Patriot Window - Tilt Latch Replacement

Has anyone had success with finding the correct tilt latch replacement part for the Patriot Windows that were installed by VM? I tried Home Depot & Lowes but none of the ones they carry fit the Patriot windows we have in the house.

 

Worst windows ever. They are complete junk.

 

But does it really make a difference doing the replacement? Is it really that much better for energy efficiency? I am scared of the cost for a single family...but considering doing my main floor since that is where we spend our time.

 

Don't know what type you have but try this company/site:
http://www.swisco.com/discussions/Patriot-Window-replacement-parts-77-14046

 

I had found swisco on the web and I sent them a picture with measurements of the old broken latch and they recommended replacements 26-243 (left) and 26-244 (right) and they both fit perfectly in the Patriot windows that I have in the house. They are $2.65 each if you order 1-24 and $2.32 if you order 25-49. I'm putting in my order to replace all the broken ones and have a few on hand in case other latches break. They had great customer service.

 

We bought all our replacement window "shoes" from Swisco. They're great for any window parts for these Patriot windows. It made a big difference to replace the broken shoes, reattaching any springs that had come loose.

We've looked at replacing windows, but at about $1,000 per window and 20 or so to do, it's a hefty chunk of change. Even if the efficiency completely wiped out ALL our energy bills, it'd still be over 11 years until we broke even (our 3-year average gas/electric has been $1800/year) - if it cut it in half, it'd be over 22 years to recoup the investment.

We have a high efficiency HVAC (new) and UV coating on the windows and stay pretty comfy year round. Since it's unlikely we'll stay 22+ more years here, it's not cost effective for us.

In short, you gotta run YOUR numbers to determine if replacement windows are a good investment - they're not for everyone.

 

Wow, $1,000 average per window really adds up. I assume thats installed? But yea I agree, but our gas/electric is double yours. But we have the film on the windows and try to keep temps. reasonable. I don't have any leaks, just some mild draftiness for now. But yea, hard to imagine a decent payback period.

 

Thanks for posting this - I got these replacements also and they work great!