A window latch is a standard lock found on double and single hung windows. This simple mechanism connects the two sashes of the window and prevents either from moving.
Window sash locks and keepers are located on the top rail of the sash. The lock is located on the moveable sash and the keeper is located on the opposite side. Locks and keepers are essential to keeping your home secured. The are almost always made of metal and are fairly easy to replace.
You're likely familiar with window latches. They are located on the top of the window sash and latch the two parts of a window together when the window is closed. These work with single and double hung windows. You simply turn the handle on the latch to lock or unlock the window.
Swing the lock lever to the "Unlock" position. Sometimes this type of lock features a picture of an opened padlock near the "Unlock" position, and a closed padlock near the "Lock" position. Slide the window open by pushing the sash in the appropriate direction.
Can this be fixed? A. The broken sash latches can probably be replaced. There are several types of latches, but in most cases it's possible to restore the latching action by installing simple surface-mounted latches (your windows might already have this type).
There are essentially two main causes of windows that refuse to stay up. One possibility is that the one, or both, balances of the window have become disconnected from the sash. Another possibility is that the balances are connected but aren't working properly.
Even if this is the case, it's possible to simply replace the lock itself, without having to replace the whole window unit. There are a wide range of hints and tips to help you when it comes to replacing window locks and handles, and it's often a case of simply following the instructions.
Sliding Window Locks
Using just one per window will do the job perfectly, but since they're so inexpensive, you could just as easily double up and use two for extra security. Installation could hardly be easier, and you can have them in place quickly and easily after following three simple steps.
Key-operated locks are perhaps the most secure way to protect sliding windows, and they'll work with vertical sliding windows, too. Mark the lock's position on the windowsill with the sash fully closed, and drill a bolt hole in the sill at that location.
These sash window locks bolt through the top and bottom sash to stop the window from opening. The bolt can be removed with the key that will come included with the lock and this will allow the window to be opened. Dual screws lock the sashes into place and avoid any sliding, even if the fastener is compromised.
The sash is the moveable part of a window made up of the vertical and horizontal frame that holds the glass. On a double-hung window, the check rail is the part where the bottom part of the upper sash and the upper part of the lower sash come in contact.
Parts of a Vinyl Window Frame
The top of the window frame is called the head while the sides are called the jambs. The bottom of the window frame is known as the sill. The stool is the board that runs perpendicular to the rest of your window – it creates a little ledge at the bottom.
An operating arm is attached to both the window frame and the sash on casement, awning, and hopper windows. It is the mechanism that works in conjunction with an operating handle to open and close a sash. It also holds a sash in position when open.
A dropped window is an indicator of a bad, disconnected, or misplaced balance shoe. Each double-hung window in your home has four balance cartridges, two per jamb liner. If one of the balance shoes inside isn't working properly, the sash will slide down when you attempt to raise it.
Use a Prop Stick When Window Won't Stay Up
It's an old-time solution for a window that won't stay open. It fits between the window frame and window sill to hold the window up. The stepped design allows the window to be opened at different heights. I love the simple design of that antique window prop stick.
Lubricate the Sticking Window
Purchase a silicone-based lubricant at a local home improvement store. Spray the lubricant onto a dry cloth and wipe along the inside and outside window tracks, jamb liner, and weatherstripping. Open and close the window several times to distribute the lubricant evenly.
Tilt Latches are plastic latches on single or double hung windows that allow for the sash to be tilted in. They use a spring to push a plastic wedge shaped tongue into the side channels of your window. When engaged, they prevent the sash from tilting in.
Grab the pull rail on the bottom of the inside sash. Slide it up toward the top of the window. If your window is a double hung, the other (outside) panel or sash can also be opened in the same manner, but it will slide in the opposite direction, from top to bottom.
Sliding windows are designated by which side opens, as viewed from the outside. "X" is used to designate the sliding portion of the window, and "O" for the fixed portion. Therefore an "X-O" window - the most common - will have the left side operable and the right side fixed.
How Does a Sliding Window Work? A sliding window consists of one fixed pane along with a sliding sash that glides back and forth. They move along a horizontal track fitted inside the window frame itself to open and close. You push the sliding window to the left or the right to use it.