What Freud Can Teach Us About Sash Window Locks

Sash Window Locks

Sash window locks are an essential component of the security of your home. If they are installed correctly they make it more difficult to gain entry into your home through windows - which are the most common way for criminals to gain entry.

These fasteners are fixed onto a vertical sliding sash window and can be used on timber frames, uPVC or aluminium. They can be locked or unlocked and come in a variety of designs, with bolts that protrude and require to be removed using a key.

Types

There are a variety of sash window locks that are specifically designed for locking the sashes when closed. They are especially beneficial for older windows that might not be as secure as modern ones, and they can make it much harder for intruders to gain entry into your home.

These sash window locks come in various styles and finishes to suit the appearance of your windows. Furthermore, they are available at a range of price points that fit within your budget. There are also a variety of accessories that can enhance the appearance and functionality of these locks. They include sash stops and sash lifts which can be installed 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 positioned on the rails at the bottom of the upper sash and the keeper is mounted on top of the lower sash. When the lock is engaged, it stops the sashes from being opened.

If you're looking to improve the security of your windows with sash, you can select two screws that bolt through the top and bottom sashes. These screws can only be removed using keys. They are more expensive, but will provide greater security to your home.

Centre catches and half-moon catch are the other window locks that can be put in place. These prevent each sash moving past the other. These can be a more efficient alternative to locking windows, however they should be used with caution as they are quite simple to open, especially using a screwdriver or the slim line chisel.

Other security measures for windows with sash include chain locks and pin locks, which connect one portion of the lock to the sash, and the other to the frame. These are a good choice for windows that don't need lots of movement, such as casements or bays, and they are easy to install by a competent DIYer.

Materials

The materials used to create windows with sash locks are diverse. However, certain materials are better than others in terms of strength, durability and resistance to environmental factors like rot. Accoya is a fantastic material for window frames made of sash. This type of wood is treated using a special procedure that enhances its durability. It also makes it harder for intruders break into homes with sash windows. Another great alternative for sash windows would be European redwood. This type of wood is also treated with a specific process that improves its durability, and makes it resistant against environmental factors.

Sliding window locks come in a variety of finishes, which allows homeowners to choose options that complement their interior design themes and enhance the look of their homes. Sash window locks come in various price ranges, so that homeowners can choose the one that is most suitable for their budget without sacrificing security or aesthetics.

It is crucial to secure your sash windows, particularly if you are a parent of infants. It's not difficult to make your sash window childproof. All you need is a set of child safety window restrictors, which are small bolts that sit on the sides of the upper part of the sash. They work by using a particular key. The bolts are set at a level that is not accessible to children. This is an essential element in keeping them secure.

Sash stops are a different option to increase the security of your windows with sash. These stops are designed to prevent the sashes from sliding over one other. They can be placed at various positions, including three open positions and two partially closed positions. They can be fitted with protruding bolts or key-extractable versions and are a crucial element in enhancing your home's security.

The regular inspection of your sash and case window repairs windows for signs of wear is another important factor to secure them. It is recommended to hire an expert to examine and repair the sash cords and spiral balances, which could get tangled over time and may affect the security of your home.

Security

There are a variety of security features that can be added to sash windows in order to make them more robust and resistant to break-in attempts. These include child safety window locks and dual screws. The restrictors are located on the sides of the upper section of your flush sash windows windows. They can only be operated with an exclusive key that makes it difficult for young children to open the window. Dual screws are bolted through the top and bottom of sash windows to create an obstacle to forced entry.

Replace the catches at the centre of your sash window with stronger, more durable catches. Criminals may use crowbars to break sash windows, especially if they have been painted over, and the traditional centre catches are less secure than modern versions. However, upgrading the centre catches to a more durable design can stop this from happening, and is among the simplest methods to improve sash window security.

It is also important to note that regular maintenance can boost the security of sash windows. Make sure that your spiral cords or balances are in good condition and sand the frame prior to repainting to prevent criminals making a crowbar entrance point. It is also a good idea when you have windows that have draught-excluders, that you include them. These can be either protruding or key-extractable, and they stop sashes from opening too wide.

The type of wood you choose to use for sash windows can also have an impact on the security. Hardwoods like mahogany and oak are durable and tough which makes them very difficult for criminals to cut or open windows with sash. Accoya wood is an additional great choice, as it undergoes an acetylation procedure that is unique and enhances its strength and stability. This means that it can hold precise fittings and security features better than other types of wood.

Maintenance

If your sash windows aren't closing securely, you must address this issue right away. Not only is this a security hazard, but it could cause drafts and other problems. This is often caused by obstructions, such as debris, that prevent the sash locking. It could be as simple as a wood block that has been tucked away in the window frame, or overgrown foliage that's allowing moisture in and creating damage to the locks and sash. To get rid of this issue clean the sill and channels, paying particular attention to the crevices that surround the locks and areas which come into contact with them. Then, lubricate them with Pledge furniture spray. 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 in good condition. This includes addressing wear, installing additional layers of protection like windows stops or security bars and making use of energy-saving features like opening restrictors.

They are attached to the stiles on the upper sash, and prevent windows from sliding over each other. They can be put in pairs so that the windows can be opened slightly for ventilation but not too much. This stops burglars from gaining access to the windows.

They can be mounted on the surface or concealed, with the latter fitted under a sash weight or hidden behind a double glazed sash windows panel. The two main types feature bolts that protrude. They require a key in order to remove or bolts which can be extracted without removing the window sash.

To replace a window sash lock, first take off the existing fastener using a screwdriver or a drill. Once the old fastener is removed and the frame is marked with the pencil where you'll have to drill. Test the new fastener and ensure it is properly fitted. If everything checks out then place the new fastener and employ a rivet gun to fix it to the window.

Sash window locks are a fantastic option for security for traditional sash windows. They aren't safe from attacks by burglars, who could make use of a knife to open the pivot latch or hammer out screws to open. To help keep your windows safe from burglars make sure you upgrade their security by using the correct combination of locks and materials, and keep up with a regular maintenance schedule.