Window locks for pVC windows

gwapenut

Hi all
There seems to be very little choice down the sheds for these. I'm particularly after something which restricts how uch the window cna open.

One staff member told me I could buy a normal lock, for a wooden or metal window, so long as I use self tapping screws.

Does this sound right, or do I need to splash out on dedicated ones with "PVC" on the packet? Can't imagine why they wouldn't market them for PVC if it was that easy ...

McAzrael

I'm not completely sure what you are looking for, but is it a window a restrictor? I am guessing that you have a working lock and handle on the window, but just want to stop it opening fully, say, to stop kids falling out.

There is very little window hardware that is suitable for both timber and UPVC windows.

Rex_Mundi

I've fitted normal window locks to plastic/ali windows without a problem (more than a few times). If you can find a lock that will fit with your window and it suits your purpose, then use it.

The advice you've been given about self tapping screws is correct.

Just be careful of the length of the screws, and where you put them in. It is possible to damage the integrity of the window if you put them in the wrong place.

gwapenut

Rex_Mundi wrote: »

I've fitted normal window locks to plastic/ali windows without a problem (more than a few times). If you can find a lock that will fit with your window and it suits your purpose, then use it.

The advice you've been given about self tapping screws is correct.

Just be careful of the length of the screws, and where you put them in. It is possible to damage the integrity of the window if you put them in the wrong place.

Thanks for that. Do you have some rough guidance on where the wrong points are?

eg. Is a corner good (because it's quite rigid) or bad (because it's where two pieces join and need to fit solidly).

I seem to recall with doors that I used to put things near where two pieces join, but this was not recommended because the join needs all the strength it can get.

Rex_Mundi

Keep an eye on the existing locking mechanism of any openers, including the fixing screws already in place.

If you put any screws in the bottom of the frame, there is a (very small) chance that water may find its way through. Once you've made your fixing holes, a tiny dab of silicone (either on the hole, or on the screw) would prevent this happening.

gwapenut

Just to help anyone who searches for this, after looking round all the sheds I finally found upvc window restricters / limiters in Wickes for about £10 each. Great!

Now to work out which part of the frame it is safe to fix them to, without weakening it ... :eek: I'd like to fit them in the vertical part of the window, at the very bottom, but think it is very likely to weaken the window there because it is a join?