Keeping children safe at home is a concern shared by every parent and carer. Windows are often overlooked in household safety planning yet they can pose a real risk if they open too wide or are easy for small hands to operate. A very common question we hear from homeowners across Dorset and the South Coast is whether child safe locks can be fitted to existing windows or whether a full window replacement is required.
The reassuring answer in most cases is yes. Child safe window locks can usually be fitted to existing windows without the need for major work. With the right assessment and professional installation they can significantly improve safety while preserving ventilation and ease of use.
At RPS Double Glazing Repairs we regularly help families in Bournemouth Poole Christchurch and surrounding areas improve window safety through careful window repair and glazing repairs rather than unnecessary replacements.
Child safe window locks are designed to limit how far a window can open while still allowing fresh air into the room. They prevent a window from being fully opened by a child but can usually be disengaged easily by an adult when cleaning or emergency access is needed.
They are commonly fitted to upstairs windows bedrooms and bathrooms but can be installed anywhere additional control is needed. These locks work alongside your existing window mechanisms rather than replacing them which is why they are so suitable for retrofitting.
Most window materials are suitable for child safe lock installation.
uPVC windows are the most common across Dorset and are generally very easy to upgrade. Locks and restrictors can be neatly fitted without affecting appearance.
Aluminium windows are also suitable though they may require more precise fixing due to the strength and slim profile of the frames.
Timber windows including older or period properties can usually be upgraded as well although careful installation is essential to avoid splitting or long term damage.
In all cases an experienced glazing professional will assess the window before recommending the most appropriate solution.
The terms child safe locks and window restrictors are often used interchangeably but they are slightly different.
Window restrictors limit how far a window can open and are ideal for preventing falls while still allowing ventilation. They are very popular in family homes and rental properties.
Child safe locks may either restrict opening or require a key or release mechanism to operate the window fully. These offer an extra layer of security particularly in rooms used by younger children.
Both options can be fitted during window repair visits and can often be combined with existing locking systems.
In many cases no. A full window replacement is rarely required purely to improve child safety. Most safety upgrades can be achieved through targeted window repair and the addition of appropriate locks or restrictors.
However there are situations where window replacement may be recommended. If frames are badly damaged if glass sealed units have failed or if the window no longer operates safely even after adjustment then replacement may be the safest long term solution.
A professional inspection will determine whether repairs or replacement offer the best outcome.
Even the best child safe lock will not work properly if the window itself is not aligned correctly. One common issue we see during double glazing repairs is misalignment caused by settling or wear over time.
Techniques such as heel and toe windows adjustment are often used to realign the glass within the frame. This process improves operation security and longevity. A similar approach may be used for doors including toe and heel door adjustments.
Correct alignment ensures that locks engage properly and that restrictors limit opening exactly as intended.
Glass sealed units play an important role in both insulation and safety. If a sealed unit has failed it can make the window heavier harder to control or prone to sudden movement.
During glazing repairs we often find that glass replacement is needed before additional safety features are installed. Replacing damaged or misted units restores balance and smooth operation making child safe locks far more effective.
While there is no single rule that applies to every home UK building guidance strongly supports the use of window restrictors in upper floor rooms especially where children are present.
A professional installer will ensure that any child safe lock or restrictor is fitted in a way that meets safety expectations while still allowing escape in the event of an emergency. This balance is critical and another reason why expert installation matters.
Fitting child safe locks to existing windows is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve safety in the home. In most cases it can be achieved without replacing windows and with minimal disruption.
By combining professional window repair correct alignment and quality locking systems you can enjoy peace of mind without sacrificing ventilation or appearance.
If you are based in Dorset or anywhere along the South Coast and would like expert advice RPS Double Glazing Repairs are always happy to help.