Sash windows aren’t always secure. The simple center catches that are used on most windows with sash locks can be opened with the help of a screwdriver or knife.
There are many options available to enhance security without altering the traditional look of timber sash windows. Some of the less noticeable options are opening restrictors and barrel fasteners.
Sash stops
If you have an old timber frame sliding sash window installing a security lock could be a great way to stop children from opening your windows and gaining access. It’s a relatively easy D.I.Y project that you could do on your own and the most appealing aspect is that they are cheap.
There are many alternatives available to secure your sash windows but we’d recommend the Migstop restrictor from Mighton. The spring-loaded device can be locked or opened with the key. It will also stop the window from moving further than the pre-set limit that is great if you have small children.
To install the fastener it is necessary to first close the window and lock it. Draw the positions of the holes with pencil on both sides of the frame. Then drill the holes. Once you have drilled the holes, put the fastener in place and secure it with the screws supplied. You should also test the fastener to ensure it can be closed and opened easily and doesn’t have traps sticking out.
The upper sash is fitted with sash stops to prevent the sashes sliding over one another. They aren’t noticeable and simple to fit but are only effective when they are placed in the right position within the window. For added security you can also add sash bolts which are more difficult to remove, however they require an ignition key to operate them.
The bolts are inserted into the top and bottom of upper upvc sash to stop them from being opened. They are available in two forms, protruding bolts that can only be removed using an instrument or pick bolts that can be extracted. They can be used in combination with sash stops that are attached to the frame, allowing an opening of 100mm, which allows you to get fresh air in without risking burglary.
A frame-to-frame lock is fitted at the bottom of the lower and upper sash. They can be opened using keys and are more secure than sash stops however they might not be suitable for people with disabilities or who struggle to operate an ordinary sash window.
Sash bolts
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to secure your sash windows is with a sash bolt. They are inserted between the inner and outer frames to prevent the sash from being pushed open. They are simple to install and are available in a variety of sizes that fit the majority of windows with sash. It is best to fit them in pairs to give the most effective protection. They are a great alternative to the simple catches which hold the sashes, but you must still secure windows to ensure security.
A sash-window screw is made of brass and comes with a casing that is drilled into the lower sash. The bolt is then screwed in and secured using the key. The bolt secures the two sashes which means that they cannot be opened without a key. They will not stop the window from sliding, so you will have to use an lever or pull cord to open it.
Frame-to-frame locks are another kind of sash lock. The lock is on the top of the lower sash inside and locks with a push-inbolt. This can be operated with a key or automatic, and it provides great security. It’s also quite simple and is a great choice for older sash window.
To ensure that your sash window functions correctly, it is essential to keep them in good condition. Wood decay can cause locks and fasteners to break or loosen, so it’s essential to fix them when you spot a problem. A sash window repair service can assist you in this by resealing and repainting your windows to eliminate wood decay and prevent further problems. They can also fix drafts to make your home more energy efficient.
Surface-mounted locks
These are installed on the frame of a sash window to stop it from opening wide. These locks don’t act as a handle but instead restrict the window by securing it to the frame with a bolt. They can be installed on either double glazed sash window or single-hung sliding sash vertical windows and are ideal for second floor windows. They are not suitable for windows on the first floor because burglars can still open the window.
They are available in different styles and finishes. Some feature protruding bolts which can be removed with the use of a key, while others are concealed inside the frame. They’re more expensive, but offer better security and may be more effective in preventing intruders. They are not as easy to install as sash bolts, and require specialized tools.
It is essential to choose a reputable company for your installation or replacement. Always check a company’s credentials and reviews, as well as social media, and accreditations to ensure you are receiving the best service possible. It’s also a good idea to get quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and service. It is crucial to test the new fasteners after they have been installed to ensure that they function as intended and are secure.
Another option is to use locks that are child-proof for windows that have sash. These locks are used to prevent children from opening windows and are available in a variety of colors and sizes. Some come with a lever that rotates around the quarter of a circle to locate on a catch mounted on the lower window frame. This kind of fastener is usually hung high enough that a child cannot reach it using their hands.
While window screens with locks might make you feel more secure but they’re not a defense against determined burglars. They’re also not designed to prevent children from falling out of a window and shouldn’t be relied upon to do this. You should opt for windows that allow ventilation, but is hard to open without a specific key. These sash window locks are also known as dual screw locks. They have a bolt that fits in the hole in the middle of the sash, and a second bolt that fits into the hole in the casement frame. They are easy-to-install and offer greater protection than a sashstop.
Keyed Sash lock
Traditional sash windows can be easy for burglars to break into, but you can prevent them. One way to start is to have them evaluated and repaired by a professional who can ensure that they’re operating correctly and have been outfitted with security features. This will make it how much do wooden sash windows cost more difficult for criminals to get into their home, and they’ll most likely give up and go on to an alternative target.
Another option is to put sash stoppers in the frame, as they will stop the window from being opened past a certain point. They can be placed on either side of a frame and come in both protruding or non-protruding varieties. They’re easy to fit and are usually made from zinc that has been die-cast, and have white-painted finishes. They’re also very durable and can be locked with keys.
There is also the option of adding sashbolts to the frame in addition to sashstops. These are bolts that go through a hole in the inner sash, and then into a slot on the exterior sash. They stop the sash being pulled open. They can be used in pairs to provide the maximum level of security.
These will not only improve your energy efficiency, but also improve the security of your sash window. This is because they stop the sash from being pulled out, which decreases draughts and heat loss. The bolts are available in protruding or non-protruding versions. You can buy them in sets or individually.
It’s important to keep it in mind that you shouldn’t rely only on these security measures, as criminals will always look for ways to get around them. Therefore, it is essential to install a solid core door and ensure that your locks are working correctly. This will stop criminals from attacking your home and will also improve your overall peace of mind. It is best to have a professional install new sashlocks in order to ensure they’re installed properly and won’t interfere with your windows’ operation. You may also find a company with excellent reviews on social media.