Upgrade Your Double Glazing Door Locks
Double glazing windows can help keep burglars at bay and provide peace of mind at your home. They also offer great energy efficiency, keeping drafts out and heat in.
Espagnolette locking systems are the most popular window lock for uPVC doors and work in combination with secure multi-point locks to ensure your home is secure. Cockspur handles have a more traditional appearance and are ideal for older projects or frames that are slimmer.
Restrictive Window Hinges
The hinges on your uPVC window play a vital role to keeping your window closed. If they aren't secured, an intruder could use the leverage of the window to push open your door to gain entry. Replace your hinges that are in use with security hinges that are high-security to ensure that your doors stay securely closed and locked.
Security hinges are available in a variety of sizes and types that suit most uPVC windows. They are simple to install since they don't require any tools or modifications. These hinges have the feature of a friction torque-positioned hinge which can be solid no matter the amount of force it is put through. Intruders will find it much more difficult to take the window from its hinge. They will also be unable tilt the window to gain access to the home.
The hinges that are standard with all new double-glazed windows are constructed of stainless steel and are extremely sturdy. However windows located in vulnerable positions like on the ground floor or higher floors of your home then you might want to change them to security hinges. They are stronger than regular hinges and have specific locking mechanism that prevents windows from being opened by burglars.
When selecting the security hinges for your windows it is important to match the height of your stacks on your old window hinges to the new ones that you are installing. This will ensure that the new hinges will be a perfect fit and give a neat and professional finish to your uPVC windows.
You can also opt to use restricted window friction hinges if you prefer, they come with an inbuilt restrictor to stop the window from opening too much to ensure the safety of children. These are usually fitted to windows for fire escape (egress) and are compliant with the building codes. The hinges can only be opened by a specific distance, and are released by pressing a button. They are sold in pairs and are available in different lengths and stack heights.
High-Security Locks
If you're looking for locks that can make it more difficult to gain entry into your home look into purchasing high-security locks. These locks have extra security features such as extreme pick resistance, bump-proof construction, and keys that aren't duplicated without permission. Although they cost more than standard locks, they can be worth the cost for certain homeowners and businesses.
Medeco, Assa Abloy, and Mul-t-lock are some of the most popular high-security lock brands. These brands are known for quality products and excellent customer service. These locks are made of hardened steel and have extra security features such as patented key bows and sidebars. They also have drill resistance and free-rotating plugs. These locks are typically used in commercial properties however, they can also be found in a variety of homes.
The ability to create keys that open traditional locks is one of the biggest problems burglars face. High-security locks come with special key bows or warding patterns that prevent copying without a keycard or special equipment. They might even contain a pin code that must be entered to activate them. These locks are often used in offices where access is required to secure sensitive areas, such as warehouses, cash counting rooms and rooms for pharmaceutical drugs.
Despite window lock replacement added security of these locks, they're generally not suitable for doors that are open to the elements. Wind, rain and other weather conditions may affect the mechanism of the lock. This makes it easier for burglars to break through the lock.
It is crucial to choose double-glazing doors with reinforced locking points. This will safeguard your home from threats from outside. For instance the uPVC locking system made by SKS is designed to withstand a variety of attacks. It also comes with a number of security features including anti-pick, anti-drill and anti-bump.
In terms of residential security, high-security locks are not always worth the cost. Most burglars gain entry to the house through an unlocked window or sliding glass door backdoor. The addition of a high-security lock is unlikely to stop these types of crimes, since the perpetrators will discover a different way to enter. If you have something valuable in your home that needs to be secured the security of a high-security lock is well worth the cost.
Anti-Crowbar Finishing
Designed to a recongised insurance standard, this security lock is made of 20mm steel bars that are fixed and rotated to deter attack from hacksaws and other tools. It's powder coated polyester with a variety of colors to provide a durable finish that is compatible with any design. It's also a cost-effective solution as there aren't any electrical issues to worry about and planning permission is typically not required.
Espagnolette locking system is a popular choice for modern uPVC window frames. It works in conjunction with multi-point locks which are set around the frame and lock into the handle. They are also available with cockspur handles to suit traditional and heritage projects. They are tested to highest standards, including the SS312 Diamond as well as Kitemarked to TS007 3 Star to protect against lock snapping.
Easy To Maintain
Modern uPVC windows and doors are extremely durable, but require some maintenance. The hinges and locks must be cleaned regularly. Grime and dirt can build up over time, causing damage to the lock. This could make it difficult for the lock to function correctly and expose your home to burglars.
Fortunately, maintaining and cleaning your door's locks is a breeze. Use a mild detergent or dampened cloth to get rid of dirt from the hinges and locks. If a stubborn stain is persistent an expert cream-based uPVC cleaner might be needed.
In addition to cleaning your locks, your hinges and locks must be lubricated regularly every now and then. Utilizing a silicon spray made to do this can ensure that lock mechanisms function effectively and lessen the corrosion caused by salt in the air. After lubricating the hinges and lock with lubricant, gently pull them or push them a few times. This will ensure that the lubricant is fully absorbed into the mechanism.
You should never force a lock or hinge to close or open, as this will significantly increase the stress on the mechanism and cause it to wear out prematurely. If you have trouble opening or closing your door or window, it is likely that the locking mechanism has been incorrectly aligned. You should consult a locksmith as soon as you can to determine the cause.
Installing a replacement deadbolt will prevent burglars from gaining entry into your home through windows. These bolts drive into the frame of the door and are not able to be removed from the outside, offering an extra layer of security.
Double Glazing Quoter can help you upgrade your current uPVC windows with locks that are high-security. Contact us now. Our online quote builder can give instant quotes for various front door designs and locking options including high-security doors. The cost estimates will help you determine which best option is suitable for your home. If you're planning to install a new uPVC double glazed door, our guide prices will give you an idea of the amount you can expect to pay for the perfect design to meet your budget.