Pivot Bar
If you are looking to replace window and sliding door parts, it may be challenging to identify which parts you need. Each part has a specific function, which makes it unique, and the wrong replacement could result in suboptimal performance or an outright failure. One part of the window or sliding door that often causes confusion is the pivot bar. It might not be the most prominent part of the window or door, but it is essential for its functionality. In this article, we will explore the pivot bar’s definition, identification, and function, complete with helpful tips and real-world examples.
What is a Pivot Bar?
A pivot bar is a small, but crucial component of a vertically sliding window or door. It is typically made of metal, usually steel or zinc, and is installed on the bottom of the sash of a double-hung window or horizontal-sliding window. The pivot bar engages with the pivot shoes, which are the plastic or metal components attached to the frame that stabilize the sash’s vertical position. The pivot bar allows the sash to pivot horizontally or vertically, depending on whether it is a sliding door or a window.
Identification of a Pivot Bar
Identifying a pivot bar can be tricky, as they come in different sizes and shapes, and are often made by different manufacturers. However, with the right information, you should be able to identify a pivot bar with ease. The pivot bar has two critical features: the pivot point and the cam. The pivot point is the part that connects the pivot bar to the sash. The cam is a curved metal piece that locks the pivot bar into the shoe, holding the sash in place, and allowing it to pivot freely. The shape and size of the cam will vary depending on the window or door.
When trying to identify a pivot bar, it’s best to start with the make, model, and year of the window or door. These details are often found on a sticker, which is located on the window or door’s frame or glass. Alternatively, you can bring the pivot bar with you to a hardware store or repair shop and compare it with others to find a match.
Function of a Pivot Bar
A pivot bar’s function is simple; it connects the sash to the pivot shoes, allowing the sash to pivot horizontally or vertically. However, it is critical to choose the right size and shape for your window or door, as the pivot bar’s proper function is essential to the proper operation of the window or door.
If the pivot bar is too thin for the weight of the sash or too long, it can become bent or distorted, causing the window or door to become misaligned or not function properly. On the other hand, if the pivot bar is too short, it will not engage with the pivot shoes, leading to the sash sliding open by itself or not staying open independently. The correct pivot bar will ensure that the sash remains in place while operating smoothly.
Tips for Replacing a Pivot Bar
Replacing a pivot bar is relatively simple, although it may take some patience and persistence. First, remove the window or door sash by pulling it out of the frame. Then, identify the pivot bar’s position on the sash, and remove it from the sash by prying it off with a flat-head screwdriver.
Next, identify the pivot shoes on the window or door’s frame and remove the old pivot bar. To do this, use pliers or a pair of needle-nose pliers to grip the pivot bar and pull it out of the pivot shoe. Finally, insert the new pivot bar into the pivot shoe and check that it moves freely. Reattach the sash to the frame and check that it operates smoothly.
Real-world Examples of Pivot Bar Use
A pivot bar may seem like a small and insignificant part of a window or sliding door, but it plays a significant role in how it functions. For example, if the pivot bar is damaged, the sash on a window might not remain in place, causing it to slide down, even when it is locked. This can lead to drafts or loss of energy efficiency. Similarly, in a sliding door, the pivot bar can be damaged, leading to the door becoming misaligned and scraping against the frame.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pivot Bars
1. What material is a pivot bar made of?
A pivot bar is most commonly made of steel or zinc, although other metals may also be used.
2. Can I replace a pivot bar myself?
Yes, replacing a pivot bar is a simple process that most homeowners can do themselves with some basic tools and patience.
3. Can a window or sliding door operate correctly without a pivot bar?
No, a pivot bar is essential for proper window and sliding door function. Without it, the sash wouldn’t remain in place, and the window or door would not pivot correctly.
4. How often should pivot bars be replaced?
Pivot bars should only be replaced when damaged or when the window or door requires repairs.
5. Can I use a pivot bar from a different manufacturer?
It is best to use a pivot bar made by the same manufacturer to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. However, you can use a pivot bar from a different manufacturer if it is an exact match in size and shape.
6. How can I identify the right pivot bar for my window or door?
Check the make, model, and year of the window or door and compare the pivot bar’s size and shape to those of other pivot bars available.
7. Can a pivot bar be repaired?
In most cases, a damaged pivot bar cannot be repaired and should be replaced.
8. Can a door’s pivot bar be replaced while the door remains in place?
No, the door must be removed to replace a pivot bar.
9. Can a damaged pivot bar cause drafts or reduced energy efficiency?
Yes, if the sash doesn’t remain in place due to a damaged pivot bar, air can seep inside, causing drafts and reducing energy efficiency.
10. Can pivot bars be used in other types of windows, such as casement windows?
No, pivot bars are designed specifically for vertically sliding windows or sliding doors and cannot be used in casement windows.
A pivot bar may seem like a small and insignificant part of a window or sliding door, but it plays a significant role in how these features function. Identifying and replacing a pivot bar is relatively simple, and doing so will ensure that your windows and doors operate correctly. Now that you know the definition, identification, and function of a pivot bar, you are better equipped to maintain or repair your windows and doors.