Sash windows, a common feature in many homes, often come with specific restrictors that impact safety, security and use. Understanding these restrictors is crucial for homeowners aiming to balance practicality with compliance.
This guide explores the various types of sash window restrictors—including Push Ventlock™, Locking Ventlock™, Angel Ventlocks®, and MigStop—highlighting their roles in improving safety and usability. By understanding the operation of a sash window and the specific purposes of each restrictor type, readers can make informed decisions that meet both personal needs and regulations.
Introduction to Sash Window Restrictors
Why Sash Window Restrictors Matter
Sash window restrictors are essential for several reasons:
- For Homeowners: Selecting the right restrictor improves child safety and prevents unauthorized entry, protecting both inhabitants and assets.
- Regulations: Compliance with local regulations often requires specific restrictor types, ensuring safety and security standards are met. Additionally, keyless restrictors are required for fire egress windows, as key-operated restrictors are not permitted for such purposes.
Types of Sash Window Restrictors
Push Ventlock™
Push Ventlock™ is easily fitted and keyless operated. Use where fire egress may be of concern or above ground floor level. Push Ventlock™ projects 9mm when engaged, ensuring safety without compromising escape requirements.
Locking Ventlock™
Locking Ventlock™ allows the sash to be left open a few inches without compromising security or safety. Easy to install, the Locking Ventlock™ projects 9mm when fully engaged. However, these are not suitable for fire egress windows due to the requirement for keyless operation.
Angel Ventlocks®
Angel Ventlocks® are Window Opening Control Devices (WOCDs) specifically developed to restrict the amount a sash window’s lower sash can open. Fitted and used properly, they can prevent your child from opening the sash far enough to fall through. They do not require a key to operate and are unique in the way they reset automatically when you close the window. These are suitable for fire egress windows and comply with safety regulations. For additional information, refer to the Angel Ventlock® Brochure.
MigStop
MigStop allows the sash to be left open a few inches without compromising security or safety. Easy to fit, the MigStop barrel is 20mm long and 16mm in diameter. Similar to Locking Ventlocks™, MigStop restrictors are unsuitable for fire egress windows because they require a key to operate.
Understanding Fire Egress Requirements
In the UK, the requirement for fire egress windows in a habitable room is governed by Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations. Here’s an outline of when and where fire egress windows are needed:
Fire Egress Window Requirements
Habitable Rooms on Upper Floors (Above Ground Level):
- Any habitable room located on an upper floor that is no more than 4.5 metres above ground level must have a window or other suitable means of escape in case of fire.
- Habitable rooms include bedrooms, living rooms, and studies, but exclude kitchens, bathrooms, or utility rooms.
Basement Rooms:
- Any habitable room in a basement must also have either a window suitable for escape or a door leading directly to a safe escape route.
Exemptions:
- Fire egress windows are not required if there is an alternative means of escape, such as direct access to a protected stairwell or another compliant escape route.
Fire Egress Window Specifications
If required, fire egress windows must meet these criteria:
- Unobstructed Opening: Must have an openable area of at least 0.33m² (e.g., 450mm x 750mm).
- Clear Dimensions: The opening must be a minimum of 450mm in both height and width.
- Sill Height: The bottom of the openable area must not be more than 1100mm above the floor level for accessibility.
- Position: The window must allow escape to a safe area outside, such as a garden or street.
For more details, visit the UK Government website for Part B regulations.
Choosing the Right Restrictor for Your Needs
Selecting the right sash window restrictor balances security and practicality. Consider the following:
- Safety Needs: For families with young children, options like the Angel Ventlocks® prevent windows from opening too wide while allowing ventilation. For fire egress windows, always choose keyless restrictors such as Push Ventlock™ or Angel Ventlocks® to comply with safety regulations.
- Security Concerns: For urban areas, Locking Ventlocks™ and MigStop provide added protection against intruders.
- Ease of Installation: Restrictors such as the Push Ventlock™ are straightforward to install and work well with traditional sash windows.
For a full range of restrictors and their finishes, see the Sash Window Hardware Brochure.
Final Words
Understanding sash window restrictors and their options is key to making informed decisions that balance safety, security, and usability. For homeowners with sash windows, the right restrictor can ensure a safer and more secure living environment. Always ensure compliance with safety regulations, particularly for fire egress windows, by using keyless restrictors where required.
For more information about sash window restrictors or advice on choosing the best options for your needs, contact us today!
