Five Killer Quora Answers To Sash Window Locks

Sash Window Locks

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

These fasteners can be used to fix the vertical sliding windows. They can be used with aluminium, uPVC or timber frames. They can be locked or left unlocked and are available in a variety of styles including protruding bolts that have to be removed using a key and extractable bolts that can be easily retracted.

Types

There are many different kinds of sash window locks with key windows locks designed to lock the sashes to their place when closed. These are particularly useful for older windows that may not be as secure as modern ones, and can make it more difficult for burglars to gain access into your home.

These window locks are available in a variety of designs and finishes that will match the style of your windows. Furthermore, they are available in different price points to fit within your budget. There are also a variety of accessories available to enhance the functionality and appearance of these locks. These include sash stoppers, sash lifts that can be mounted on either side of the lower sash.

The basic sashlock is comprised of just two parts: the strike plate (also called the keeper) and the lock body. The lock body is mounted on the rails at the bottom of the upper sash, and the keeper is affixed to the top of 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 choose dual screws that bolt into the top and bottom sashes. These screws are only removed with the use of a key. They are more expensive than standard sash locks but provide greater security to keep your home safe.

Half-moon and centre catches are two other sash window locks which can be put in place. They prevent each sash from moving in front of the other. These can be a more efficient alternative to locking the windows, however they should be used with care as they are quite simple to open, particularly with an screwdriver or a the slim line chisel.

Other security measures for windows with sash include pin locks and chain locks, which link one end of the lock to the sash and the other to the frame. These locks are perfect for windows with a limited movement, like bays or casements, and can be installed by a skilled DIYer.

Materials

The materials used to create windows with sash locks are diverse. However, certain materials are superior to others in regards to durability, strength, and resistance to environmental factors like rot. Accoya wood is a good example of an excellent material to use for windows with sash. This type of wood undergoes an exclusive treatment process that dramatically enhances its durability and makes it harder for burglars to get into homes through windows with sash. Another excellent alternative for sash windows is European redwood. This type of wood also undergoes a special treatment procedure that increases its durability and makes it impervious to environmental elements.

Sliding sash locks come in various finishes. This allows homeowners to pick a lock that matches their interior design theme and the style of their home. Additionally, sash window locks come in a wide variety of prices, so homeowners can choose the options that are most affordable for their budgets, without losing security or aesthetics.

It is crucial to secure your sash windows, especially in the case of parents of young children. It's not hard to make your sash window child-proof. All you need is a set of child safety window restrictors, which are little bolts that sit on the sides of the upper part of the sash and operate using a specific key. These bolts are installed at a height which is not accessible to children. This is an important aspect in ensuring they are secure.

Sash stops are another method to improve the security of your sash windows. These are designed to prevent the sashes from slipping over each other and can be put in a variety of ways, including three open positions with two closed positions and one that is fully locked. They can be equipped with protruding bolts or with keys-extractable versions. They are an essential component in enhancing the security of your home.

The regular inspection of your sash windows for signs of wear is another crucial aspect to ensure they are secure. It's a good idea get a professional to inspect and repair your Sash cords and spiral balances. They could become tangled over time and make it difficult to secure your home.

Security

There are various security features that can be added to sash windows in order to make them more durable and resistant to burglary attempts. These can include child safety window restrictors as well as dual screws. The restrictors are situated on the sides of the upper sash window and can only be opened using the use of a specific key. This makes it difficult for children to open the windows. Dual screws are bolted through the top and bottom of sash windows to create a barrier against forced entry.

Another method to increase the security of your sash windows is to replace the centre catches with more robust, durable ones. Criminals may use crowbars, especially in the event that the sash window been painted over. The traditional centre catches are less durable than the modern alternatives. However, upgrading the centre catches to a more durable design can stop this from happening and is one of the easiest ways to improve the security of sash windows.

It's also worth mentioning that regular maintenance can boost the security of sash windows. Make sure that your spiral cords or balances are in good shape and that you sand down the frame prior to repainting it to avoid criminals gaining access via an entry point with a crowbar. It is also a good idea, in the event that your windows have draught-excluders, that you add them. They can be protruding or key extractable and they stop windows from opening too wide.

The type of wood you select for your windows with sash window cost can have an impact on the security. Hardwoods like mahogany and oak are robust and durable, making them difficult for burglars to cut or lever open sash windows. Accoya is also a good option since it undergoes an acetylation that increases its durability. This means that it can hold precise fittings and security features more effectively than other types of wood.

Maintenance

If your windows on sash aren't locking securely, it's important to take action immediately to fix the issue. This isn't just a security hazard, but it can also lead to drafts and other problems. This is often caused by obstructions, such as debris, which prevent the sash from locking. This may be as simple as a piece of wood lodged in the window frame or overgrown foliage that's allowing moisture inside and causing damage to the sash and lock. To fix this clean up the channels and sill, paying special attention to crevices around locks and areas that are in contact with them. Then, lubricate them with Pledge furniture spray. This will make the channels easier to move and avoid future obstructions.

Maintaining your sash window is crucial. This includes fixing wear, installing additional layers of protection like windows stops or security bars, and utilizing energy-saving features like opening restrictors.

These are fitted to the stiles of the upper sash. They stop them from sliding past each one. They can be installed in pairs to permit the windows to open a little to let in air, but stop them from opening too how much do wooden sash windows cost and giving burglars easy access.

They can be mounted on the surface or concealed, with the latter fitted under a sash weight or concealed behind a glass panel. The two main types of sash stop have 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 the window lock on sliding sash, you must remove the fastener that is currently in use using a screwdriver or drill. After the old fastener has been removed then mark the frame using a pencil where you will have to drill. Then, you can test the new fastener against your window to ensure it is positioned correctly. If everything is in place, use a riveting gun to fix the new fastener.

Sash window locks are an excellent option for security for windows with traditional sash. However, they aren't immune to attack by burglars who could be equipped with a knife to break open a pivot catch or hammer off a screw latch. To keep your windows safe from burglars, upgrade their security with the right combination of locks and materials, and keep up with a regular maintenance schedule.