Five Killer Quora Answers To Sash Window Locks

Sash Window Locks

Sash window locks are an essential part of your home's security. When properly installed they make it harder for burglars to break in through your windows, which is the most popular way to gain access.

These fasteners can be used to fix a vertical sliding window. They can be used with aluminium, upvc double glazed sash windows, or timber frames. They can be locked or unlocked and are available in a range of designs including protruding bolts that have to be removed using keys and bolts that can be extracted that are easily retractable.

Types

There are many different kinds of sash windows locks that are designed to secure the sashes when closed. They are especially beneficial for older windows that may not be as secure as modern sash windows, and may make it difficult for burglars to gain entry into your home.

These window locks are available in various styles and finishes to match the look of your windows, and they are available at a range of price points to fit within your budget. There are also a range of accessories available to enhance the appearance and functionality of these locks. These include sash stops and sash lifts which can be installed on either side of the lower sash.

A basic sash lock consists of two components: the lock body and the strike plate, also called the keeper. The body of the lock is placed on the rails at the bottom of the upper upvc double glazed sash windows, and the keeper is affixed on top of the lower sash. When the lock is engaged, it prevents the sashes being opened.

If you are looking to increase the security of your sash windows you can choose to use dual screws that bolt through the top and bottom sashes. They can only be removed with a key. These are more costly, but offer better protection for your home.

Centre catches and half-moon catch are the other window locks which can be installed. They prevent each sash from moving in front of the other. These are less expensive than locking windows, but should be used with caution, as they can be easily opened with a screwdriver, or a slimline chisel.

Other security measures for windows with sash include pin locks and chain locks, which join one part of the lock to the sash, and the other to the frame. These are a good choice for windows that don't require lots of movement, like bays or casements and can be installed easily by a competent 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 elements such as rot. Accoya wood is an excellent example of a superior material to use for windows made of sash. The wood is treated with a special process that increases its durability. It also makes it difficult for intruders to gain entry into homes with sash windows. European redwood is another great choice for sash windows. This kind of wood is also treated with a special process that improves its durability, and also makes it resistant to environmental factors.

Sliding sash locks can be found in a variety of finishes. This lets homeowners pick a lock that matches their interior design style and look of their home. Additionally windows with sash locks are available in a wide variety of prices, meaning that homeowners can select the ones that are most affordable for their budgets, without losing security or aesthetics.

It is essential to provide security to your sash windows, especially if you are a parent of children who are young. 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 section of the sash. They operate using an exclusive key. These bolts are installed at a height far enough away from the majority of children and is an essential element in keeping them safe.

Sash stops are an additional option to increase the security of your windows made of sash. These are designed to prevent the sashes from sliding across each other and can be installed in a variety of positions which include three open positions and two that are partially closed and one that is fully locked. They can be equipped with protruding screws, or key-extractable versions. They are essential to 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 wear and tear. It's also a good idea to employ an expert to inspect and repair the sash cords or spiral balances, which could get tangled over time and can compromise your home's security.

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. This could include child safety window restrictors and dual screws. Restrictors are placed on the sides of the upper sash window and are only accessible with the use of a specific key. This makes it difficult for children to open the windows. Similarly, dual screws bolt through both the top and bottom of your sash windows. They create an effective barrier to forced entry.

Another method to increase the security of your sash windows is to replace the central catches with more robust, durable ones. Criminals may use crowbars to open sash windows particularly if they've been overpainted and the conventional centre catches are less durable than modern versions. Upgrade the centre catches to a stronger version and you'll be able to prevent this. This is the most efficient method to increase the security of windows made of sash.

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

It is also important to consider the type of wood you select for your sash windows as this can have an impact on their security. Hardwoods such as mahogany or oak are extremely sturdy and tough makes it difficult for thieves to cut or open the window sash. Accoya wood is a great option, since it goes through an exclusive acetylation process that increases its durability and stability. This means that it's able to hold precision fittings and security features better than other types of wood.

Maintenance

It's important that you address the problem immediately if your sash window isn't closing properly. This isn't just an issue for security, but it could cause drafts and other problems. This is usually caused by debris or other obstructions which prevent the sash from locking. This may be as simple as a block of wood stuck in the window frame, or built-up foliage that's keeping moisture inside and creating damage to the sash and lock. To fix this clean up the sill and channels taking care to look out for crevices around the locks and the areas that are in contact with them. Spray them with Pledge furniture lubricant. This will allow you to move the channels and will prevent any future obstructions.

It is also essential to maintain your windows with sash to ensure they are at their best. This means fixing wear, installing additional layers such as security bars or windows stops and using energy-saving features such as opening restrictors.

They are fitted to the stiles of the upper sash and stop them from sliding over each other. They can be fitted in pairs to permit the windows to open a little for ventilation but prevent them from opening too much and giving burglars easy access.

Surface-mounted or hidden, the latter can be mounted under a double glazed sash windows cost's weight or concealed behind a glass panel. The two primary types of sash stop come with either protruding bolts that require an unlocked key to remove them or bolts that can be removed and retracted without removing the sash.

To replace a window lock on sliding sash, take off the existing fastener with a screwdriver or drill. After the old fastener is removed then mark the frame using a pencil where you will need to drill. Then, you can test the new fastener against your window to ensure it fits properly. If everything checks out then, place the new fastener and employ a rivet gun to anchor it in place.

Sash window locks are a great form of security for traditional sash windows. They aren't safe from attack by burglars, who may be able to employ a knife to break the pivot latch or hammer out screws to open. To keep your windows from being damaged by burglars make sure you upgrade their security by using the right combination of locks and materials, and follow a regular maintenance routine.