It Is The History Of Sash Window Locks

Sash Window Locks

Sash window locks play an essential role in the security of your home. If they are installed correctly, they make it much difficult to break into your property through windows - which are the most common way for burglars to gain access.

These fasteners are attached to the vertical sash window and can be used on timber frames, uPVC or aluminium. They can be locked or left unlocked and are available in a variety of styles including protruding bolts that have to be removed with a key and extractable bolts that are easily retractable.

Types

There are many different kinds of sash windows locks that are specifically designed to secure the sashes when closed. They are especially useful for older windows that might not be as secure as modern ones. They could make it harder for intruders to gain entry into your home.

These window locks are offered in various styles and finishes to suit the style of your windows. Additionally, they are available at a range of price points to fit within your budget. There are a variety of accessories available to improve the functionality and appearance of these locks. They include sash stops, sash lifts that can be installed on either side of the lower sash.

A basic sash lock is made up of two components: the lock body and the strike plate, which is commonly known as the keeper. The lock body is positioned on the rails at the bottom of the upper Bespoke Sash Windows, and the keeper is mounted to the top of the lower sash. When the lock is engaged, it prevents the sashes from being opened.

If you want to boost the security of your sash windows, you can choose to use dual screws that bolt through the top and bottom sashes and can only be removed with keys. They are more expensive, but offer better protection for your home.

Half-moon catches and centre catches are two other sash window locks that can be put in place. These prevent each sash moving in front of the other. They are less expensive than locking windows, however they should be used with care, as they can be easily opened with a screwdriver, or a slimline chisel.

Pin locks and chain lock are also good security measures for sash window. They connect one portion of locks to the sash, and the other to the frame. These are an excellent choice for windows that don't need much movement, like casements or bays and they can be installed easily by a skilled DIYer.

Materials

Sash window locks can be made of a number of different materials. However, some materials are better than others in terms of durability, strength, and resistance to environmental elements like rot. Accoya is a fantastic material for sash windows. The wood is treated with a special procedure that improves its durability. It also makes it more difficult for burglars to break into homes through sash windows. Another excellent alternative for sash windows would be European redwood. This type of wood is also treated with a unique process that improves its durability, and makes it resistant against environmental factors.

Sliding windows are available in a variety of finishes, allowing homeowners to choose options that complement their interior design themes and enhance the style of their homes. Additionally, sash window locks come in a wide range of prices, meaning that homeowners can pick the locks that are most affordable for their budgets, without losing security or aesthetics.

The addition of security to sash windows is a crucial step to protect your home, especially if you have young children. Fortunately, it's easy to make your sash windows childproof. All you need is an assortment of child safety window restrictors. These are little bolts that sit on the sides of the upper section of the sash. They operate using a specific key. The bolts are set at a height out of reach for the majority of children, which is a critical element in keeping them safe.

Sash stops are an additional option to increase the security of your sash windows. These stops are designed to prevent the sashes from sliding across each other. They can be installed in different positions including three open positions and two partially closed positions. They can be equipped with protruding screws or key-extractable models. They are crucial for enhancing the security of your home.

Regularly inspecting your sash windows for signs of wear is another important aspect in securing them. It's also a good idea to engage a professional to inspect and repair the sash cords and spiral balances, which can get tangled with time and could compromise your home's security.

Security

There are various security features that can be added to sash windows in order to make them more robust and resistant to burglary attempts. This could include child safety window restrictors and dual screws. Restrictors are located on the sides of your upper sash style double glazed windows window and can only be opened with an exclusive key. This makes it difficult for children to open the windows. Similarly, dual screws bolt through the top and bottom of your sash windows and provide a strong barrier against forced entry.

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

Also, it's important to note that regular maintenance and upkeep can also significantly increase the security of your sash windows. Make sure that your balances or spiral cords are in good shape and that you sand the frame prior to repainting it to stop criminals from making an entry point for crowbars. Additionally, it's often an excellent idea to install a security draught excluder to your windows. These can either be protruding or key extractable and prevent windows from opening too wide.

The type of wood that you choose to use for sash windows can also have an impact on the security. Hardwoods such as mahogany and oak which are extremely sturdy and tough, make it difficult for thieves to cut or open the window sash. Accoya is another good choice as it undergoes an acetylation process that enhances its durability. This means it's able to hold precision fittings and security features more effectively than other types of wood.

Maintenance

It's crucial to fix the issue as soon as you notice that your sash window isn't closing properly. This could be a security issue however, it could also trigger drafts and other issues. This is usually caused by obstructions, such as debris, which prevent the sash from locking. It could be as simple as a piece wood stuck in the window frame, or a build-up of foliage that causes water to collect and damage the sash. To repair this, wash the sill and channels thoroughly, paying focus on the crevices and areas that come into contact with the locks. Spray them with Pledge furniture lubricant. This makes the channels easier to move and will prevent any future obstructions.

It is also essential to maintain your sash windows to keep them at their best. This includes the repair of wear, putting in additional layers of protection like security bars or windows stops, and utilizing energy-saving features like opening restrictors.

They are attached to the stiles of the upper sash. They prevent them from sliding past each other. They can be fitted in pairs so that the windows can open slightly to let in air, but stop them from opening too much and giving burglars easy access.

They can be mounted on the surface or hidden, with the latter placed under a sash window replacement weight or concealed behind a glass panel. The two major 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 sash window lock, first take off the existing fastener using the screwdriver or drill. After the old fastener has been removed then mark the frame using an eraser where you'll have to drill. Then, you can test the new fastener on your window to make sure it fits properly. If everything is in place you can use a gun for riveting to fix the new fastener.

Sash window locks are a great form of security for windows with traditional sash. They aren't immune to attack by burglars who might be able to make use of a knife to open the pivot latch or hammer out the screw lock. To keep your sash windows secure make sure you upgrade their security by using the correct combination of locks and materials. Also, maintain them on a regular basis.