Double Pivot Bar
Double Pivot Bars are essential components of windows and sliding doors, ensuring their proper operation and security. They consist of two metal bars linked together by a pivot mechanism, enabling the sash of a double-hung window or sliding door to slide up and down effortlessly.
However, identifying the right Double Pivot Bar can be a daunting task as they are available in different sizes, styles, and materials to accommodate various window and sliding door designs. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to Double Pivot Bar identification, including their functionality, types, materials, and common issues.
What is a Double Pivot Bar?
A Double Pivot Bar is a type of window and sliding door hardware component that facilitates the movement of sashes, enabling easy opening and closing of windows and doors. Double Pivot Bars are vital components of double-hung windows, allowing the upper and lower sashes to move in opposite directions. The purpose of a double pivot bar is to provide smooth and stable movement for the window sash, reducing friction and enhancing durability. It also ensures the window or sliding door remains secure when closed and enhances its weatherproofing capabilities.
Types of Double Pivot Bars
There are two primary types of Double Pivot Bars based on their placement and installation technique. They are Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars and Handed Double Pivot Bars.
- Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars
Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars are installed directly on the window sash, enabling the sash to pivot on the bar and slide up and down seamlessly. They are the most common type of Double Pivot Bars and can be used on single hung or double hung windows.
Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars are available in different sizes and styles to fit various window designs. They are easy to install, requiring minimal technical skills, and can be replaced without requiring the entire window sash to be replaced.
- Handed Double Pivot Bars
Handed Double Pivot Bars are installed inside a housing within the window jamb, making them invisible from the exterior of the window unit. They are installed during the manufacturing process, making them challenging to replace, especially for older windows.
Unlike Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars, Handed Double Pivot Bars require an expert to install or replace them, making the process time-consuming and expensive. However, they are more secure and durable than Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars as they are hidden from intruders or natural elements.
Materials and Finishes of Double Pivot Bars
Double Pivot Bars are available in different materials, finishes, and colors to suit various window designs and complement the existing hardware. The most common materials used to manufacture Double Pivot Bars are metal, plastic, or nylon.
- Metal Double Pivot Bars are the most popular type of Double Pivot Bar, and they are typically made of brass, steel, zinc, or aluminum. Each metal has unique properties that affect its durability, strength, and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Brass Double Pivot Bars are popular due to their strength, durability, and resistance to rust, making them ideal for coastal environments. Steel Double Pivot Bars are strong and durable but require a protective coating to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Zinc or Aluminum Double Pivot Bars are lightweight and cost-effective, making them popular for general-purpose applications. However, they tend to corrode quickly and are not suitable for saltwater environments.
- Plastic or Nylon Double Pivot Bars are less durable and secure than Metal Double Pivot Bars, but they are still popular due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. Plastic or Nylon Double Pivot Bars are ideal for lighter window designs or low-budget projects.
Common Issues with Double Pivot Bars
Double Pivot Bars can experience issues due to frequent use, wear and tear or exposure to environmental elements. The common issues include Misalignment, Corrosion, and Warping.
Misalignment
Misalignment occurs when the Double Pivot Bar is not positioned correctly, preventing the sash from moving smoothly. Misalignment can be caused by a loose pivot bar or a bent pivot bar. The solution is to reposition or replace the pivot bar to restore the proper movement of the sash.
Corrosion
Corrosion occurs when the Double Pivot Bar is exposed to moisture, causing the metal to rust and weaken. Corrosion can also occur when the Double Pivot Bar is made of a poor quality material that corrodes quickly. The solution is to replace the corroded Double Pivot Bar with a new one made of a more durable material or coated with a protective layer.
Warping
Warping occurs when the Double Pivot Bar is made of a poor quality material, causing it to bend or warp over time. Warping can also occur when the Double Pivot Bar is exposed to extreme temperature changes, causing it to expand and contract too quickly. The solution is to replace the warped or bent Double Pivot Bar with a new one made of a more durable material or coated with a protective layer.
Double Pivot Bars are essential components of windows and sliding doors, ensuring their proper operation and security. They are available in different sizes, styles, and materials to accommodate various window and sliding door designs. Identifying the right Double Pivot Bar requires knowledge of their functionality, types, materials, and common issues to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Double Pivot Bar?
A Double Pivot Bar is a type of hardware component that facilitates the movement of window sashes in double-hung windows, enabling easy opening and closing.
2. What are the types of Double Pivot Bars?
The two primary types of Double Pivot Bar are Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars and Handed Double Pivot Bars.
3. What are Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars?
Surface Mounted Double Pivot Bars are installed directly on the window sash, enabling the sash to pivot on the bar and slide up and down seamlessly.
4. What are Handed Double Pivot Bars?
Handed Double Pivot Bars are installed inside a housing within the window jamb, making them invisible from the exterior of the window unit. They are installed during the manufacturing process.
5. What are the most common materials used to manufacture Double Pivot Bars?
The most common materials used to manufacture Double Pivot Bars are metal, plastic, or nylon.
6. What are Metal Double Pivot Bars?
Metal Double Pivot Bars are Double Pivot Bars made of brass, steel, zinc, or aluminum.
7. What are Plastic or Nylon Double Pivot Bars?
Plastic or Nylon Double Pivot Bars are Double Pivot Bars made of plastic or nylon.
8. What are the common issues with Double Pivot Bars?
The most common issues with Double Pivot Bars are Misalignment, Corrosion, and Warping.
9. What is Misalignment in Double Pivot Bars?
Misalignment occurs when the Double Pivot Bar is not positioned correctly, preventing the sash from moving smoothly.
10. What is Corrosion in Double Pivot Bars?
Corrosion occurs when the Double Pivot Bar is exposed to moisture, causing the metal to rust and weaken.