Here in the UK, many offices are found in converted buildings that date back decades, or even centuries. Offices in older converted properties often have unique, eye-catching features like original wood flooring, high ceilings, decorative brickwork, and sash windows. While these features certainly add to the aesthetic appeal of working in a converted office building, they often need renovations and maintenance work to accommodate the requirements of a modern workplace.
When converting older properties for an office environment, businesses must not overlook the importance of modernising their sash windows. Sash locks for windows in offices must meet security and ventilation requirements, so updating to modern locking systems is a must during any office conversion project.
But with so many sash window locks and sash window restrictors available, finding the correct device for each office conversion is challenging. To help you find the right solution, we’ve spoken to the professionals at Locksandhardware for some expert tips on how to secure refurbished office spaces with modern window locks for sash windows.
The Importance of Installing New Sash Window Locks During Office Conversions
Sash windows were a popular feature in Victorian and Georgian era properties, many of which remain to this day throughout the UK. As a result, you don’t need to travel far to see an older building with beautiful sash windows, with many offices located in refurbished period properties up and down the nation. While known for their attractive, elegant appearance, these sash windows tend to have older locking devices that aren’t suitable for a modern working environment.
Many of the sash window locks are basic fasteners, meaning that office security could be lacking when compared to modern casement windows with robust locking systems. As offices usually have expensive IT equipment and sensitive information, it’s crucial to secure the building with reliable window locks. By updating to a modern locking sash window lock, offices can secure the windows around the premises to prevent theft, burglary, and unauthorised access.
Furthermore, with modern features like sash window restrictors, refurbished offices can ensure that they have a suitable source of ventilation without compromising security or employee safety. Modern sash window locks and restrictors are made from durable materials too, so they can withstand plenty of use throughout the day without wearing, while their corrosion resistance ensures they remain functional for many years to come.
Lock Options That Work in Offices
There are various sash locks for windows in renovated office buildings, any of which may be ideal for the unique requirements of your business. Given that offices want to maintain a professional aesthetic for the workplace, a sash window lock with a discreet, low-profile design is often desired. A classic sash window lock, fitch fasteners lock windows in place with a semi-circular pivot on a plate. The design is subtle yet elegant, and there are also key-operated versions available for increased office safety.
Brighton fasteners can also improve security in an office space, featuring a lever arm that screws into a nut to secure the window shut. Because the lever arms are engaged and screwed into place, Brighton fastener sash window locks are incredibly secure, making them a good option for offices looking for enhanced window security. They also have a low-profile design that integrates seamlessly into the window frame for a professional finish.
When it comes to the highest levels of window security, look no further than key-operated sash window locks. Available in various designs and materials, these sash window locks secure the window shut with a key-operated lock, making them much more challenging to force open or tamper with. A member of staff will need to manage the key, though, but the boost in office security makes these key-operated sash locks for windows a worthwhile investment.
Sash window restrictors are another excellent choice for a refurbished office space. They allow sash windows to remain partially open to ventilate the office without compromising its security. The restrictors are installed directly onto the window sash to restrict the opening. This means that windows won’t open wider than 100mm, enough space for fresh air but too small for someone to climb through. This helps to reduce the risk of office break-ins. Sash window restrictors also have a minimalist design so that they won’t ruin the professional aesthetic of the office.
Final Thoughts
With many refurbished office spaces found in period properties with older sash windows, it’s often necessary to upgrade the window locks to increase security and improve ventilation. Sash locks for windows like fitch fasteners, Brighton fasteners, and key-operated locks can boost office security while maintaining a professional aesthetic.
Sash window restrictors are also perfect for increasing security, letting staff open windows for fresh air without the risk of someone climbing through them. All these sash window locks have discreet designs that are suitable for a professional setting while enhancing the overall appearance of the windows.
