In this month’s blog we are looking at the pros and cons of using concealed window restrictors for best aesthetics. Whether you are a home-owner, landlord, hotel or care home, window safety and security are major concerns. However, we also understand that window aesthetics are also important, so read on to find out what our experts say on the matter.
If you are considering a window restrictor you are considering safety and security, and so whether you choose a concealed window restrictor or a retro-fitted option, you will want to know that the aims of improving safety and security are achieved.
In some situations the type of window restrictor to be used is subject to official guidance, particularly in health and care environments and in education buildings. In these situations window restrictors have to be a minimum strength and operated by a key or special tool, in which case concealed window restrictors are not permitted. If this does not apply to your situation read on….
Concealed ‘v’ retrofitted window restrictors – Window Aesthetics
Firstly, just considering the aesthetics of window restrictors. A concealed window restrictor is a metal unit that is fitted to the inside of the window frame, while a retro-fitted window restrictor is fitted on the outside of the window frame. Some people prefer to not have a window restrictor on the window frame due to aesthetics. However, Jackloc retro-fitted window restrictors are a sleek, attractive and non-intrusive design, they can even be ordered in bespoke colours to blend in with the window aesthetics.
Concealed Window Restrictors ‘v’ Retrofitted – Testing requirements
The biggest disadvantage of choosing concealed window restrictors is that they are generally not certified for safety and security. Jackloc retrofitted window restrictors undergo stringent testing to ensure that they not only meet but exceed British Standards testing for all domestic and commercial environments. Force tests ensure that the weight of 34 stone and above can be resisted – which is particularly important for high-rise and healthcare accommodation.
The Titan by Jackloc is the first and only window restrictor to be accredited and independently approved by the official police security initiative Secured by Design and crime prevention testing centre Sold Secure, after enduring a series of stringent tests. The Titan is certified as Police Preferred due to its high level of security and ability to deter or prevent crime.
There are no such guarantees of how much force a concealed window restrictor will withstand. Indeed, a tragic case of a person falling from a window that had a restrictor in place yet failed to prevent the fall led the HSE to review their guidelines. The HSE now require care homes to only fit window restrictors that are certified as withstanding a specific weight. The last thing you would want to happen is that you choose a concealed restrictor for aesthetics and then find that it failed to do its job.
Concealed ‘v’ retrofitted window restrictors – Convenience, Safety & Security
Some concealed options and retrofitted options are permanently fixed at a maximum opening width. A disadvantage of the fixed opening restrictors is that the window can never be opened wider for ventilation without removing the screws. This might be suitable for situations in which vulnerable people are always present and so it is never safe to fully open the window.
The second style of window restrictors allow the window to be fully opened by operating a catch or button release mechanism. The disadvantage of these options is that it is easy for someone to accidently push the button and open the window completely. This poses a risk from accidental falls as well as deliberate action by a curious child. This is why in care environments the HSE stipulate that this style of restrictor is not suitable.
The third style of restrictor window restrictor is key-operated, these and permanently fixed opening width options are the most safe and secure options. Concealed window restrictors are not available in key operated designs. Jackloc offer two types of key-operated window restrictors, the Pro-5 and the Titan.
Stronger, safer more secure window restrictors
To summarise, a certified retro-fitted window restrictor is stronger and safer than concealed window restrictors.
But don’t just take our word for it. The Jackloc Titan high security window restrictor has been awarded Sold Secure status by the Master Locksmiths Association as well as Secured by Design certification which means it is Police Preferred. Jackloc window restrictors are used by international hotel chains, care homes and social housing providers as well as being specified for student accommodation, offices, education buildings and hospitals.
We hope that this article has helped you to consider the pros and cons of using concealed window restrictors for best aesthetics.
