Simonton vinyl windows...

[Rob Amaral]

Anybody running into problems with brand-new "Simonton" brand double-hung vinyl window units not engaging at the meeting rails? The overlapping weatherstripping flanges do not engage properly...

[AHI in AR]

Simonton isn't a brand sold heavily around here, but the only problem I find routinely in vinyl windows is the failure of the installers to install them plumb and level. Windows installed in a parallelogram shape won't usually latch properly at one or both latches.

[Tom Raymond]

Interlocks clash. Eventually they get nicked and dented and clash worse. I have seen really cheap windows where the only viable fix was to cut one of the leaves off. The only reliable way to prevent significant problems is to be vigilant about locking the windows when they are closed. In most cases the sash locks take up any tension on the interlocks.

Which Simonton window? It's been a while since I've played with any, but last I knew there were at least 4 flavors of varying quality. If they're new, problems that prevent normal operation would be covered under the warranty. Any one that can change a light bulb can install replacement sashes.

FWIW, the double hung with the lowest air infiltration rate at my day job doesn't have an interlock, the draftiest ones do.