Step By Step Guide Too.. Fitting Locks On Upvc Windows

May 11 2008 Donny Sheridan

All windows are vulnerable to being forced allowing an intruder easy access to your home.

So it's a good idea to boost home security by fitting extra locks on the windows where they can be easily seen to help deter would-be burglars.

The most vulnerable windows are at the back of your house where an intruder can gain entry with less chance of being disturbed and I'd always advise adding locks to these secluded rear windows.

All types of windows are targeted by the bad guys.

Timber windows and uPVC frames can both be forced open and should be reinforced.

The key is to choose the right lock for your type of window, be it timber casement windows or uPVC doubleglazing, they all have speciality locks to protect their weaker points. Most people can cope with fitting locks to timber windows as it's easy to screw into wood but when it comes to uPVC windows people are more reluctant to work on them.

However it is just as easy to fit a lock on a uPVC window.

It's just a case of using the correct screws for the job and with a little bit of know-how you can give yourself piece of mind that your windows are secure.

1 Choose the correct position for the lock by shutting the window and turning the finger of the lock to the closed position.

Place the body of the lock on the outward opening window frame and make sure the finger fits over the fixed frame.

2 Mark round the lock with a pencil and mark where the screw holes will be needed.

3 Using a 1.5mm drill bit carefully drill into the outward opening frame to form a guide hole for the screws.

Once you drill through the inner wall of the frame you will feel the resistance stop and the drill will turn freely.

4 Use ONLY self-drilling, twin thread window screws for uPVC window frames, These screws are easily identified by the flat thread at the bottom of the screw.

5 Turn the finger of the lock to the locking position and use the self-drilling screws to fix the lock to the frame.

Don't tighten fully until both screws are secured into the frame.

Then give the screws their final tighten.

6 To conceal the screwheads push the screw cover over the screws until it clicks into position. The cover can be popped out if you ever need to remove the lock.

7 Sometimes the finger of the lock is not tight to the window frame. If this is the case select the correct thickness of plastic pad which slots into the hole on the back of the finger.

This will ensure the finger fits tightly to the window frame.

Top Tip: For large windows fit two locks - one at the top and one at the bottom. For smaller windows put it in the middle.

Here's what you'll need..

Tools

Drill bit (1.5mm)

Drill

Screwdriver

Pencil

Materials

Window lock (suitable for uPVC frames)

Screws