There are a number of different methods available for you to protect your house from burglars entering this way. Whether you have sash windows or casement windows there is a product to suit.

In this post we will attempt to look at the basic locks and fittings used on many wooden windows. Many UPVC (and some wooden) windows use espagnolette (multi-point) locks, which we sell along with their accessories, but we do not offer for online purchase due to the technical nature of these products. If you would like information on these please contact us directly.

Sash Window Locks and Security

With most sash windows there will already be a fastening device and on upper floor  windows this should be sufficient in securing the window. However with windows on lower and ground floors additional security should definitely be considered. Some sash fasteners offer a lockable feature which when the window is fastened shut it can then be locked in place with a key and then the key removed and stored in a safe place out of sight.

Bramah Rola Locks

One way to increase the security on a sash window is to attach a rola lock. Rola locks can be used to stop the window from sliding up and opening at all, therefore reducing the ability of anyone forcing it open and climbing in. Furthermore they can also allow ventilation without the threat of intruders by enabling the window to only open a fraction. In addition if two rola locks are fitted at different heights the window can be locked fully closed or locked open a small amount to allow ventilation. The locks are both easy to fit and use a separate key for added security, which also satisfies most insurance requirements on domestc properties.

Casement Window Locks

For casement windows there are a number of security options. Perhaps the most subtle and cost effective is to use window fittings which have a lockable function. We supply both casement fasteners and casement stays which can be locked in position and use a separate key which can be removed and kept safe and out of sight.

Lockable Casement Window Fittings

If replacing existing window fittings is not a viable option then there are a number of different window locks which can be applied to the window for additional security. Both Chubb and Yale have a range of window locks but perhaps the most popular are the Yale ventilation lock and the Chubb 8K101 window lock. The Yale lock can be either locked when the window is shut or can be locked in place when the window is opened to allow ventilation, this is also advantageous if you have children as the window opening is restricted. The Chubb window lock fixes onto the window section and is locked around the frame fixed staple by a key. This lock is also suited to more narrow window frames.

Window Bolt, Chubb 8K101 and Yale P117 Casement Window Locks

One other method to increase window security is to use a ‘rack style’ window bolt which is morticed into the window section and shoots a bolt, through turning a key, into the frame thus locking it in place, once again the key can and should be removed and kept out of sight in a safe place.

All of the window locks mentioned are an excellent way to not only deter potential burglars but will offer a high level of protection against anyone attempting to force open a window. Furthermore all are seen as very effective in the eyes of most insurance companies. All of the products are available from our website and other options are also available at our Ascot showroom.

As with all of our security products, if you are unclear of your requirements or would just like some advice, we have a team of staff eager to help you if you give us a ring or drop us a email.

Casement Window Fittings

Casement style windows are wood or metal framed windows that are vertically (sometimes horizontally) hinged and operate much like a door.

A Casement Style Window

They generally use a fastener to secure the window shut and a stay which enables the window to be secured open to various degrees.

If you wish to modernise your windows there are a number of options available.  Many modern casement window fittings are sleek, stylish and come in a range of contemporary finishes such as Stainless Steel, Chrome, Satin Chrome and Satin Nickel. If none of the more modern styles are to your taste, many of the more traditional designs of casement fittings are available in chrome and satin chrome.

If you are looking at more traditional styles and finishes then we offer a range of period style fittings to compliment your chosen style. Furthermore we also have a range of Black Antique casement window fittings which epitomise a more traditional and rural ambience. In addition to both of these more traditional finishes, we are also able to offer various high quality bronze, antique brass and satin brass finish window products, please contact us for more information, either by email or phoning freephone 0800 027 2470.  You can also leave a comment at the bottom of this article if you have a question which may benefit others.

Some modern styles of casement window feature multi point or espagnolette locks. We are able to supply these, however they are much more technically involved due to various lock configurations and spindle sizes so therefore we are only able to offer a small selection on our site. If you require more information or details of our full range please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sash Window Fittings

Sash Windows consist of two sashes (frames) which slide vertically up and down to open. This style of window was popular in Victorian and Georgian times and can be seen on many properties of these periods, as well as modern properties recognising the aesthetic and functional qualities of this style. Many parts of the USA and other countries colonised by the British retain this style of window as the standard.

A Sash Window

Sash windows are usually secured using a Sash Fastener of which there are several styles, such as the Fitch Pattern, Quadrant Arm and Brighton Fastener, all pictured below.

Fitch, Quadrant Arm and Brighton Sash Fasteners

The other main architectural fitting used on a sash window is a Sash Lift which aids the user in lifting the sash window open. These again are available in a number of different designs depending on your preference.

Other fittings include sash stops, screws and various locks which are all available from our shop if you give us a call with your requirement.

As well as the basic fittings we also offer other accessories for use with both style of window such as fan light catches and axle pulleys.

If you have any questions or would like assistance in choosing your window furniture, please get in touch with us via the site or by telephone and we would be happy to help.