What Are Window Latches Made Of?
What Are Window Latches Made Of?
Window latches are made of brass, bronze, or stainless steel. Many modern windows include a tough plastic latch, but that doesn’t mean it has to be replaced with the same type. Other choices include iron, plastic, and even wood.
Brass and bronze latches are the strongest of the choices and are good for use on single or double-hung windows. Stainless steel is best used on windows that have aluminum frames because it will not corrode over time like brass or bronze latches would when exposed to moisture.
Other metal options include iron, which can be found in decorative pieces as well as door hardware, and plastic latches made from polypropylene and polycarbonate. Sometimes a brass latch is preferable, as it will allow your window to weather the elements better. They are decorative and serve their purpose well, but they are not necessarily made to last a lifetime.
Window latches can be purchased in different sizes depending on the size of your window frame. You may opt for simply going with the same type that is included with your windows or you can choose to make modifications to fit your own needs.
The most common modifications include replacing the circular part of the latch for a channel that suits your needs and covers more of the frame around the window, reducing unnecessary stress on other parts of the window frame.
There are also wood options to consider which you can choose from a number of different materials including hardwood, softwood (such as pine), cedar, cypress, mahogany, oak, ash, birch, and cherry.
Each wood option will require special care and cleaning. Also, before you replace your window latch with a wooden one, be aware that some woods like mahogany and cherry aren’t very resistant to moisture.
What Are Window Latches Called?
Window latches are called Window pin locks. Window pin locks work similarly to chain locks on doors. One end of the lock is attached to the sash, while the other is attached to the frame. The components are linked by a cable or chain, which prevents the window from opening completely.
Window pin locks are simple to install, but the two ends must be joined with a drill. Also, a different type of anchor needs to be used for each window. Window latches can be attached to windows without the use of a drill.
Most window latches are made with a quick-release system where the latch can be easily locked on and unlocked, allowing the window to open and close as normal when it is desired. Some types attach with screws or nails instead of cables, which may prevent them from opening or closing at all when installed incorrectly.
Plastic pin locks are also a good choice. When you choose a metal lock, be sure to purchase stainless steel. Non-rusting metal is best, as it allows you to leave your window open while it rains. With a plastic lock, you won’t have to worry about rust or water collecting in the chain and ruining your home’s interior.
Most types of window latch locks can be purchased at home improvement stores and hardware stores. Some of these types of locks include additional features that add an extra layer of protection against burglary.
Some locks allow you to set a code so that no one other than family members can open the window. Others come with keyed latches so that you can lock them in place if necessary.
How Do Casement Window Latches Work?
Casement window frames have folding locks embedded in them. When folded locks are turned down, the sashes are locked; when turned up, the lock is released. Folding locks are the standard mechanism that comes with casement windows.
They work similarly to those on storm windows. Older windows may have prominent locks that keep the sash in place. The latches on casement windows are important to keep the window operable.
They serve as a way to keep the panel from accidentally opening while you’re trying to close it, and they also help keep the window closed when it’s windy outside. Casement windows are also easier to open than others because the sash doesn’t have to be pulled up.
Locks on casement windows have advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include being simple to operate and easy to lock. When you’re setting your window for the day, you simply turn the sash down until it locks into place.
Most casement windows have two latches, one at the top and one at the bottom. The latches at the bottom are designed to stay open when you push on them from the inside, but the latches at the top are designed to stay closed when you pull on them from the outside.
To open a casement window, you first need to unlock the latches at the bottom. Then, you can pull the panel open until it’s fully open. You can then close the panel by locking the latches at the top.
It’s important to remember to unlock the latches at the bottom before you open the window, and to lock the latches at the top after you close it. Otherwise, the window could accidentally open while you’re trying to close it, or it could open in the wind.
