Window Security Locks

Glass can be broken of course, but most burglars don't want to do that - the sound of breaking glass draws unwanted attention. Also, breaking a window involves risking cuts and the intruder knows that DNA testing can identify him as the perpetrator.

Many burglaries involve the thief gaining entry through the window, some sources estimate as high as thirty percent Amazingly, this is often through a window that has been left open or unsecured.

Most older windows do not have window security locks, often they do not have locks at all but are fitted with catches, or latches, which offer little protection against even the most amateur of burglars.

As with most other types of security, locks for windows offer the most protection when they are a visible deterrent. Locks that can easily be seen from the outside may make some housebreakers think twice about trying to gain entry through the window.

A lock that cannot be seen may cause the thief to severely damage the window before realizing that he can't get in.

Take a good look at all of your windows, try and think like a burglar. Are all of your windows secure?

Don't neglect windows that are above ground level, could they be reached by climbing onto the roof of your garage or by using a ladder carelessly left in a neighbor's garden? Do they have poor locks, or flimsy catches, would they be improved by fitting window security locks?

Are the windows themselves in good condition or are they weak through age, or beginning to rot? Are the hinges beginning to rust?

Small windows such as skylights or fanlights should not escape your attention. Intruders do not need very large openings to crawl through and it has been known for them to use young children as accomplices, and send them through the window.

Think about iron grilles for windows that are particularly vulnerable. These security grilles are available with decorative styling, although if the window is say, at the back of the house and not overlooked by neighbors or passers by (in others words, ideal for the burglar) the spoiling of the look of your property is not so much of a concern.

Be aware of the need for escape routes in the case of fire. Any security grilles that you fit may have to comply with local fire code requirements and be designed for inside release.

The central catches that are found on older wooden sash windows are not in any way secure. Locking versions of these catches, often described as sash window security locks, are available.

It is recommended that these are fitted in pairs.

Better yet, are sash stops. These are robust, easy to use and can be positioned so the window can be left open a few inches for ventilation.

A steel bolt, secured by a key, is engaged through the inner and outer frames, and prevents the window from passing the stop. A stop should be fitted each side of the window.

Tilting and sliding type slash windows are best fitted with both central locking catches and sash stops.

Louver (Louvre) windows were once thought to be quite stylish. However, it was soon realized just how vulnerable these windows are, the slats of glass can be slid out in seconds. The best thing is to replace the louvers with solid glass or with another type of ventilating window. If for some reason this is not possible, use a two part epoxy resin to glue the louvers in place and fit a special louver lock.

Casement windows are usually hinged on one side and fastened to the frame at the other side by a latch or a lever. Window security locks in the form of key locking bolts can be fitted and will provide greater protection than handles or latches.

Horizontal sliding windows. Modern sliding windows are often supplied with multiple point locking systems fitted as standard. If your sliding windows are fitted with latches consider fitting sash stops for added security. If this is not possible clamps are available that clamp the slider to the frame. Ensure that the windows cannot be lifted out of the frame.

Awning windows are similar to casement windows except they swing upwards instead of outwards. Many are fitted with winders to ease opening and closing. Some awning winders are locking, if they are not, or for additional security, awning window security locks can be fitted to aluminum and timber frame windows.

Always remove keys from window locks and keep the keys in a place where you can easily get them in an emergency, but out of sight of the window.

Always ensure that your windows are locked before you leave your home.

These days window security locks are not expensive and most are easy to fit. Make life difficult for the intruder and give yourself peace of mind.

Window Security Locks from Amazon.com

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