Upgrade Your Double Glazing Door Locks
Double glazing windows are a great way to keep burglars out and provide peace of mind inside your home. They also provide excellent energy efficiency that keeps draughts out and heat in.
Espagnolette locking systems are the most common window lock for uPVC doors. They work conjunction with secure multi-point locks to ensure your home is secure. Cockspur handles are more traditional and are ideal for older projects or slimmer frames.
Restrictive Window Hinges
The hinges of your uPVC windows play a vital part in keeping your window closed and secure. If they're not secured, an intruder could leverage the strength of the window to push open your door to gain entry. One of the most effective ways to ensure that your doors stay firmly shut and locked is to upgrade your existing hinges to more secure hinges.
Security hinges are available in a range of sizes and types that fit the majority of uPVC windows. They are also easy to install, as they do not require any modifications or tools. The most important security features of these hinges comprise the use of a specific kind of friction torque-positioned hinge that can remain stable regardless of how much force is applied to it. Intruders will find it more difficult to remove the window from its hinge. They are also unable to tilt the window to gain access to the home.
The hinges that are standard with most new double glazing are constructed of stainless steel and are extremely durable. However windows located in vulnerable positions such as on ground floor or on the upper floors of your home then you might want to change the hinges to security hinges. They are stronger than standard hinges and have specific locking mechanism that prevents windows from being opened by intruders.
It is crucial to match the stack height between your old window hinges and the new ones when choosing security hinges. This will ensure that the new hinges fit perfectly and provide an elegant and professional look to your uPVC windows.
If you'd prefer, you can also install restricted window friction hinges. They come with a built-in restrictor that prevents the window from opening too much. This is to ensure the safety of children. They are usually fitted to fire escape (egress) windows and are in compliance with the building regulations. The hinges only open up to a specific distance and can be shut by pressing the button. They are sold in pairs and are available in different lengths and stack heights.
High-Security Locks
You should consider investing in high-security locks if you want to make it harder for someone to break into your home. replace upvc window lock Repair My Windows And Doors have additional security features, such as extreme pick resistance and bump proof construction, as well as keys that cannot be duplicated without authorization. Although they are more expensive than standard locks, some homeowners and business owners might consider them worthwhile.
Medeco, Assa Abloy, and Mul-t-lock are among the most well-known high-security lock brands. These brands are well-known for their high-quality products and exceptional service. The locks are made of hardened steel and come with additional security features like patented key bows, sidebars drill resistance and face plugs that are free-rotating. They are most commonly used in commercial buildings, but they can also be found in homes.
One of the biggest problems that burglars face with traditional locks is their ability to make a key that will unlock them. High-security locks have special key bows or warding patterns to stop copying without a keycard or special equipment. They might even include a pin code that needs to be entered to activate them. These locks are utilized in the workplace to secure sensitive areas like cash counting rooms, pharmaceutical drug rooms and warehouses.
These locks are not recommended for doors that are susceptible to weather. Rain, wind, and other weather conditions may cause damage to the lock mechanism. This makes it easier for criminals to break through the lock.
This is why it's essential to purchase a good quality double-glazed door that has reinforced locking points to ensure your home is safe from attack from the outside. SKS's uPVC locking systems, for example are designed to withstand a wide range of attacks. They also have a number security features, like anti-picking, anti drilling and anti-bump.
For security in the home high-security locks aren't always worth the investment. The majority of burglars gain entry to homes through windows, sliding door or backdoor that's left unlocked. The addition of a security lock isn't likely to stop these types of crimes, since the perpetrators will discover a different way to enter. If you have something particularly valuable within your home that requires protecting, a high-security lock is worth the investment.
Anti-Crowbar Finishing
Designed to a recongised insurance standard, this security lock features 20mm steel bars, which are fixed and rotated to deter attack from hacksaws and other tools. It's coated with polyester powder with a range of colours to give it a durable finish that is compatible with any decor. It's also a budget-friendly solution as there are no electrical problems to worry about and planning permission is generally not required.
Espagnolette locking systems are a common choice for modern uPVC windows and work in harmony with multi-point locks that are secure and positioned throughout the frame to lock the handle in place. These are also available with cockspur handles to suit traditional and historic projects. These are tested to the highest standards including SS312 Diamond and Kitemarked to the TS007 3 Star standard to guard against snapping locks.
Easy to Maintain
Modern uPVC doors and windows are extremely durable, but require some maintenance. The hinges and locks must be cleaned frequently. If you don't do this, grime and dirt will build up which could cause damage in the long run. This can make it harder for the lock to operate effectively and make your home vulnerable to burglars.
Cleaning and maintaining the locks on your door is simple. Use mild detergent or a dampened cloth to clean dirt from the hinges and lock. If a stain is persistent an expert cream-based uPVC cleaner might be needed.
In addition to cleaning your locks, your hinges and locks should also be lubricated periodically. Utilizing a silicon spray made to do this can help ensure that the mechanism functions effectively and lessen the corrosion caused by the salt in the air. After lubricating both the hinges and lock with oil, gently pull them or push them several times. This will ensure that the lubricant is fully absorbed into the mechanism.
If you are having trouble opening or closing your window or door it is likely that the locking mechanism has become misaligned. It is recommended that you have a locksmith check this as soon as possible. If you experience difficulty opening or closing your door or window, it is likely that the locking mechanism has become unbalanced. It is recommended to contact a locksmith as soon as you can to determine the cause.
To prevent burglars from getting access through your window you should consider installing a deadbolt from an aftermarket. The bolts will be inserted into the door's frame and cannot be removed from the outside, providing an additional layer of security.
If you're interested in upgrading your existing uPVC double glazing with high-security locks Contact Double Glazing Quoter today. Our online quote maker can give instant quotes for various front door designs and locking options, including high-security doors. The costs will help you determine which best fits your home. If you're planning to install a new uPVC double-glazed door our price guide will give you an idea of how much you'll pay for the ideal design to meet your budget.