How to keep your home cool (and secure) this summer

As the summer heat ramps up, keeping your home a cool, airy retreat is vital.

But simply throwing open the windows and cracking the doors isn't always practical. You might want to make sure small children and pets are kept safely inside. And do doubt you'll want to keep out any opportunistic thieves.

In any case, we all want to rest easy knowing our homes are as safeguarded as possible.

So, how can you increase the ventilation in your home whilst still keeping it protected and secure?

Fortunately, there are a number of clever innovations that are designed to do just that.

Window restrictors

Window restrictors are a great way to add some extra security to your windows whilst still letting in that much-needed breeze. They can be attached to existing windows and work by limiting how much the window can open or physically blocking access.

Here are some of the most common types of window restrictors.

Cable restrictors

Popular for their versatility and ease of installation, cable restrictors feature a high-tensile steel cable that connects your window to its frame. This limits the width of the window opening.

They typically have a lock-and-key feature for unrestricted opening when necessary.

Concealed restrictors

Concealed restrictors work in much the same way as cable restrictors. However, they're installed within the frame of a casement window, making them completely undetectable when the window is closed.

With concealed restrictors, a heavy-duty steel lock restricts the window opening to around 10 centimetres. They can be disengaged with a key or a button release.

Sash stops

Designed specifically for sash windows, these restrictors physically block the sash from opening past a certain point.

There are several styles available, including fixed-position stops, multi-hole inserts and retractable stops. Each works slightly differently to suit different requirements.

Night vent locks

Night vent locks are a special type of latch featuring two securing positions. That means you can leave your window slightly ajar (around one centimetre) while it's still locked.

They're a common feature on casement windows.

Security bars

Ideal for sliding patio doors, these adjustable, heavy-duty rods can be placed into the door's runner, physically blocking it from opening past a certain point.

Security bars are predominantly made from a lightweight, high-strength aluminium alloy. They feature tough, rubberised ends to prevent damage to any framework.

Retractable security grilles

Commonly seen in retail and office buildings, these retractable metal screens can be attached directly to the window frame or to the surrounding masonry. They act as a powerful visual deterrent (as well as a physical deterrent) against any forced entry, while still allowing fresh air into the building.

The best window styles for safety and ventilation

Modern windows are safer than ever, combining superior thermal efficiency with top-tier security.

Even better, certain modern window styles are designed to provide ventilation without allowing entry or requiring window restrictors. Here are two of the best.

Tilt-and-turn windows

Tilt-and-turn windows offer the ideal combination of ventilation and security. Their clever design allows for multi-directional opening using a single handle.

When the handle is turned to point upwards, the window will tilt inwards at the top while remaining secured at the bottom. This brings a constant flow of fresh air into your home, keeping kids and pets safely inside and intruders at bay.

When the handle is moved to a horizontal position, the window can swing open like a door. That means you can enjoy maximum ventilation when you are close by, while creating an effective emergency escape route for extra peace of mind.

Turn the handle to point downwards, and you'll create an exceptionally secure seal, locking the window tight.

In fact, tilt-and-turn windows are among the most secure window styles available. Modern varieties come with multi-point locking systems and high-quality locking cams, making them virtually impossible to pry open. Many also feature heavy-duty hinges and locking pins, all housed internally within the window frame to make them completely tamper-proof.

And while they're an obvious boon during the summer months, tilt-and-turn windows also perform brilliantly in winter. Their multi-hinged closing system creates a compression seal that makes them very airtight, energy-efficient and insulating.

Transom or fanlight casements

Transom (or fanlight) windows are ideal for reaping the benefits of a casement window while still limiting access. They feature a smaller, top-hung pane that can swing open, set above a larger fixed pane.

They're a great "best-of-both-worlds" option for many homes. Their raised opening can provide excellent ventilation while keeping children and pets safe from any accidental falls.

What's more, their smaller casement and tough, multi-point espagnolette locking system help to safeguard your home from intrusion. That makes them perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms and rooms on higher floors.

In case you want even greater security, transom casement windows can also be fitted with various styles of window restrictors. That includes night vent locks, concealed restrictors and cable restrictors.

When paired with triple glazing, transom windows typically achieve:

So, as well as balancing ventilation and security, transom casements do an excellent job of keeping your home at a comfortable temperature while lowering energy bills.

How we can help

At Calder Windows, we've supplied windows in Yorkshire for more than 30 years. All are professionally installed and come with generous warranties for your peace of mind.

Why not explore our range of highly secure tilt-and-turn uPVC windows and casement windows to find the right fit for your home? All come with double glazing, multi-point locking systems and high-performance weather seals as standard, keeping your home safe, protected and secure.

Not sure which product is right for you? Don't hesitate to get in touch with our friendly experts for comprehensive advice or a fast, free, honest quote.

< Older Post