, many vinyl window companies will have a parts warranty and you should be able to get parts at little to no cost, if you can contact the service dept. of the window company or one of their dealers directly.

As to your question, it's hard to say without seeing it. There are several types of tilt-latch mechanisms, and its impossible to say which type you have. Some are self-contained and mount on top of the window with 2 screws on either side of the "button" that you slide. Others slide into a slot in the sash and sometimes click into place (you have to press a release button with a toothpick or similar to get them out). I think some may also be self-contained and slide into a notch in the sash and they are usually screwed from the side.

So you might have the latter. But I'm just guessing. If you can't find the manufacturer, you might try posting a picture of the latch (assembled and disassembled) and we'll try to find a match. Windows often have NFRC stickers left in the frame (sometimes above the top sash, or in some other inconspicuous place). Sometimes the aluminum spacer will have some etching that will help identify it. Or the locks may have a brand name on them.

 

I recently purchased a home with newer windows. One of the tilt latches is broken. I found some replacements at swisco.com and fdsons.com. They are reasonably priced. I have not ordered yet. Good luck, I 'd like to hear what you found.

 

I have the same problem. One of the spring latches holding the window upright is broken and the other is weakened. The window fell out the other day and almost creamed my cat. I have two pictures but I could not figure out how to attach them (I don't have a personal web site), and I could not find a "Pictures & Albums" link on my profile page. If anyone can help me find replacement latches, I can send the pictures to another email address, or try to figure out how to post them on the web.
Thanks,
Rainbowdrgon

 

Broken latches are the biggest PITA I deal with.

Try Blaine Window Hardware. They have a large online catalog and are very helpful.

 

Well..the original post is from '07...always better to start a new one.

To the new question...as well as Blaine (great people there, btw) might try AAA Screen.com also great people...and they carry a large inventory of replacement parts by one of the largest part manufacturers in the country. Their catalog is very extensive...and you may find a match.

 

Thats the 2nd time in 2 days. I caught the 1st one and bit on this one.
Thanks for the tip on AAA gunguy. I'll check them out on another project I have going.

Gunguy, BTW, your not 'the' Vic from gunboards by chance?

 

Nope....don't even go to any of them...the discussions just get wierd sometimes...though don't know that one specifically.