I have vinyl double sash windows, the lower one tilts. I'm not sure about the manufacturer. On the lower window, on the side against the frame, there is a part that broke off while tilting it. I don't know what this part does, but I'd like to replace it. Can anyone identify the part? Or even what it does?

It consists of a plastic piece that fits in the hole in the side of the window, and a metal half moon piece that fits over it.
Thanks!

 

Maybe show us one that isn't broke... and the side of the frame opposite it. I don't see how the window could tilt open or closed with that on there.

 

The picture I attached is of a window with an unbroken piece in it, but it's a bad picture so I took another one. You can see how the metal piece is domed, so maybe that helps it slide out.


Here's a picture of the frame of the window. It has a cutout where the weird piece settles when the window is closed. There are smaller windows in the house that have neither the piece or the cutout, so they are only in the larger windows.


Here's a picture of a window with the piece missing.

 

Well its clearly some type of snubber, but it might take a while to figure out who uses them.

 

Now I know what it's used for, thanks! That makes sense. I tried to find this particular one online but had no luck. Is there a way I can find the manufacturer of the window? I'm going to try calling the builder but it's been many years so I don't know if they'll have the information.

 

Every window is supposed to have a gold NFRC sticker with mfg codes. Usually they are on the top of the window. Some people remove them which is always a big mistake.

 

Oh, OK. I was expecting an actual name, not a code. Thanks again. They are Patriot windows and no longer available. I couldn't find a source for the snubber. I guess I'm giving up on that. But if you don't mind, what's the easiest way to replace a few of these windows, given that I can't just call Patriot? Some have broken seals. Do you have to replace the entire window?

 

No. Any glass company can replace the glass. A double pane insulating glass unit (IGU) first needs to be measured exactly (a pro usually should do it) then they make the glass, then they will come put it in.

Your windows have a removable interior glazing bead that pops off, so the glass will get removed from the inside.

Call any commercial "city glass" store and tell them how many pieces of glass you need measured. You will likely want low-e. Low-e2, gas fill, and triple glass are also options. If your glass has any sort of color to it... some have a greenish hue... you might ask if their brand of low-e will match that. Most people think glass is glass but some won't match very well.

If only one sash opens, that's called a "single hung". On double hungs, both sashes operate.

 

Very helpful. Thank you!