Window locks are extremely important as windows offer an easy way for a criminal to enter your home. After finding the main door locked, most burglars will go straight to the windows to break in. And let’s be truthful, even for inexpert burglars, breaking in through an unlocked or poorly locked window is a matter of a few seconds only.
The good news is that you can hugely improve your windows’ security with even inexpensive but properly installed locks.
What Style of Windows Do You Have?
When you decide that it is time to swap or upgrade the locks on your windows, you’ll have to first check what types of windows you have so you can purchase the right type of locks. This might seem evident, but we’ve seen the security of residential and business properties compromised just because of incompatible windows and locks. Here we have a quick look at various styles of windows.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are quite easy to use and offer convenience to open and close. That being said, these windows need to be strongly locked to keep the house safe from burglars. Sliding windows often use a thumbscrew or a lever to activate or deactivate their locking mechanism.
Awning (Hopper) Windows
Awning windows open towards the outside and are dangled from the top. This windows style is very popular due to various lock options that can be perfectly matched. The range of locking options for awning windows ranges from winders, bolts, fasteners, and push locks.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are operated with a crank stand which makes them stand apart from other windows styles. Casement windows offer a crank adjustment option as well so that that window can only be opened to a certain point. The rigid and manual operation makes casement windows a secure option.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are quite common these days. Opening from the bottom, they slide upwards. Some styles can be opened from the top as well. Old fashioned double-hung windows often lack suitable locks, so modern locks should be installed to make them hard to break in for burglars.
Choosing the Right Lock for Your Windows
Not every lock will fit onto your window. Rather each style requires a specific type of lock that will work best.
It is important to find and install the right locks on windows to enhance your security, as an imperfect match between the two will ease the job of burglars. Let’s have a look at which lock will best suit your specific window style.
Sash Locks
Sash locks make a perfect match on double-hung windows. These locks consist of two pieces. The crescent-shaped piece turns to enter or exit a similar-looking housing piece. Made of metal, sash locks have a relatively expanded area of contact for the two parts of the latch, which makes them fairly great to secure your double-hung windows.
Keyed Locks
Keyed locks can be fixed onto several types of windows. They provide an enormously secure option and need a key to unlock them. Burglars hate Keyed locks as they are very difficult to break in. This type of lock is generally installed onto the lower part of the window and secured to the frame.
Window Bars
Window bars are very effective at deterring crimes. Even if burglars manage to break the glass, they will still have to put in a lot of effort and time removing the bars to move through the window itself. However, window bars must be installed by a qualified professional. Improper installation of the window bar can cause harm to the outer wall or simply play no role in keeping the bulgers out.
There are various makes and models of locks out there for each window style. If you need further assistance with choosing the best locks for your windows, reach out to us at (818) 306-4687.