5 Killer Quora Answers To Sash Window Locks

Sash Window Locks

Sash window locks are an essential part of your home's security. If installed correctly, these locks make it harder for burglars to break through your windows. This is the most popular method to gain access.

These fasteners are attached to the vertical sash window and can be used on wooden double glazed sash windows, uPVC or aluminium frames. They can be locked or left unlocked and come in a range of designs including protruding bolts which need to be removed using a key and extractable bolts which can be easily retracted.

Types

There are a variety of sash windows locks that are designed for locking the sashes when closed. They are especially beneficial for older sash windows which might not be as secure as modern ones, and can make it much harder for intruders to gain entry into your home.

These sash windows locks are available in a variety of styles and finishes to suit your windows. They also come in different prices, so you can pick one that suits your budget. There are also a range of accessories available to improve the functionality and appearance of these locks. These include sash stops and sash lifts which can be installed on either side of the lower sash.

The basic sashlock consists of just two parts which are the strike plate (also called the keeper) and the lock body. The body of the lock is placed on the rails at the bottom of the upper sash. Likewise, the keeper is attached on top of the lower sash. When the lock is activated, it prevents the sashes being opened.

If you want to boost the security of your sash windows you can opt for two screws that go through the top and bottom sashes and can only be removed with the use of a key. These are more expensive than standard sash locks, but offer improved protection to ensure your home is secure.

Centre catches and half-moon catch are the other window locks which can be installed. They stop each sash window refurbishment from moving over the other. These can be a more efficient option than locking the windows, but they should be used with care as they are quite simple to open, particularly with the use of a screwdriver or a slim line chisel.

Other security measures for windows with sash include chain locks and pin locks, which connect one portion of the lock to the sash, and the other to the frame. These locks are ideal for windows with little movement, like bays or 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 regards to durability, strength, and resistance to environmental influences such as rot. Accoya wood is an excellent example of a great material for sash windows. The wood is subjected to special treatment that significantly increases its durability and makes it harder for burglars to get into homes with sash window repairs windows. European redwood is another excellent choice for sash windows. This type of wood also goes through a special treatment process that increases its durability and makes it more resistant to environmental factors.

Sliding sash window locks are available in a variety of finishes, which allows homeowners to choose options that match their interior design themes and enhance the look of their homes. In addition, sash window locks come in a variety of prices, meaning that homeowners can pick the locks that are most affordable for their budget without having to compromise security or style.

It is important to secure your sash windows, specifically in the case of parents of infants. It's not hard to make your sash window childproof. All you need is a set of child safety window restrictors. These are tiny bolts that are placed on the sides of the upper portion of the sash. They operate with a special key. These bolts are installed at a height which is not accessible to children. This is a crucial factor in keeping them safe.

Sash stops are another method to improve the security of your windows with sash. They are designed to stop the sashes from sliding across each other and can be put in a variety positions which include three open positions, two partially closed, and one fully locked. These can be fitted with protruding screws or key-extractable versions. They are essential to increasing the security of your home.

Another important element in securing your home with sash windows is to regularly examine them for signs of wear and tear. 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 compromise the security of your home.

Security

Sash windows can be outfitted with a variety of security features to make them more robust, and therefore less vulnerable to break-ins. These include child safety window security restrictions and dual screws. The restrictors are situated on the sides of your upper sash windows and can only be opened using an exclusive key. This makes it difficult for children to open the windows. Similar to that, two screws go through the bottom and top of your sash windows to create an effective barrier to forced entry.

Another way to improve the security of your windows in sash is to replace the centre catches with more robust, durable ones. Criminals can use crowbars to break box sash window windows particularly if they've been painted over and the conventional centre catches are less durable than the modern ones. Upgrade the centre catches to a more durable version and you will be able to avoid this. This is the easiest way to improve the security of windows in sash.

It's also worth mentioning that regular maintenance can increase the security of windows with sash. Make sure that your spiral cords or balances are in good condition and that you sand the frame prior to repainting it to prevent criminals making a crowbar entrance point. It's also a good idea if you have windows with draught-excluders, to include them. They can be protruding or key extractable, and they prevent the sashes from opening too wide.

It's also worth considering the kind of wood you select for your sash windows as this could have an impact on their security. Hardwoods like oak and mahogany are extremely tough and hard-wearing which makes them very difficult for burglars to cut or lever open windows with sash. Accoya is also a good option since it undergoes an acetylation process that enhances its durability. This means that it's able to hold precision fittings and security features better than other kinds of wood.

Maintenance

If your windows on sash aren't locking securely, it's crucial to fix the issue as soon as possible. This can be a security issue but it could also lead to drafts and other problems. This is usually caused by obstructions or debris which prevent the sash from locking. This may be as simple as a block of wood lodged in the window frame or the accumulation of foliage that is keeping moisture in and damaging the locks and sash. To fix this, clean the sill and channels thoroughly, paying special attention to the crevices as well as areas in contact with the locks. Then spray them with Pledge furniture Lubricant. This makes the channels easier to move and prevent future obstructions.

It's also important to maintain your windows with sash to ensure they are in top condition. This includes addressing wear, installing additional layers such as 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 over each other. These can be installed in pairs so that the windows are able to open slightly to allow ventilation, but not too far. This prevents burglars from gaining easy access.

They can be surface-mounted or hidden, with the latter placed under a sash weight or hidden behind a glazed panel. The two major types of sash stop come with 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 sash window lock, first take off the fastener that is currently in use using a screwdriver or a drill. Once the old fastener is removed using a pencil, mark the area you'll need drill on the frame. Check the new fastener to ensure it fits correctly. If everything is in order then use a riveting gun to secure the new fastener.

Sash window locks are a great source of security for traditional sash windows. They aren't immune to attack by burglars, who may be able to use their knife to pop the pivot latch or hammer out the screw lock. Upgrade your sash window security by using the right combination of locks and materials. Also, follow a regular maintenance schedule.