5 Killer Quora Answers On Sash Window Locks

Sash Window Locks

Sash window locks are an essential element of your home's security. Fitted correctly they make it difficult to break into your home through windows, which are the most common way for criminals to gain entry.

These fasteners can be used to secure a vertical sliding window. They can be used with aluminium, uPVC or timber sash windows frames. They can be left unlocked or locked and come in a variety of designs, including bolts that protrude and require to be removed with keys.

Types

There are many different kinds of sash windows locks that are designed to keep the sashes in place when closed. These are especially useful for older windows that aren't as secure as modern sash windows, and could make it more difficult for burglars to gain entry into your house.

These sash window locks come in various styles and finishes to match the look of your windows. Additionally, they are available in various prices that will fit into your budget. There are a variety of accessories that can enhance the performance and appearance of these locks. They include sash stops, sash lifts that can be put on either side of the lower sash.

A basic sash lock consists of two parts that are the lock body and the strike plate, which is commonly called the keeper. The lock body is positioned on the bottom rails of the upper sash, and the keeper is attached on top of the lower sash. When the lock is activated, it prevents the sashes being opened.

If you're looking to improve the security of your sash window, you can choose dual screws that bolt into the sashes' top and bottom. These screws are only removed with a key. They are more expensive than standard sash locks but provide better security to keep your home safe.

Other windows with sash locks that can be used include centre catches and half moon catches, which prevent each sash from sliding past one another. They are a more economical option than locking the windows, but they should be used with caution as they are fairly easy to open, particularly with a screwdriver or the slim line chisel.

Pin locks and chain locks are also good security measures for windows with sash. They join one part of locks to the sash and the other to the frame. These are a good choice for windows that don't need much movement, like bays or casements, and they are easy to install by a competent DIYer.

Materials

The materials used to create sash window locks vary. However, certain materials are superior to others in terms of strength, durability, and resistance to environmental elements like rot. Accoya wood is an excellent example of a superior material for windows with sash. The wood is treated with a special process that increases its durability. It also makes it harder for intruders break into homes with sash windows. Another excellent option for sash windows is European redwood. This type of wood also undergoes a special treatment process that increases its durability and makes it more resistant to environmental influences.

Sliding sash locks come in various styles and finishes. This lets homeowners select options that match their interior design style and look of their home. Additionally the sash window locks are available in a variety of prices, so homeowners can choose the options that fit their budgets, without losing security or aesthetics.

The addition of security to sash windows is a crucial step to secure your home, especially in the case of children. It's a breeze to make your sash windows child-proof. You'll need only a set of child safety window restrictors. These are small bolts that are placed on the sides of the upper portion of the secondary glazing sash windows. They operate by using a special key. These bolts are installed at a height that is away from the reach of the majority of children and is an essential aspect in ensuring their safety.

Another way to enhance the security of your windows by installing sash stops. These stops are designed to stop the sashes from sliding over one other. They can be put in with different positions, including three open positions and two partially closed positions. They can be equipped with protruding bolts or with key-extractable models and are an essential component in enhancing the security of your home.

Another important aspect of securing your home with sash windows is to periodically check them for signs wear and tear. It's a good idea to get a professional to inspect and repair your Sash cords and spiral balances. These can become knotted over time and could compromise the security of your home.

Security

There are a variety of security features that can be added to sash windows to make them more robust and resistant to break-in attempts. They could include child safety window restrictions and dual screws. Restrictors are located 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. They create an effective barrier to forced entry.

Another way to bolster the security of your windows in sash is to replace the centre catches with more robust, durable ones. Criminals may use crowbars particularly when the sash window has been overpainted. The traditional centre catches, however, are less durable than the modern alternatives. However, upgrading the central catches with a more durable design can stop this from happening and is one of the easiest methods to increase the security of sash windows.

It's also worth noting that regular maintenance can improve the security of windows with sash. Make sure that your balances or spiral cords are in good condition and that you sand the frame prior to repainting to prevent criminals making an entry point with a crowbar. It is an excellent idea, if you have windows with draught-excluders to add them. These could be protruding or key-extractable. they stop sashes from opening too wide.

It is also important to consider the kind of wood you choose for your sash windows as this could have an impact on their security. Hardwoods such as mahogany and oak are extremely sturdy and tough makes it difficult for thieves to cut or pull open the sash window. Accoya is another good option since it undergoes an acetylation process that improves its durability. This means it is able to support precision fittings and security features better than other types of wood.

Maintenance

If your sash windows aren't closing securely, you must fix the issue as soon as possible. This is not only an issue for security, but it can also lead to drafts and other problems. This is typically caused by obstructions or debris that hinder the sash from locking. This may be as simple as a block of wood that has been tucked away in the window frame, or built-up foliage that's keeping moisture within and damaging the locks and sash. To fix this, clean the channels and sill thoroughly, paying special attention to the crevices as well as areas that come into contact with the locks. Then, lubricate them with Pledge furniture spray. This makes it easier to move the channels and prevent future obstructions.

It is also essential to maintain your sash windows to keep them in good condition. This includes dealing with wear and tear, installing additional security measures like security bars, window stops and utilizing energy-saving features such as opening restrictors.

They are attached to the stiles of the upper sash. They stop them from sliding over each other. They can be put in pairs to permit the windows to open slightly for ventilation but prevent them from being opened too wide and allowing burglars 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 major types of sash stops have either bolts protruding out that require the use of a key or bolts that can be extracted and retracted without having to remove the sash.

To replace a window sash lock, first take off the old fastener with the screwdriver or drill. After the old fastener is removed and the frame is marked with an eraser where you'll need to drill. Then, you can test the new fastener on your window to ensure it is positioned correctly. If everything is in place you can use a gun for riveting to fix the new fastener.

Sash window locks are a great option for security for traditional sash windows. However, they're not immune to attack by burglars who may be equipped with a knife to pop open an egress catch or hammer off the screw latch. To keep your windows safe from burglars make sure you upgrade their security by using the correct combination of locks and materials, and maintain them on a regular basis.