Sash Window Locks
Sash window locks are a crucial element of your home's security. When properly installed, these locks make it harder for burglars to break in through your windows, which is the most common way to gain access.
These fasteners can be used to secure a vertical sliding window. They can be used with uPVC, aluminium, or timber sash windows frames. They can be left unlocked or locked and are available in various designs, including bolts that protrude and require to be removed with keys.
Types
There are many different types of sash window locks that are designed to keep the sashes in place when closed. They are particularly useful for older sash window that may not be as secure as modern sash windows and can make it harder for burglars to gain entry into your home.
These window locks are offered in a variety of styles and finishes to match the look of your windows. Additionally, they are available at various prices that will fit into your budget. You can also choose from a wide range of accessories that enhance the functionality of these locks, such as sash lifts and sash stops, which can be fitted to both sides of the lower sash.
The basic sashlock consists of just two components: the strike plate (also called the keeper) and the body of the lock. The body of the lock is placed on the bottom rails of the upper sash and the keeper is affixed to the top of the lower sash. When the lock is engaged it stops the sashes from being opened.
If you want to boost the security of your windows with sash, you can choose to use two screws that go through the top and bottom sashes. They can only be removed with keys. They are more expensive than standard sash locks but offer improved protection to ensure your home is secure.
Other window locks for sash windows that can be used include centre catches as well as half moon catches, which prevent each sash from sliding past each other. They can be a cost-effective alternative to locking the windows, however they must be used with caution since they are quite simple to open, especially with an screwdriver or a slim line chisel.
Pin locks and chain lock are also good security measures for windows with box sash window. They connect one part of a lock to the sash and the other part to the frame. They are a great option for windows that don't require a lot of movement, such as bays or casements and they are easy to install by a skilled DIYer.
Materials
The materials used in the production of windows with sash locks are diverse. However, certain materials are better than others in regards to durability, strength, and resistance to environmental elements such as rot. Accoya is a great material for sash window frames. This kind of wood goes through an exclusive treatment process which dramatically increases its durability and makes it hard for intruders to break into homes with windows made of sash. European redwood is another great option for sash window frames. This type of wood also undergoes a specific treatment procedure that increases its durability and makes it impervious to environmental factors.
Sliding window locks come in various finishes, allowing homeowners to choose options that match their interior design styles and complement the appearance of their homes. In addition the sash window locks are available in a wide range of prices, meaning that homeowners can select the ones that are most affordable for their budgets without having to compromise security or style.
It is important to secure your sash windows, especially in the case of parents of infants. It's not hard to make your sash window child-proof. All you require is a set of child safety window restrictors. These are small bolts that sit on the sides of the upper portion of the box sash window. They operate using a specific key. These bolts are installed at a height which is out of reach for children. This is an important aspect in ensuring they are secure.
Sash stops are a different method to improve the security of your windows with sash. These are designed to stop the sashes from slipping over each other and can be set in a variety of ways, including three open positions and two that are partially closed and one fully locked. These can be fitted with protruding screws or key-extractable versions. They are crucial for enhancing the security of your home.
The regular inspection of your sash windows for signs of wear is an important factor to secure them. It is also a good idea to hire an expert to inspect and repair the how much do wooden sash windows cost cords or spiral balances, which could get tangled over time and could cause security issues for your home.
Security
There are many security features that can be added to sash windows in order to make them more durable and resistant to burglary attempts. These can include child safety window restrictors and dual screws. Restrictors are located on the sides of your upper sash window and are only accessible with a special key. This makes it difficult for children to open the windows. Similarly, dual screws bolt through both the bottom and top of your sash windows. They create an effective barrier to forced entry.
Replace the catches at the centre of your sash window by stronger, more durable catches. Criminals may use crowbars to pry sash windows open particularly if they've been painted, and the traditional centre catches are less durable than modern versions. However, upgrading the central catch with a stronger design can prevent this from happening, and is one of the easiest methods to increase the security of windows in sash.
It's also worth mentioning that regular maintenance can increase the security of sash windows. Ensure that your spiral balances or cords are in good working order and smooth the frame prior to repainting to prevent criminals from gaining entry with a crowbar point. In addition, it's a good idea to add an egressor for security to your windows. These could be protruding or key-extractable. they prevent windows from opening too wide.
It's also important to think about the kind of wood you choose for your sash windows since it can impact on their security. Hardwoods such as oak and mahogany are extremely robust and durable which makes them very difficult for criminals to cut or lever open the windows. Accoya is also a good option since it undergoes an acetylation that increases its durability. It is therefore able to hold precise fittings, security features and other features better than the other types.
Maintenance
If your sash windows aren't closing securely, it's important to fix the issue as soon as possible. Not only is this a security hazard, but it could also cause drafts and other issues. A common cause is the presence of debris or other obstructions preventing the sash from locking. It could be as simple as a piece of wood lodged in the window frame or overgrown foliage that's allowing moisture within and creating damage to the locks and sash. To fix this clean the sill and channels, paying special attention to crevices around locks and the areas that are in contact with them. Then, lubricate them with Pledge furniture spray. This makes it easier to move the channels and also prevent any future obstructions.
Maintaining your sash window is essential. This includes addressing wear and tear, putting in additional security measures such as security bars or window stops, and taking advantage of energy saving features like opening restrictors.
They are attached to the stiles on the upper sash and stop windows from sliding across one another. They can be fitted in pairs so that windows can open slightly for ventilation, but not too far. This stops burglars from getting easy access.
They can be surface-mounted or concealed, with the latter fitted under a sash weight or concealed behind a glass panel. The two types of windows have bolts that protrude and require a key to remove them or bolts that can be extracted without removing the window sash.
To replace a window sash lock, first remove the old fastener with the screwdriver or drill. After the old fastener is removed, mark the frame with an eraser where you'll need to drill. Then, test the new fastener against your window to make sure it fits properly. If everything checks out then, place the new fastener and use a rivet gun to secure it in place.
Sash window locks provide excellent security for traditional sash windows. But, they're also susceptible to attack by burglars who may be capable of using a knife to pop open the pivot catch or hammer away a screw latch. To keep your windows from being damaged by burglars and secure, you should upgrade their security using the right combination of lock types and materials and keep up with a regular maintenance schedule.