Sash Window Locks
Sash window locks are a crucial element of your home's security. If installed correctly, these locks make it harder for burglars to break in through your windows. This is the most common way to gain entry.
These fasteners can be used to secure a vertical sliding window. They can be used with aluminium, uPVC or timber frames. They can be locked or unlocked and come in a variety of designs, including bolts that protrude, and need to be removed with keys.
Types
There are many different kinds of sash window locks that are designed to keep the sashes when closed. They are especially beneficial for older sash windows that may not be as secure as modern ones. They can make it more difficult for burglars to gain entry into your home.
These window locks are available in a variety of designs and finishes that will match the look of your windows. Furthermore, they are available in various price points that fit within your budget. You can also find an array of accessories that can help to enhance the functionality of these locks, including Sash lifts and sash stops that can be attached to each side of the lower sash.
A standard sash lock consists of two components that are the lock body and the strike plate, which is commonly called the keeper. The body of the lock is placed on the bottom rails of the upper sash and the keeper is attached to the top of lower sash. When the lock is engaged, it stops the sashes from being opened.
If you're looking to improve the security of your sash window you can select two screws that are bolted into the sashes' top and bottom. These screws are only removed with a key. These are more expensive but will provide greater security to your home.
Other sash window locks that can be used include centre catches and half moon catches that prevent each sash from sliding across each other. They are a more economical alternative to locking windows, however they must be used with care as they are relatively simple to open, particularly with the use of a screwdriver or a the slim line chisel.
Other security measures for windows with sash lock door handles include pin locks and chain locks, which link one portion of the lock to the frame and the other to the frame. These locks are great for windows with little movement, such as bays and casements and can be fitted by a skilled DIYer.
Materials
Sash window locks are constructed from a variety of different materials. Certain materials are superior to others in terms durability as well as toughness and resistance to environmental elements, such as rot. Accoya is a great material for sash windows. The wood is subjected to an exclusive treatment process that significantly increases its durability and makes it difficult for burglars to get into a home through windows with sash. Another excellent option for sash windows is European redwood. This kind of wood is also treated with a unique procedure that improves its durability and also makes it resistant to environmental factors.
Sliding sash locks can be found in various styles and finishes. This lets homeowners select options that match their interior design style and the overall look of their house. sash window locks (morphomics.science) are available in various prices, so that homeowners can choose the one that is best suited to their budget without sacrificing security or aesthetics.
Security for sash windows is an important step to protect your home, especially in the case of children. It's a breeze to make your sash windows child-proof. You only need a set child safety window restrictors. These are tiny bolts that sit on the side of the upper portion of the sash. They operate using the use of a specific key. The bolts are set at a height out of reach for most children, which is a critical factor in ensuring they are safe.
Sash stops are an additional method to improve the security of your windows made of sash. These stops are designed to prevent the sashes from sliding across each other. They can be installed in different positions including three open positions and two partially closed positions. They can be equipped with protruding bolts or key-extractable models and are a crucial element in enhancing the security of your home.
Another important element in securing your home with sash windows is to periodically inspect them for signs of wear and tear. It is recommended to employ an expert to examine and repair the double glazed sash windows cords and spiral balances, which can get tangled with time and could affect the security of your home.
Security
Sash windows can be outfitted with a variety of security options to make them more robust and thus less susceptible to burglaries. They could include child safety window locks and dual screws. The restrictors are located on the edges of the upper portion of your secondary glazing sash windows windows. They can only be operated with an exclusive key that makes it difficult for young children to open the window. Similar to that, two screws go through the top and bottom of your sash windows and create a barrier against forced entry.
Another way to improve the security of your sash windows is to replace the central catches with 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 the catches in the centre to a more durable version and you will be able to avoid this. This is the most efficient method to increase the security of windows made of sash.
It is also important to note that regular maintenance can increase the security of windows with sash. Make sure that your balances or spiral cords are in good condition and sand the frame prior to repainting to avoid criminals gaining access via an entry point for crowbars. It is an excellent idea, if you have windows with draught-excluders, that you include them. These could be protruding or key-extractable, and they prevent windows from opening too wide.
It's also worth considering the type of wood you choose for your sash windows, as it can impact on their security. Hardwoods like oak and mahogany are extremely tough and hard-wearing, making them difficult for criminals to cut or open sash windows. Accoya is also a good option since it undergoes an acetylation that increases its durability. This means that it can hold precise fittings and security features more effectively than other kinds of wood.
Maintenance
It's important that you address the issue immediately if your sash window isn't locking properly. This could be a security issue, but it could also lead to drafts and other problems. A common reason for this is obstructions or debris which prevent the sash from locking. It could be as simple as a piece of wood stuck in the window frame, or a growth of foliage that is causing water to collect and damage the sash. To fix this clean up the sill and channels taking care to look out for the crevices that surround the locks and the areas that are in contact with them. Then, lubricate them with Pledge furniture spray. This will make it easier to move the channels and also prevent future obstructions.
It's also important to maintain your windows that are sash to keep them in good condition. This includes dealing with wear and tear, putting in additional layers of security such as security bars or window stops and utilizing energy-saving features such as opening restrictors.
These are fitted to the stiles of the upper sash. They stop them from sliding past each one. They can be put in pairs to permit the windows to open slightly to allow to let in air, but stop them from opening too wide and allowing burglars easy access.
They can be surface-mounted or concealed, with the latter installed under a sash load or concealed behind a glass panel. The two major types of sash stop have either protruding bolts that require a key to remove them or bolts that can be extracted and retracted without having to remove the sash.
To replace a window lock on sliding sash, you must 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 into the frame. Then, you can test the new fastener against your window to ensure it fits correctly. If everything is in order then, place the new fastener and use a rivet gun secure it in place.
Sash window locks are a great source of security for traditional sash windows. However, they're not immune to attack from burglars who might be equipped with knives to open the pivot catch or hammer away a screw latch. To help keep your sash windows secure, upgrade their security with the appropriate combination of locks and materials. Also, maintain them on a regular basis.