If you’re looking for a simple, affordable way to boost your home security then sash jammers might be exactly what you need. These little devices give you an added layer of protection for doors and windows, especially on uPVC fittings. But many people haven’t heard of sash jammers, so today we’re going to do a deep dive into what they are, how they work, and if they’re really worth the investment for homeowners.
What Are Sash Jammers?
Sash jammers are small, mechanical devices that are designed to prevent windows and doors from being opened from the outside even if the lock is compromised. They attach near the window or door frame and then have a rotating arm that can pivot over the door or window, securing it into place. This gives you another level of security to prevent forced entry. You can get these in locking or non-locking variations, but either one will effectively ‘jam’ the door or window shut.
They’re pretty simple to use too! You operate them manually, and it’s as simple as rotating the arm back and forth over the door or window sash until it’s in position. The jammer is then physically blocking the door or window from being forced open by burglars, adding a huge amount of extra resistance.
They’re incredibly quick and easy to install, and can be fitted at the top or bottom of the window/door – and you can even have more than one! Sash jammers can be used on uPVC doors, sash windows, tile-and-turn windows and even some patio doors – all of which are vulnerable entry points for your home.
Are They Really Effective?
Yes – provided you’re expecting them to do what they’re designed to do. Remember that sash jammers aren’t designed to be your primary locking mechanism. They don’t replace your main door or window locks. But for an additional security device, they’re incredibly effective.
For example – while they won’t stop someone from breaking the glass of a window or door, they will deter or slow down an intruder who’s trying to force open a window or door, even if they’ve broken the glass and reached around to the handle inside. This added resistance could be enough to make a burglar move on to an easier target.
They’re quick and easy to install, so much so that you can even do it yourself at home with a screwdriver and some basic DIY skills. They won’t even break the bank – they cost around £10-£20 each. For a very visual deterrent for burglars (and we all know burglars are lazy and want easy targets), that’s not bad! They’re also not invasive. They won’t change the appearance of your home and they even blend in with your doorframes, so you’ll barely even notice they’re there!
Oh, and some insurance policies will look kindly on you having them too – they might even reduce your insurance premiums!
Where Should They Be Installed?
Sash jammers are usually used on doors and windows that are more susceptible to forced entry, such as:
- uPVC doors: These doors often come with multipoint locking systems, but sash jammers add an extra layer of protection, particularly if the door has worn or has experienced previous tampering.
- Patio doors: The sliding mechanism of patio doors makes them an attractive target for burglars. Sash jammers can prevent the door from being lifted or forced off its track.
- Ground-floor windows: Windows on the ground floor are particularly vulnerable to break-ins. Sash jammers will make these windows more difficult to open, even if the main window lock is compromised.
- French doors: The double-door design of French doors can sometimes leave them more vulnerable to prying or forcing. Installing sash jammers on both doors will prevent them from being pushed open.
In our opinion, sash jammers are an affordable, easy-to-install, and effective way to increase the security of your home’s doors and windows. While they shouldn’t be relied upon as your sole security measure, they serve as a solid backup that can prevent forced entry, especially in vulnerable spots like uPVC doors and ground-floor windows. If you’re looking to improve your home’s security today, installing sash jammers could be the best decision you make. To find out more, or book in your fitting, get in touch with the My Locks team today.