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Window Parts
To undertake the work described in this fact sheet, you will need to be familiar with some basic window terminology. Figures 1 and 2 indicate the main parts of a window.
| Repairing Operable Windows |
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Some of the most common problems with operable windows relate to the ease of operation and the working of the hardware.
If the window appears to be in good shape, it may be possible to improve airtightness by doing the following:
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adjusting or replacing the sash locks or adding more locks to large windows
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repairing or replacing hinges on casement windows
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ensuring that caulking, weatherstripping and paint are not interfering with the operation (opening and closing) of the window
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ensuring that weatherstripping is fully functional (i.e., it should be flexible, be properly located and make full contact between the sash and the frame)
Proper window maintenance includes annual cleaning of the hardware, tightening of hardware screws and lubricating moving parts. You should also replace any cracked glazing. If major repairs are required, consider seeking the services of a contractor.
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Figure 2. Casement window showing parts and hardware.
Operable windows have sashes that move within the frame, which allow them to be opened to provide fresh air or to serve as emergency exits. Operable windows require weatherstripping - strips of resilient material positioned at the window's moving joints to deflect rain and dust and to minimize air leakage. There are several styles of operable windows, including vertical sliders (Figure 1), casements (Figure 2), awnings, hoppers, horizontal sliders and tilt-and-turn units.
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This article is from Natural Resources Canada web-site
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