Sash Window Locks
Sash window locks are an essential part of your home's security. When properly installed, they make it much harder to break into your home through windows, which are the most common way for burglars to gain access.
These fasteners are fixed onto the vertical sash window and can be used on timber frames made of aluminium, uPVC, or. They can be locked or unlocked, and come in a range of designs including protruding bolts that have to be removed with keys and bolts that can be extracted which can be easily retracted.
Types
There are many different kinds of sash windows locks that are designed to secure the sashes to their place when closed. These are especially useful for older sash windows that may not be as safe as modern sash windows and can make it harder for burglars to gain access to your house.
These windows locks for sash windows are available in a variety of styles and finishes that fit your windows. They also come at different prices, so you can find one that suits your budget. There is also a wide range of accessories that can help to enhance the functionality of these locks, such as Sash lifts and sash stops that can be affixed to each side of the lower sash.
A basic sash lock consists of two components: the lock body and the strike plate, which is often called the keeper. The body of the lock is placed on the rails at the bottom of the upper sash, and the keeper is mounted to the top of lower sash. When the lock is engaged, it prevents the sashes being opened.
If you're looking to improve the security of your sash window, you can select two screws that attach to the sashes' top and bottom. These screws can only be removed with a key. These are more expensive than standard sash locks, but provide greater security to keep your home safe.
Half-moon catches and centre catch are the other window locks which can be installed. They stop each sash from moving in front of the other. They can be a cost-effective alternative to locking windows, however they should be used with caution since they are relatively simple to open, especially with the use of a screwdriver or a slim line chisel.
Other security measures for windows with sash include pin locks and chain locks, which link one part of the lock to the sash and the other to the frame. These locks are great for windows with a limited movement, like bays or casements and can be fitted by a skilled DIYer.
Materials
Sash window locks can be constructed of different materials. Certain materials are better than others in terms of durability, strength and resistance to environmental influences such as rot. Accoya wood is a good example of a superior material for sash windows. The wood is subjected to special treatment that significantly increases its durability and makes it harder for intruders to break into homes through sash windows. European redwood is another great choice for sash windows. This kind of wood goes through a special treatment procedure that increases its durability and makes it impervious to environmental influences.
Sliding sash window locks are available in various finishes, allowing homeowners to find options that complement their interior design themes and enhance the look of their homes. Sash window locks come in a variety of price ranges, so homeowners can select the option that best fits their budgets, without compromising security or aesthetics.
Security for sash windows is an important step in securing your home, especially when you have children. It's not hard to make your sash window childproof. All you need is a set of child safety window restrictors. They are little bolts that sit at the edges of the upper portion of the sash. They operate with a specific key. The bolts are set at a height which is safe for children. This is an essential element in keeping them secure.
Another way to improve the security of your sash windows is by adding sash stops. These are designed to prevent the sashes from slipping over each other and can be set in a variety of ways that include three open positions, two partially closed, and one that is fully locked. They can be equipped with protruding bolts or with key-extractable versions and are a crucial element to increase the security of your home.
Regularly inspecting your sash windows for signs of wear is an crucial aspect to ensure they are secure. It is a good idea to get a professional to inspect and repair your Sash cords and spiral balances. These can become tangled over time and make it difficult to secure your home.
Security
There are a variety of security features that can be added to sash windows to make them more sturdy and resistant to burglary attempts. These include child safety window locks and dual screws. Restrictors sit at the edges of the upper part of your sash windows and can only be operated using a special key, which makes it difficult for small children to open the window. Two screws are bolted to the top and bottom of sash windows to provide a barrier against forced entry.
Replace the catches in the middle of your sash window by stronger, more durable ones. Criminals may use crowbars to open sash windows, especially if they have been painted and the conventional centre catches are less durable than the modern ones. Upgrade double glazed sash windows cost repairmywindowsanddoors to a more durable version and you can avoid this. This is the easiest way to improve the security of windows made of sash.
It's also worth mentioning that regular maintenance can improve the security of windows with sash. Make sure that your balances or spiral cords are in good condition and that you sand down the frame prior to repainting it to prevent criminals making an entry point for crowbars. It's also a good idea when you have windows that have draught-excluders to add them. These could be protruding or key-extractable. they stop sashes from opening too wide.
It's also important to think about the kind of wood you select for your sash windows as it can impact on their security. Hardwoods like mahogany and oak are durable and tough, making them difficult for criminals to cut or pull open sash windows. Accoya is also a good option because it undergoes acetylation process that enhances its durability. It can therefore hold precision fittings, security features and other features better than the other types.
Maintenance
It is crucial to address the issue as soon as you notice that your sash window isn't closing properly. This isn't just an issue for security, but it could cause drafts and other problems. This is usually caused by obstructions or debris that hinder the sash from locking. It could be as simple as a piece of wood stuck in the window frame or built-up foliage that's keeping moisture inside and damaging the locks and sash. To resolve this clean up the sill and channels taking care to look out for the crevices that surround the locks and areas which come into contact with them. Then spray them with Pledge furniture lubricant. This will allow you to move the channels and also prevent future obstructions.
It is also essential to maintain your sash windows to keep them in good condition. This includes the repair of wear, putting in additional layers of protection like windows stops or security bars and using energy-saving features like opening restrictors.
They are attached to the stiles of the upper sash and stop them from sliding past each one. They can be put in pairs to permit the windows to open slightly for ventilation, but they will stop them from opening too far and giving burglars easy access.
The surface-mounted or hidden latter can be mounted under a sash's weight or hidden behind a glass panel. The two major types of sash stops have either bolts protruding out that require a key to remove them or bolts that can be removed and retracted, without removing the sash.
To replace the window lock on a sliding sash, remove the fastener that is currently in use using the help of a screwdriver or drill. After the old fastener has been removed, use a pencil to mark the area you'll need drill on the frame. Then, test the new fastener against your window to make sure it is positioned correctly. If everything is fine, position the new fastener and use a rivet gun fix it to the window.
Sash window locks are a great option for security for windows with traditional sash. They aren't immune to attack by burglars, who may be able to use their knife to pop an open pivot latch or smash out screws to open. Improve the security of your sash window by using the right combination of locks and materials. Also, follow the regular maintenance schedule.