Sash Window Locks

Sash window locks are a crucial part of your home's security. If installed correctly, these locks make it harder for burglars to gain entry through your windows. This is the most popular way to gain entry.

These fasteners are fixed onto the vertical sash window and can be used on timber, upvc double glazed sash windows or aluminium frames. They can be locked or left unlocked and come in a variety of designs including protruding bolts that need to be removed with a key and extractable bolts which can be easily retracted.

Types

There are many different kinds of sash windows locks designed to lock the sashes once closed. These are particularly useful for older sash windows which may not be as secure as modern ones, and they can make it much harder for intruders to gain entry into your home.

These sash window locks come in various styles and finishes to suit the appearance of your windows. Additionally, they are available at different prices that will fit into your budget. There are a variety of accessories available to improve the appearance and functionality of these locks. These include sash stoppers and sash lifts which can be put on either side of the lower sash.

The basic sashlock consists of just two parts: the strike plate (also known as the keeper) and the body of the lock. The lock body is positioned on the lower rail of the sash, and the keeper is attached to top of the lower sash. When the lock is engaged it prevents the sashes from being opened.

If you're looking to improve the security of your sash windows you can choose to use two screws that go through the top and bottom sashes and can only be removed using keys. These are more expensive but offer better protection for your home.

Other window locks for sash windows that can be used include centre catches as well as half moon catches, which restrict each sash from moving past one another. These can be a more cost-effective option than locking the windows, however they must be used with care as they are relatively simple to open, especially using a screwdriver or small line chisel.

Other security measures for sash windows include chain locks and pin locks, which connect one part of the lock to the sash and the other to the frame. These are an excellent choice for windows that don't require much movement, like casements or bays and they are easy to install by a competent DIYer.

Materials

Sash window locks are constructed from a variety of different materials. Certain materials are better than others in regards to durability, strength, and resistance to environmental factors like rot. Accoya wood is a good example of a superior material to use for sash windows. This type of wood undergoes special treatment that significantly increases its durability and makes it harder for burglars to get into homes with sash window repairs near me windows. European redwood is a great alternative for sash window frames. This kind of wood goes through a special treatment process that improves its durability and 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 style of their home. Sash window locks come in various prices, so that homeowners can pick the one that best fits their budgets, without compromising security or aesthetics.

It is important to add security to your sash windows, particularly when you are a parent of children who are young. It's not difficult to make your sash window child-proof. All you need is a set of child safety window restrictors, which are tiny bolts that rest at the edges of the upper part of the sash and operate using a specific key. These bolts are installed at a level that is out of reach for most children, which is a critical factor in ensuring they are safe.

Sash stops are another option to increase the security of your windows made of sash. These stops are designed to stop the sashes from sliding over one other. They can be placed at various positions, including three open positions and two partially closed positions. They can be equipped with protruding screws, or key-extractable versions. They are essential 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 examine and repair the sash cords or spiral balances that can get tangled with time and could compromise your home's security.

Security

Sash windows can be outfitted with a range of security features to make them more robust and less prone to burglaries. They could include child safety window locks and dual screws. Restrictors are placed on the edges of the upper portion of your sash windows. They are only operated with an exclusive key that makes it difficult for young children to open the window. Dual screws are bolted through the top and bottom of sash windows in order to create an obstacle to forced entry.

Replace the catches at the centre of your sash window by stronger, more durable catches. Criminals can use crowbars to break sash windows especially if they've been painted over and the conventional centre catches are weaker than modern versions. Upgrade the catches in the centre to a more durable model and you can avoid this. This is the most efficient way to improve the security of windows in sash.

It's also worth mentioning that regular maintenance can boost the security of windows with sash. Make sure that your spiral cords or balances are in good shape and that you sand the frame before repainting it to prevent criminals making an entry point with a crowbar. It's also an excellent idea to install a security draught excluder to your windows. These can be either protruding or key-extractable, and they prevent windows from opening too wide.

The type of wood you choose for Sash windows can influence the security. Hardwoods like mahogany and oak are durable and tough, making them difficult for criminals to cut or lever open windows with sash. Accoya wood is a great option, since it goes through an acetylation procedure that is unique and increases its durability and stability. It will therefore be able to hold high-quality fittings, security features, and other features better than the other types.

Maintenance

If your windows on replacing sash cords aren't locking securely, you must fix the issue as soon as possible. Not only is this an issue for security, but it could also lead to drafts and other issues. The most common reason is debris or other obstructions that prevent the sash from locking. It could be as simple as a wood block stuck in the window frame, or built-up foliage that's keeping moisture inside and creating damage to the sash and lock. To repair this, wash the sill and channels thoroughly, paying attention to the crevices and areas that are in contact with the locks. Then, you can lubricate them using Pledge furniture spray. This will make the channels easier to move and avoid future obstructions.

It is also essential to maintain your windows that are sash to keep them in good condition. This includes addressing wear and tear, installing additional security features such as security bars or window stops, and taking advantage of energy saving features like opening limiters.

They are attached to the stiles on the upper sash and stop windows from sliding across each other. They can be put in pairs so that the windows can open a little for ventilation, but they will stop them from being opened too wide and allowing burglars easy access.

They can be surface-mounted or concealed, with the former placed under a sash weight or concealed behind a glass panel. The two primary types of sash stop have either bolts protruding out that require the use of a key or bolts that can be removed and retracted, without removing the sash.

To replace a window lock that is attached to sliding sash, you must remove the old fastener using a screwdriver or drill. Once the old fastener is removed, use a pencil to mark the location you'll need to drill into the frame. Test the new fastener and ensure it fits correctly. If everything is in order you can use a gun for riveting to fix the new fastener.

Sash window locks provide excellent security for traditional sash Windows. They aren't immune to attack by burglars who might be able to make use of a knife to open a pivot latch or hammer out screws to open. Upgrade your sash window security by choosing the appropriate combination of locks and materials. Also, adhere to the regular maintenance schedule.