Sash windows offer a timeless, elegant aesthetic for your home, but their basic locking mechanisms can often lack the same robust security as casement windows. This means that young children can easily open sash windows, which poses obvious safety risks around the home. To avoid accidental openings and potential falls, it’s a good idea to install high-quality sash window locks and sash window restrictors, especially on upper-storey windows in your home.
Of course, with a seemingly endless selection of window locks for sash windows available, finding the right locks for upper-floor safety is easier said than done. To help find the ideal locking sash window locks for your home, we’ve had a chat with the experts at Locks & Handles. As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of sash window restrictors and window locks, L&H have recommended some of the best products for childproofing your upper-storey sash windows to keep your little ones safe.
The Importance of Sash Window Restrictors and Window Locks for Upper Storey Safety
Sash windows, while unquestionably attractive, don’t always come with the best locking devices. These basic locks help to maintain the regal appearance of these elegant window styles, but can unfortunately be easily opened, especially for children. Because the sash window usually doesn’t require too much force to open, it’s surprisingly easy for kids to open them unnoticed, posing obvious safety risks.
The child may not even be trying to open or climb through the window, as even sitting near or leaning on sash windows could result in a significant injury. Maybe you’ve left the window partially open for a source of fresh air. If so, a curious child may accidentally hurt themselves from a fall or a window jam by simply sitting too close or playing near the window. It’s difficult to restrict the opening of a sash window without a bespoke restrictor or lock, so many parents are unaware of the risks their child could face by simply leaving a window open.
These risks become even more dangerous for sash windows on upper storeys, where an accidental fall could cause a major injury or even death. So, homeowners with young children must always consider installing new sash window locks and sash window restrictors to mitigate these safety risks. With suitable locks installed, you can prevent young children from opening the windows and potentially injuring themselves from falls or jams. You can also leave the windows partially opened for ventilation without needing to keep a constant eye on your child.
Restrictors That Limit Openings Safely
When it comes to childproofing your upper-storey sash windows, sash window restrictors are an outstanding choice. These spring-loaded, key-operated devices are installed into the upper window sash to prevent the lower sash from moving past a certain point. Sash window restrictors allow you to keep the window partially opened, usually around 100mm wide, so you can ventilate the room without the risk of anyone climbing through the window. They couldn’t be easier to install and will not only prevent children from climbing out of windows but also stop criminals from climbing inside.
Locking sash window locks are also an excellent option for childproofing your upper-storey sash windows. Because most standard sash window locks are just a basic fastener, upgrading to a locking sash window lock can help to prevent accidental openings. These sash locks for windows are key-operated, allowing parents to secure the windows closed or open for ventilation. Because the locks can only be used with a key, even the most adventurous child will struggle to force them all the way open.
There are multiple types of locking sash window locks available, any of which may be ideal for your needs. Lockable fitch fasteners and Brighton locks are both great picks for increasing upper-floor safety at your sash windows, as they feature robust locking devices that can be secured in place with a key to prevent kids from accessing your windows.
Final Thoughts
As parents, sometimes you need to protect your children from themselves, which is why you should always consider childproofing your upper-storey sash windows. With sash window restrictors and sash window locks, you can ensure that your children will not open windows and injure themselves. These sash locks for windows also allow windows to remain partially open for fresh air without the risk of your kids climbing through.
