Are Timber Windows Secure?

Timber windows are favoured by many for their final looks, their eco-friendly and sustainable build, low maintenance and longevity. Lasting up to 60 years, and being the more traditional choice, timber windows are one of the most secure window options on the market.

Timber sash windows are a popular choice among homeowners, developers, self-builders, and architects, celebrated for their timeless aesthetic appeal, sustainability, low-maintenance requirements, and long-lasting durability.

This traditional window design is often associated with historic and period properties. Sash windows feature movable “sashes” that slide vertically or horizontally, offering a classic look with practical functionality.

Key Features of Timber Sash Windows

Sliding Mechanism: The sashes slide within a frame, often using cords, pulleys, or modern spring balances for smooth operation.

Material: At Dale Joinery, we use high-quality timber due to its strength, longevity, and visual appeal.

Glazing: They can be fitted with single, double, or triple glazing for improved energy efficiency.

Aesthetic Appeal: Timber sash windows enhance a property’s character and charm, making them ideal for period homes or conservation areas.

Customisation: Available in various styles, finishes, and colours to suit modern and traditional design preferences.

Timber sash windows are one of the most secure window options on the market, lasting up to 60 years. Being the more traditional choice, they are also the longest-lasting.

What Do We Mean By Window Security?

Window security is all about ensuring your windows are equipped to protect your home in every way - from deterring break-ins to enhancing energy efficiency. It encompasses the strength and reliability of window handles and locking systems, the thermal performance of the glass, and the ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

What Makes Timber Windows Secure?

Timber windows are inherently secure thanks to their strong, natural material, offering excellent resistance to harsh weather conditions. At Dale Joinery, we take this durability further by equipping our timber windows with advanced security features, including locking handles, multipoint locking mechanisms, and laminated glass. All these components are rigorously PAS 24 tested, ensuring maximum protection for your home.

To ensure lasting quality, we exclusively use microporous water-based paints or stains on our frames. These finishes allow the wood to breathe, preserving its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal over time. This means you can feel confident in the longevity and reliability of your Dale Joinery timber windows and doors.

Here's How Timber Sash Windows Provide Security

Robust Materials

High-quality timber is naturally strong, providing a durable frame that is difficult to force open.

Modern timber sash windows include additional reinforcement in the frame and glazing for enhanced security.

Secure Locking Mechanisms

Key-Locked Fasteners: Traditional-style sash windows can be fitted with key-operated locks on the sashes to prevent them from being opened from the outside.

Dual-Locking Systems: Timber windows from Dale Joinery have dual or multipoint locking systems, securing the window at multiple points to prevent forced entry. Not only is this to be compliant with Building Regulations Document Q (Enhanced Security), but also to give our customers total peace of mind.

Travel Restrictors: These limit how far the sash can be opened, deterring tampering while allowing ventilation.

Toughened or Laminated Glass

Toughened Glass: Harder to break than standard glass, reducing the risk of entry through broken panes. Dale Joinery offers a wide range of glazing options, so you have the flexibility to customise your sash window based on your style, preferences and budget.

Laminated Glass: If broken, it remains intact due to a plastic interlayer, making entry nearly impossible.

The Superior Choice for Soundproofing & Thermal Insulation

Timber is not only a robust material, ideal for secure window frames, but its natural thickness and density also provide excellent soundproofing, keeping unwanted noise at bay. Beyond sound insulation, timber’s properties make it an exceptional thermal insulator. The thickness of the wood helps retain heat during colder months, while even softer woods like Redwood Timber excel in insulation due to their natural air content.

With its low thermal conductivity and high heat-insulating capacity, timber ensures your property stays warm and comfortable when you need it most.

What's The Alternative?

The most popular alternative to timber windows is uPVC, which is made from a heavily manufactured material. Although they tend to be the less expensive option, there are reasons for this. In terms of security, they fall short. Due to the lack of durability, uPVC can actually crack if exposed to too much sunlight, which significantly decreases their security levels.

To compare timber and uPVC, explore our guide below to learn more.

uPVC vs Timber Windows: Which One To Choose?

Explore The Dale Joinery Range

As an award-winning manufacturer of timber windows and doors, we are proud to support customers across the UK with their projects—whether new builds, restorations, or renovations. Request a Dale brochure online or get a free quote today to discover how we can bring your vision to life.