Good window locks keep ground-floor and basement windows from being pried or slid open, but in a home they also have to let people get out quickly in an emergency. The right choice depends on the window style (sliding, single- or double-hung, casement or awning) and on whether that window is a bedroom escape route. This guide covers the main lock types for each window and the safety rules to keep in mind before installing anything.

Questions about a specific window? Call (613) 707-4884.

Start With Which Windows Matter Most

Focus first on windows that are easy to reach from outside: basement windows, ground-floor windows hidden from the street, windows near a deck, porch roof or fence, and any window beside a door where breaking glass could expose the lock. Upper-floor windows away from climbable structures are usually a lower priority.

Lock Types by Window Style

Horizontal sliding windows

  • Factory latch: often a simple cam or hook latch that can wear or be lifted out of place.
  • Track stops and sash blocks: clamp or screw into the track to stop the sash moving; many can be set to allow a small ventilation gap.
  • Anti-lift blocks or screws: fitted in the upper track so the sliding panel cannot be lifted out of its frame.

Single- and double-hung windows

  • Sash (cam) locks: the standard rotating lock where the two sashes meet. Replace loose or broken ones and make sure the sashes are fully closed so the cam engages.
  • Sash stops or vent stops: limit how far the sash can be raised.
  • Pin locks: a pin through both sashes; secure, but they must be removed before the window can open.

Casement and awning windows

These crank-out windows are naturally hard to force when closed because the handle locks the sash against the frame, often at more than one point. Most problems come from worn locking handles, misaligned keepers or broken operators. Repairing or replacing the multipoint locking hardware usually restores security.

Basement hopper and older windows

Older basement windows in many Ottawa homes have weak latches and soft frames. Replacement latches, sash stops and, where appropriate, security film or laminated glass can help, but these windows are also often required escape routes, so read the next section first.

Safety First: Egress Windows and Opening Limiters

Where a window serves as a required bedroom egress window under Article 9.9.10.1 of the Ontario Building Code, the City of Ottawa's building code advisory on egress windows states that it must be openable from the inside without the use of tools, must provide an unobstructed opening of at least 0.35 m² with no dimension less than 380 mm, and must stay open without additional support (City of Ottawa egress window advisory). The same advisory notes that if an egress window's sill is lower than 900 mm, any opening limiter must be able to be released without tools.

In practical terms, avoid keyed window locks, screwed-in stops, removable pins or bars on any bedroom escape window unless they release quickly from inside without a key or tool. Make sure everyone in the home, including children and guests, knows how to open it.

Installation Tips

  • Use screws long enough to bite into solid frame material, not just vinyl or trim.
  • Do not drill through sealed glass units, window cladding drainage paths or the insulated glazing.
  • Check whether drilling or adding hardware affects your window manufacturer's warranty.
  • Fit locks so the window still seals properly; a poorly fitted lock can let in cold air and moisture during an Ottawa winter.
  • Clear ice and grit from tracks and latches before forcing anything in cold weather.

Related Upgrades

Patio doors are often the weakest glass opening in a house; see sliding door lock repair. For a whole-house walkthrough, use the new home security checklist.

What Affects the Cost

The cost depends on the number and style of windows, whether you are adding auxiliary locks or replacing original hardware, the availability of matching parts for your window brand and age, and whether any frame repair is needed first.

Next Step

If you want help choosing window locks that add security without blocking an escape route, see our residential locksmith services or call (613) 707-4884.