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How to install awning window locks

A person marking the position of screw holes for a lock using a nail

Overview

Awning windows are generally hard for intruders to open but for some added security, install a window lock. It's easy to do yourself and will give you extra peace of mind. In just a few simple steps, we'll show you how to measure up and install the lock so that it fits and works properly every time.

Steps

1Position the lock

Before you start, make sure the window is fully closed. Take your ruler and measure between the edge of the jamb and the window winder. Then mark the centre with your pencil.  First, position a spacer over the mark and place the lock on top. The spacer helps create enough space so that the lock doesn't catch on the windowsill.

A person marking a window frame with a pencil

2Mark the screw holes

To mark out where the screws need to go, use a nail because a pencil won't fit. Push it through each of the lock's screw holes and make some small dents in the sash. Do the same with the spacer. Put the lock and spacer aside and mark those dents with your pencil so that you can see them better.

A person marking the position of screw holes for a lock using a nail

3Attach the lock to the sash

Wind the window open. Choose a drill bit that matches the size of your screws and drill pilot holes into the marks. Close the window again and place the lock over the holes. Screw the lock onto the sash with your screwdriver, but you can also use a battery drill.

A person attaching a lock to a window using a screwdriver

4Insert the bolt

Make sure the window is tightly closed. Insert the bolt into its hole and push it down to make a mark on the windowsill. Pull the bolt out and wind the window open. Now drill a hole into that mark but use a drill bit that's slightly larger. Close the window and check that the bolt fits into the hole.

A person pushing down on the bolt of a window lock

5Attach the striker plate to the sill

Open the window and position the striker plate on the sill. Mark the holes with a pencil and drill in some pilot holes. Then screw the plate to the sill with your screwdriver. Finally, close the window and check that the lock is fitting correctly and working properly.
A hole being drilled for a striker plate on a window sill
Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.