Monday, January 9, 2012

Some Simple Sash Window Security Solutions

By Julian Burgess


There are several sash window security solutions to consider when upgrading existing home safety systems. While replacing the entire glass units with more updated materials is an option, many experts discourage it. The original designs help keep the home's historic heritage intact. Maintaining this unique characteristic also sustains the value of the building.

Becoming popular in mid-1600s England, these alternatives to casements provided more benefits. Rather than swinging open into often cold, rainy or snowy weather, these improved designs slid vertically, sometimes horizontally. This allowed homeowners to create smaller vents during inclement weather, wider openings during warm days and nights. This design feature became very popular in the Northeast and South during the United States' colonial days.

When consulting experts for home insurance advice, safety upgrades are among their top recommendations. If possible, the installation of double or triple-paned windows is encouraged. They have air-tight spaces encased between panes. They provide more safety, and better insulation.

There are a wide range of effective locks on the market today. Bolted units are one of the top choices. They are easily installed, and are available in a diversity of models, including antique styles. When tightened, they secure the panels in closed positions.

The stops provide more flexibility, utilizing a pegged structure. Set-up includes drilling small holes in parallel strips along the stationary panels. When the pegs are inserted into the holes, they create a stop point, preventing panels from sliding any further. They can be positioned to prevent any opening, or moved into alternative slots to create smaller or wider openings.

A convenient, affordable back-up option are flip-locks. Easily installed with screws, they have a tab which can be flipped down to secure the moveable panel. To open the window, simply flip the tab up.

The traditional key locks come in a variety of models which would also be effective. Installation can be simple, and they operate only with a key. There are a variety of vintage and modern styles from which to choose.

The easiest to set-up require no hardware. Home insurance advice experts suggest using this grip-type as a supplemental system, not the sole unit.

As buildings age, it's important to maintain sash window security solutions. Some owners opt for combination systems, such as keyed and pegged. Others choose models which match the original, vintage hardware, and supplement with alarms. When making the decisions about safety enhancements, it's good to retain as many of the original architectural elements as possible.




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