Sash window lock fit in Exeter
Professional sash window lock fit services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-85
Typical Duration
30-45 mins
Location
Exeter, Devon
Sash windows need securing? I'll fit proper locks for security, child safety, or both. Works with original period windows without causing damage - keeps them functional and safe.
The Sash Window Problem
Beautiful original sash windows. Brilliant. But:
- They don't lock properly (or at all)
- Kids could push them open
- Insurance wants locks fitted
- Ground floor ones are a security risk
You want them secure, but you don't want to wreck period features or stop using the windows.
💡 Pro tip: The right sash locks secure your windows without damaging original features. Small brass screws are all it takes.
Types of Sash Locks
🔧 What Works Best
| Lock Type | Best For | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Sash stop | Child safety | Limits opening to 10-15cm for ventilation |
| Dual screw | Security | Locks both sashes together, can't be forced |
| Traditional lock | Period appearance | Looks original, solid security |
| Ventilation lock | Both | Locks in closed OR slightly open position |
I'll recommend what fits your situation after seeing the windows.
What You Get
📦 Full Installation
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Assess windows | Check condition, size, how they open |
| Recommend locks | Right type for security/safety/appearance |
| Fit carefully | Minimal damage, works with window action |
| Test everything | Locks work, windows still open, all secure |
Options:
- Brass fittings for period properties
- White/silver for modern look
- Keyed locks if you want extra security
- Multiple locks per window for large sashes
Pricing Guide
| Job | Time | You'll Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Single window (2 locks) | 30 mins | £60 |
| 2-3 windows | 45 mins | £85 |
| Full house (4-6 windows) | 1.5 hrs | £135 |
Based on £60 minimum (first hour) + £50/hr after. Locks included in most cases - I'll quote if you need fancy ones.
Perfect For Your Property If...
✅ Period sash windows need securing without damage
✅ Young children - need windows safe upstairs
✅ Ground floor security is a concern
✅ Insurance requirement for window locks
✅ Want ventilation but window stuck open is dangerous
Why Choose Us for Sash window lock fit in Exeter?
Windows secure against intruders
Child safety - windows can't open far
Keeps original sash windows functional
Insurance compliant locks available
What to Expect
Step 1: Check Your Windows
I look at how they open, the frame condition, where locks would work best. Measure if needed for child safety height limits.
Step 2: Fit The Locks
Drill pilot holes, screw fittings to the frame and sashes. Positioned so they work smoothly and look right. On period windows I use brass fittings.
Step 3: Test & Adjust
Make sure windows still slide properly, locks engage securely, and you can operate everything easily. Show you how they work.
🔧 DIY Tips
Fancy fitting them yourself? Here's how:
🔧 Tools you'll need
- Drill with small drill bits (2mm and 3mm)
- Screwdriver (Phillips or flat depending on locks)
- Tape measure and pencil
- Spirit level
- The locks (buy based on your window measurements)
📐 Fitting sash stops
- Open bottom sash to desired ventilation height (usually 10-15cm)
- Mark position on window frame where the sash sits
- Screw the stop into the frame at this mark
- Window can now open to this point but no further
- Fit one each side for even security
📐 Fitting dual screws
- Close both sashes fully
- Drill through top rail of bottom sash into bottom rail of top sash
- At an angle so both sashes are penetrated
- Insert the screw - this locks them together
- Fit one each side of the window
⚠️ Common DIY mistakes
- Drilling without pilot holes (wood splits)
- Locks too close to edge (wood cracks under pressure)
- One lock when windows really need two (uneven pressure)
- Not checking window still slides after fitting
💡 Pro trick: Test fit without screwing first. Close the window, hold the lock in position, check it actually lines up when window is fully closed. Saves drilling holes in the wrong place.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🎨 Listed building? Check with conservation officer before fitting locks. Usually fine as they're reversible, but worth confirming. I can advise on sympathetic fittings.
Old paint layers? Common on sash windows in Exeter's older houses. I'll work around them - sometimes means carefully scraping where fittings go so they sit flush.
Windows stick or don't slide properly? Worth getting them serviced at the same time. Fitting locks to windows that barely work isn't much use. I can sort both jobs together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of locks work on sash windows?
Several types - sash stops (limit how far window opens), dual screws (lock both sashes together), and traditional sash locks. I'll recommend what works best for your specific windows based on whether it's security, child safety, or both you're after.
Will fitting locks damage my original sash windows?
Minimal damage - small screw holes only. If you've got listed windows or valuable period features, I use brass fittings that look appropriate and can be removed in future leaving tiny holes that are barely noticeable. No drilling through glass or major modifications.
Can I still open the windows with locks fitted?
Yes - that's the whole point. Sash stops let you lock windows in the closed position or open a few inches for ventilation (great for safety). Dual screws and traditional locks release so you can open windows fully when needed.
Do these locks meet insurance requirements?
Depends what your insurer specifies. I can fit BS7950-compliant locks if that's what you need. Tell me your insurance requirement and I'll make sure you get the right product.
How many locks does each window need?
Usually two per window (one each side) for security, or one for child safety depending on window size. I'll assess when I see them and quote based on what's actually needed, not over-sell you unnecessary locks.
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