Many homeowners are concerned about home security, and there is good reason for this. When criminals enter your home, they may steal or damage your property, and they could could cause injury or worse to your loved ones. Typically, criminals will look for the easiest route into a home, and they may be deterred from entering a home altogether if it appears to be secured well. Click Here for The Bestselling Home Security Products.
With this in mind, it is important to take a closer look at your window locks. By learning more about the types of window locks available and which styles are best for home security, you may be able to improve the security level on your property.
Hinged Wedge Locks
These are a special type of window lock typically used on double hung windows, and they can prevent the window from opening all the way. Essentially, the window can only open to a certain position based on where the hinged wedge locks were installed.
The benefit with this type of window locks when they are properly installed is that the window may be opened a small amount to allow fresh air to circulate into the home, but the window may not open far enough to allow a person to enter the home.
Window Latch Lock
This is the type of window lock that is on most homes’ windows, and it is considered to be a standard type of lock. The locking mechanism is attached to one side of the window, and this is typically the movable side. When the locking mechanism is secured or engaged, the moving section of the window becomes immobile. The locking mechanism can be disengaged when the user simply twists the latch. This is a simple and easy function.
Folding Window Locks
This type of window lock is most closely related to a hinged wedge lock. The locking mechanism is mounted to the top window, and this makes it easy for the lower window to be raised or opened a small amount for air circulation inside the home. When the folding lock is positioned inwardly, the window can be opened fully as desired. In most cases, a homeowner would simply keep the folding window locks in place so that the window can only be opened a small amount.
Keyed Sash Locks
Keyed sash locks are a more secure type of lock, but they can also be burdensome for a homeowner. They are installed on the side of a double-hung window, and the lock is engaged through the use of a key. This means that the homeowner must access the key in order to engage or disengage the lock. This can be time-consuming and tedious for a homeowner, but the extra step associated with using the key to lock and unlock the keyed sash locks can promote improved home security.
Making Your Decision
As a homeowner, it is important that you consider several factors before you decide which type of window locks you want to install on your property. For example, you should think about if you want to enjoy the added security that comes with keyed sash locks or if the additional step of using a physical key to engage and disengage the lock is going to be a nuisance to you.
You should also think about the safety associated with having your windows physically locked in this capacity in the event there is a fire in your home and you need to use the windows to exit the home. In addition, spend a few minutes thinking about how you plan to use the window.
The ability to open the window a small amount without unlocking it may be a convenience feature for you that you want to enjoy. Replacing the window locks on all of your windows can be time-consuming, so keep in mind that even the standard window locks that come installed on most windows are still a great choice for you.
If you are concerned about home security and how your windows pose a security risk for you, you may reach out to a locksmith for more information about the different types of window locks available and for recommendations on locks that may be best suited for your home. The locksmith can also help you to change the window locks on your home if you make the decision to do so.
Additional Resources:
https://brinkshome.com/
https://www.adt.com/home-security
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safety_and_security_window_film
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Security_alarm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_security