How to fit a window lock   

Securing your home from a possible break-in is an excellent idea. A window without lock is a tempting morsel for burglars, while a locked window will make the toe-rag think twice before attempting a break-in. Fitting locks to your windows is rather an easy job and just requires a small number of tools.

Here are step by step guides to fitting different types of window locks.

The Casement Window Lock

1. Parts of a casement window lock include a striking plate and a locking body. Shut the window and mark the location of the two parts using a pencil
2. Mark the points where the striking plate will sit on the window frame and the locking body on the casement using a tool with a blade that will make indentation on wood
3. Drill pilot holes for the two parts to avoid splitting the wood and then fix the locking body in position using the screws
4. Do the same thing with the striking plate
5. Check that the two parts are fastened and secured and test their alignment. Change position if they are not aligned properly
6. Finally, check the lock to see that it works with the key

The Casement Stay Lock

1. Casement stay locks are typically seen on hinged windows. It is fitted at the bottom of the stay and the stay pin provides the lock
2. Unscrew and take out an existing stay pin. Others install a couple of locking pins for added security but one is usually enough
3. Verify the location of the new pin. Use a pencil or bradawl to mark the new fixing points through the lock’s holes
4. Fill up any old holes and smoothen the affected area with sandpaper
5. Direct drill holes and use the screws to secure the stay pins in position. Be careful not to damage the wood when doing this task
6. Lower the stay into the new pins and lock the window stay into position by placing the locking nut
7. The locking nut is driven with the key provided by the lock maker

The UPVC Window Fastener

1. First thing to do is to remove any existing window fastener from the UPVC window
2. Use a screwdriver with flat tip to open the caps covering the fixing screws
3. The old window fastener is usually secured by screws on each side. To remove the fastener from its present location, detach the two screws holding it
4. Match up the span of the old fastener’s locking bar with the new locking bar
5. If the new locking bar is longer than the old one, cut it down with a hacksaw to match the length of the old locking bar
6. Test the new fastener if it goes well into the holes of the window frame
8. Use sandpaper or file to polish the locking bar’s uneven edges
9. Fix the retaining screws to finally secure the new fastener into place
11. Put the caps on the screw head and lock your windows

The Press Bolt Lock

1. A press bolt lock is composed of a lock body and a catching plate
2. It is locked by pushing the bolt into position and opened using a key
3. Close the window and position the lock body on the exposed edge of the window frame’s inner side
4. Place the catching plate on the external frame and position it so that it will connect straight with the lock body. Drill holes
5. Fix the lock body and catching plate with the screws that comes with the lock
6. The window now is locked by pushing down the bolt in place, and opened by using the key supplied by the manufacturer

Sounds like too much trouble. Call Serviceteam. We fit new locks in London.

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