Five 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 more difficult to gain entry into your home through windows, which are the most frequent method for intruders to gain access.
These fasteners can be used to fix an open window that is vertical. They can be used with uPVC, aluminum, or timber frames. They can be left unlocked or locked and are available in various styles, including bolts that protrude and require to be removed using keys.
Types
There are a variety of sash windows locks that are specifically designed to lock the sashes once 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 access to your house.
These window locks are offered in various styles and finishes to suit the look of your windows. Additionally, they are available in a range of price points that fit within your budget. There are also a range of accessories that can enhance the appearance and functionality of these locks. These include sash stops, sash lifts that can be mounted on either side of the lower sash.
The sashlock's basic design consists of only two components: the strike plate (also known as the keeper) and the lock body. The lock body is mounted on the bottom rails of the upper sash and the keeper is affixed to the top of lower sash. When the lock is engaged, it prevents the sashes being opened.
If you want to boost the security of your sash windows, you can choose to use two screws that bolt through the top and bottom sashes. These screws can only be removed with the use of a key. They are more expensive, but will provide greater security to your home.
Other sash window locks that can be used include centre catches and half moon catches, which restrict each sash from moving over each other. They are a more cost-effective alternative to locking windows, however they must be used with caution since they are quite simple to open, especially with an screwdriver or a slim line chisel.
Pin locks and chain lock are also good security measures for windows that have sash. They join one part of an lock to the sash and the other part to the frame. These locks are great for windows with a limited movement, like bays or casements and can be fitted by a competent diyer.
Materials
Sash window locks are constructed of different materials. Certain materials are superior to others in terms durability, toughness and resistance to environmental elements, such as rot. Accoya is an excellent material for sash windows. This type of wood undergoes a special treatment process that significantly increases its durability and makes it harder for intruders to break into a home through sash windows. European redwood is another excellent alternative for sash window frames. This kind of wood is also treated with a unique process that increases its durability, and makes it more resistant to environmental elements.
Sliding sash locks come in a variety of finishes. This lets homeowners choose options that complement their interior design theme and the style of their home. Sash window locks are available in different prices, so that homeowners can pick the one that is best suited to their budget without sacrificing security or aesthetics.
It is essential to add security to your sash windows, specifically in the case of parents of young children. It's not difficult to make your sash windows childproof. All you need is a set of child-safety window restrictors. These are tiny bolts that rest on the sides of the upper portion of the sash. They operate with a specific key. These bolts are installed at a level that is far enough away from most children and is an essential factor in ensuring they are safe.
Another method to increase the security of your windows by adding sash stops. These are designed to prevent the sashes from sliding across each other. They can be set in a variety positions that include three open positions, two partially closed, and one that is fully locked. These can be fitted with protruding screws or key-extractable models. They are essential to increasing the security of your home.
Another important aspect of securing your home with windows with sash is to regularly inspect them for signs of wear and tear. It's also a good idea to employ a professional to inspect and repair the sash cords and spiral balances that can get tangled over time and can cause security issues for your home.
Security
Sash windows can be fitted with a range of security features to make them more durable and thus less susceptible to break-ins. They could include child safety window security restrictions and dual screws. Restrictors are placed 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. Two screws are bolted to the top and bottom of sash windows to create an obstacle to forced entry.
Replace the catches in the middle of your sash windows with stronger, more durable catches. Criminals can use crowbars to pry sash windows open particularly if they've been painted over, and the traditional centre catches are less secure than modern alternatives. Upgrade the centre catches to a more durable version and you will be able to avoid this. This is the simplest way to improve the security of sash windows.
Lastly, it's worth noting that regular maintenance and upkeep could significantly improve the security of your windows in sash. Make sure that your spiral cords or balances are in good condition and sand the frame prior to repainting to prevent criminals making an entry point with a crowbar. It is an excellent idea, when you have windows that have draught-excluders to include them. These can be protruding or key extractable and they stop the sashes from opening too wide.
It's also worth considering the kind of wood you pick for your sash windows, as this could have an impact on their security. Hardwoods like oak and mahogany are extremely sturdy and tough makes it difficult for criminals cut or pull open the windows sash. Accoya wood is an additional great choice, as it undergoes an acetylation procedure that is unique and improves its durability and stability. This means it can hold precise fittings and security features better than other kinds of wood.
Maintenance
It's crucial to fix the problem immediately if the sash window doesn't lock properly. This isn't just an issue for security, but it can also lead to drafts and other problems. This is often caused by debris or other obstructions that hinder the sash from locking. It could be as straightforward as a piece of wood stuck inside the window frame, or a growth of foliage that causes water to collect and damage the sash. To fix this, thoroughly clean the sill and channels paying particular attention to crevices around the locks and areas that come into contact with them. Then spray them with Pledge furniture grease. This will allow you to move the channels and prevent any future obstructions.
It's also crucial to keep up with your sash windows to keep them in good condition. This includes fixing wear, installing additional layers like security bars or windows stops and making use of energy-saving features like opening restrictors.
They are attached to the stiles on the upper sash and prevent the windows from sliding past each other. They can be fitted in pairs to permit the windows to open slightly to let in air, but stop them from opening too far and giving burglars easy access.
They can be surface-mounted or concealed, with the former fitted under a sash style double glazed windows weight or hidden behind a glazed panel. The two main types of sash stop have either protruding bolts that require a key to remove them or bolts that can be extracted and retracted without removing the sash window replacement.
To replace a window lock on sliding sash, you must remove the existing fastener with a drill or screwdriver. Once the old fastener is removed then mark the frame using the pencil where you'll be drilling. Test the new fastener to make sure it fits properly. If everything checks out then, place the new fastener and use a rivet gun fix it to the window.
Sash window locks are an excellent option for security for windows with traditional sash. But, they're also susceptible to attack by burglars who might be equipped with knives to open an egress catch or hammer away the screw latch. To help keep your replacing sash cords windows secure, upgrade their security with the appropriate combination of lock types and materials and maintain them on a regular basis.