Sash Window Locks
Sash window locks are a crucial part of your home's security. When properly installed, these locks make it harder for burglars to break through your windows. This is the most common way to gain entry.
These fasteners can be used to secure the vertical sliding windows. They can be used with uPVC, aluminum, or timber frames. They can be left unlocked or locked and come in different styles, including bolts that protrude and require to be removed with keys.
Types
There are many different kinds of sash windows locks that are designed for locking the sashes when closed. They are especially useful for older sash windows that might not be as secure as modern ones, and they could make it harder for burglars to gain access into your home.
These sash windows locks are available in a variety styles and finishes to fit your windows. They are also available at different price points so you can pick one that suits your budget. There is also many different accessories that can help to enhance the function of these locks, including Sash lifts and sash stops that can be attached to both sides of the lower sash.
The basic sashlock is comprised of just two parts that are the strike plate (also called the keeper) and the body of the lock. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is mounted on the bottom rails of the upper sash and the keeper is mounted on top of the lower sash. When the lock is engaged, it stops the sashes from being opened.
If you want to increase the security of your sash window, you can opt for two screws that attach to the top and bottom sashes. These screws can only be removed with a key. They are more expensive, but will provide greater security to your home.
Half-moon and centre catches are other sash window locks that can be installed. They prevent each sash from moving in front of the other. They can be a economical option than locking the windows, but they should be used with caution as they are quite simple to open, especially with the use of a screwdriver or a the slim line chisel.
Pin locks and chain lock are also good security measures for windows with sash. They connect one part of a lock to the sash, and the other part to the frame. These are a good choice for windows that don't require a lot of movement, like bays or casements, and they can be easily installed by a competent DIYer.
Materials
Sash window locks can be made of a number of different materials. However, certain materials are superior to others in terms of strength, durability and resistance to environmental influences such as rot. Accoya is a fantastic material for window frames made of sash. This type of wood is treated with a special process that increases its durability. It also makes it difficult for intruders break into homes with sash windows. European redwood is another excellent alternative for sash window frames. This kind of wood undergoes a specific treatment process that improves its durability and makes it impervious to environmental elements.
Sliding window locks come in a variety of finishes, which allows homeowners to find options that match their interior design themes and enhance the appearance of their homes. In addition, sash window locks come in a variety of prices, meaning that homeowners can pick the locks that best fit their budgets without having to compromise security or style.
It is crucial to add security to your sash windows, specifically when you are a parent of infants. Fortunately, it's easy to make your sash windows child-proof. All you need is a set of child safety window restrictors. These are small bolts that sit on the side of the upper portion of the sash. They operate using the use of a specific key. These bolts are fitted at a height away from the reach of the majority of children, which is a critical element in keeping them safe.
Sash stops are a different option to increase the security of your sash windows. These are designed to prevent the sashes from sliding over each other and can be installed in a variety of positions that include three open positions with two closed positions and one fully locked. These can be fitted with protruding screws or key-extractable models. They are crucial for enhancing the security of your home.
Inspecting your windows regularly for signs of wear is another important factor to secure them. It's a good idea to hire a professional to examine and repair your Sash cords and spiral balances. These can become knotted over time and could affect the security of your home.
Security
There are various security features that can be added to sash windows in order to make them more robust and resistant to burglary attempts. They can include child safety window locks and dual screws. Restrictors sit at the sides of the upper part of your sash windows and can only be operated with a special key, which makes it difficult for infant children to open the window. In the same way, two screws bolt through both the bottom and top of your sash windows to create an effective barrier to forced entry.
Replace the centre catches of your sash window by stronger, more durable catches. Criminals could use crowbars in order to open sash windows, especially if they have been painted and the conventional centre catches are weaker than the modern ones. Upgrade the catches in the centre to a more durable model and you can avoid this. This is the most efficient method to increase the security of windows in sash.
It's also worth mentioning that regular maintenance can improve the security of sash windows. Make sure that your balances or spiral cords are in good shape and that you sand down the frame prior to repainting to stop criminals from making a crowbar entrance point. It's also a good idea to add an egressor for security to your windows. These could be protruding or key-extractable, and they prevent sashes from opening too wide.
It's also important to think about the kind of wood you pick for your sash windows as it can impact on their security. Hardwoods such as mahogany or oak are extremely durable and tough makes it difficult for criminals cut or open the windows sash. Accoya is also a good choice as it undergoes an acetylation process that improves its durability. It is therefore able to hold precise fittings, security features and other features better than the other types.
Maintenance
It's important that you address the issue immediately if your sash window isn't locking properly. This is not only a security risk but it can also lead to drafts and other problems. This is usually caused by obstructions, such as debris, which prevent the sash from locking. It could be as easy as a wood block that has been tucked away in the window frame, or overgrown foliage that's allowing moisture within and damaging the sash and lock. To get rid of this issue clean the sill and channels, taking care to look out for the crevices that surround the locks and the areas which come into contact with them. Spray them with Pledge furniture grease. This makes it easier to move the channels and prevent future obstructions.
Maintaining your sash window is also important. This includes fixing wear, installing additional layers of protection like windows stops or security bars, and utilizing energy-saving features such as opening restrictors.
They are fitted to the stiles of the upper sash and prevent them from sliding past each one. These can be installed in pairs so that windows open slightly for ventilation but not too much. This stops burglars from getting easy access.
The surface-mounted or hidden latter is usually fitted with the weight of the sash or hidden behind a glass panel. The two main types of sash stops have either bolts protruding out that require an unlocked key to remove them or bolts that can be extracted and retracted without removing the sash.
To replace a window lock on a sliding sash, remove the old fastener using the help of a screwdriver or drill. After the old fastener has been removed and the frame is marked with an eraser where you'll have to drill. Test the new fastener and ensure it is properly fitted. If everything is in order then use a riveting gun to secure the new fastener.
Sash window locks are an excellent form of security for windows with traditional sash. However, they aren't immune to attack by burglars who may be capable of using a knife to break open a pivot catch or hammer away the screw latch. Make sure you upgrade your window sash security by utilizing the correct combination of locks and materials. Also, adhere to a regular maintenance schedule.