Andersen has agreed that there is a problem. Apparently I'm not the only one with this problem .They said that the wood used under the vinyl will not properly accept the glue, thus resulting in the vinyl to delaminate from the wood. They assure me that this has been fixed. They have had hundreds of complaints like mine.
To remedy my situation, Andersen is going to send all new extension jambs for every window in my house.(even the ones that aren't showing a problem yet) Since there is no repair crew in my area, I was told to get estimates to have them installed. They have agreed to pay for everything. From removal of the trim to replacing any that breaks, install new jambs, install new trim, paint trim and retouch walls as needed-- everything!!! Since I built this house myself, they have agreed to write the check for the work directly to me. I will be doing this work myself. My estimates averaged about $10,000 due to the large amount of windows that I have. Not including all the new jambs they are sending.
To Marie I really love these windows. I wouldn't hesitate to buy them as long as they are the 400 series. One thing that I would change is getting the vinyl wrapped ones. I have received a piece of the new jambs and did my own testing to see if the problem is fixed and I'm happy to say it is. The vinyl look is great but if any damage ever occurs to the vinyl, it is impossible to fix. I have a dog that loves to look out the window. Her claws have put some small dents in the vinyl. One of my windows was bumped during the installation, the vinyl jamb is impossible to fix. If the vinyl wrap isn't treated with the utmost of care, you will have something that can never be repaired. I will be talking to Andersen on Monday. I am going to have the new jambs be the ones that are primed only. NO VINYL. If any damage ever does happen, I will be able to use a little wood filler and paint right back over. This is something that I should have thought of from the beginning but I thought that it was just one less thing that I would have to paint.
This experience of mine was a blessing in disguise. Once I realized that repair to the vinyl was impossible, I wish that I had never purchased the vinyl wrap. That realization came within days of window installation.
Since I had the vinyl problem with the jambs, I will be able to correct this with the primed only ones. What a real break for me.
To anyone thinking of vinyl wrapped extension jambs, I can't stress enough DON'T DO IT!!!
Andersen Windows seems to be taking care of my problem. I will reserve final judgement on this issue when I get the new jambs and the $10,000 check for the labor.
I should know tomorrow July 12th.
Marie I tried to upload pics of the problem and it didn't work. I would be happy to send them to you or anybody else that wants them.
Email me at rotti@massed.net
My dog doing what she does best.
Doing what she does best. Hers comes from here
Doing what I do best. Mine comes from here.
