Window Locks Guide: Securing Every Window Type at Home

Windows are one of the most common ways into a home, and one of the most overlooked. Many houses around Burwood East have sturdy front door locks but windows held shut by nothing more than a simple catch. This guide covers the window types you are likely to have, the locks that suit each one, and how to balance security with fresh air and safe exits.

Why windows matter

Burglars look for the quickest, quietest way in. A window held only by a basic catch can sometimes be opened from outside with little noise. A keyed window lock changes that: the window cannot be opened without breaking the glass, which is noisy, risky and something most intruders avoid.

The windows most at risk are:

• Ground-floor windows at the back and sides of the house.
• Windows hidden from the street by fences or plants.
• Windows near a flat roof, carport or fence that makes climbing easy.
• Windows left open for ventilation.

Window types and the locks that suit them

Aluminium sliding windows

Very common in houses built from the 1970s onwards. The standard catch is often weak. Options include:

• A keyed sliding window lock that clamps the sliding sash to the frame.
• A keyed bolt that pins the sash.
• Anti-lift blocks in the top track so the sash cannot be lifted out.

Awning windows

Awning windows open outwards from the bottom using a winder. They are common in newer townhouses. Keyed locks fit to the winder or the sash. Restrictors limit how far they open.

Casement windows

Casement windows swing open on side hinges. Keyed locks fit to the handle or the sash, and restrictors can limit the opening.

Timber sash windows

Found in older homes. Keyed sash locks or sash stops fix the two sashes together or limit how far they slide.

Louvre windows

Louvres are hard to secure because individual blades can sometimes be removed. Security screens are usually the best answer.

Window restrictors

Restrictors limit how far a window opens, typically to around 12.5cm. They:

• Let fresh air in while keeping the gap too small to climb through.
• Help prevent young children falling from upper windows.
• Can usually be released by an adult for cleaning or in an emergency.

Restrictors are especially worthwhile on upper-floor bedrooms in double-storey homes, common in Vermont South and Forest Hill.

Keeping exits usable

Some windows are emergency exits, particularly bedroom windows. Before locking every window, think about how each person would get out in a fire.

• Keep window keys in a fixed, known place near each window, out of reach from outside.
• Make sure everyone in the household knows where the keys are.
• Consider leaving designated escape windows with a restrictor that can be released without a key.

Keyed alike

Most window locks use small keys. Having them all keyed alike means one key works every window, so nobody has to search for the right one.

Windows in rentals

Victorian rental minimum standards require external windows that can open to have functioning latches to secure them against external entry, unless an exemption applies. Rental providers should check current requirements with Consumer Affairs Victoria. Our guide to landlord and tenant lock rules has more.

Signs your window locks need attention

• The catch does not hold the window firmly closed.
• The window rattles when shut.
• The lock key is lost.
• The lock is seized or broken.
• The window can be lifted in its track.

Most of these are quick fixes during a window locks visit.

Prioritising on a budget

If you cannot do every window at once, start with:

1. Ground-floor windows at the back and sides.
2. Windows near climbable structures.
3. Windows you leave open for ventilation.
4. Upper-floor windows in children's rooms (restrictors).

A security locksmith walk-through can help you decide.

Combining windows with doors

Window locks work best alongside secure doors. A house with strong door locks and unlocked windows simply moves the risk. Our guide to sliding door security and deadlock vs deadlatch cover the doors.

What a visit involves

1. We walk through each window with you.
2. We identify the window type and the right lock.
3. We discuss which windows are escape routes.
4. We give you a price before fitting.
5. We fit the locks and restrictors, keyed alike.
6. We show you how each one works.

Care for window locks

• Keep tracks clean so windows slide easily.
• Do not force a stiff lock; have it checked.
• Keep spare keys somewhere safe.
• Check restrictors regularly on children's windows.

Get your windows secured

We fit window locks and restrictors across Burwood East, Burwood, Forest Hill, Vermont South, Blackburn South and Glen Waverley. Call 03 4422 2837 or request a quote with the number and type of windows. We are at 50 Middleborough Rd, Burwood East, open 7 days from 8:00am to 7:00pm (Friday until 7:30pm). See also our residential locksmith service.