Your vintage windows need to be able to lock...but what lock should you choose? Where can you buy locks?
In this blog and the videos, we will review 3 different types of locks that have been used by Old Home Rescue.
The Box Store, Budget Lock: The Everbilt, Steel Window Lock
The Everbilt is the first lock that Ty mentions in the video. This lock can be found in almost all big, hardware box stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. They can also be found at your local hardware store, which is great if you’re in a pinch for an affordable lock! However, the hardware store lock is fairly low in quality.
From our experience, we have learned that the steel finish fails quickly from just the slightest wear. When our team used them, they became damaged during the installation process. The Everbilt locks also are light in weight, which gives us some concerns about how secure they are.
The Big, Beautiful Sash Lock: The SRS Solid Brass Lock
The SRS lock is an updated design from the traditional Fitch pattern and it incorporates a lever. The lever is enlarged to operate smoothly and with ease. With a narrow strike, this lock is an excellent choice for insulated sash units. A forged brass base, lever and strike with an internal stainless steel mechanism are some of the attractive features of the SRS Lock.
SRS Hardware is an online supplier of premium hardware and we know that everything from them is of the highest quality. The owners are members of the Window Preservation Alliance and they support local window restoration companies nationwide.
From our experience with the SRS Lock, we do notice that the finish does tarnish over time but can easily be polished and restored. We do like that this lock is from a niche window hardware supplier that is able to have matching finishes for all your window hardware types. We also want to point out that this lock is larger than your standard lock and the price is higher than the other locks mentioned in this blog.
The Simple, Vintage Sash Lock: Traditional Sash Lock
The Traditional Sash Lock is a reproduction of common sash locks from 1910-1940. It is made of solid brass and comes in brass, antique brass, brushed nickel and oil rubbed bronze. It’s a sturdy lock that will last forever. The lock itself is smooth and will lock tight enough to pull the meeting rails together.
We tried dozens of locks prior to coming across the traditional sash lock. We searched high and low on places like Amazon and other sites. We are pleased to have found a lock that does what it’s supposed to do without being too showy. For the price and sturdiness, we have found the traditional lock to be the best suite for us at Old Home Rescue.
Want to learn how to install your locks? Check out the next video to learn a step by step approach to installing your window locks!
You can order the traditional sash lock mentioned early in the blog by going to our online store! Just click this link!
Have a question? Leave us a comment below!