Tuesday 19 February 2013

What Types Of Locks And Catches Are Best For Sash Windows In Your Home

By Andrew Victor


Security of your home can be improved by installing proper catches and lock systems on the entrances to your house. Knowing what types of locks and catches are best for sash windows will make your shopping easier, since these are the most common ones. Breaking the glass and unlatching the catch is the most common way for break-ins to occur.

Having a lock on the frame would leave the burglar with no option, but to break the glass - making noise, enough to alert you. It is the style of your window that will decide the type of lock you need. Locks are prefitted on some modern double glazed windows.

You may forget to lock a window if you use it regularly, which is a problem that many people may have. An automatic lock will solve the problem, as it closes when the window is shut. At times this would seem irritating, but at least you will not be compromising the house's security or your safety.

Choosing the number of lock units needed is also a concerning matter. A large lock in the center or two small lock systems on each end can be used, if they are strong enough to hold the window. A frame fitted lock is weaker than a bolted one, since the it depends on the frame as well.

There are three other kinds of locks suitable for a metal rimmed window, which include the cock-spur, the frame, and the integral lock. The cock-spur slides up to close the frame. A frame lock uses the assistance of a catch to secure the window with its edges firmly. The integral product is better as it encloses both the frame and case.

Other handy tools to help secure your home are window catches. These don't let your window be opened more than a few inches. Still they can give security at just a minimal level.

This would create enough space for the burglar to slide his hand in and unlock the catch. Unlike the locks, catches do not require any sort of authentication and are just simple holders. A single catcher cannot provide security of the required level, but too many catchers can spoil the looks.

Catchers are primarily used to align the window in its frame. It keeps the window smooth along the walls and won't spoil looks of your home. Latches can fulfill this purpose as well. They are even more secure than the catchers as they keep the opening tightly closed.

Fixing and replacing these locking systems is also not very difficult. Only opening a few screws will uninstall the lock and ready for replacement. The screws are clearly visible on the locks and latches so you won't even have to bother searching. The bolt locks are complicated as they require drilling the frame to create area to slide the bolt. What types of locks and catches are best for sash windows will depend on the sash window you have and your own preferences.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment