Over the years, Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) windows as well as doors have become quite a popular choice among homeowners. The reason behind such popularity is their durability, thermal efficiency, and low maintenance. If you have young children, the safety features of uPVC become even more important. In this blog today, let us explore several child safety features that improve the security of uPVC installations, ensuring a better and safer environment for children.
Window and Door Restrictors
Window and door restrictions are important to prevent a few accidents as they limit how far windows and doors can open. These are much needed in homes with young children or high-rise buildings as the chances of falling from windows can be restricted. With most restrictors, the windows do not open more than 100 mm. This is wide enough to enable ventilation but not so wide that a small child can fit through.Â
Safety Locks and Multi-Point Locking Systems
Multi-point locking systems come with multiple locking points and doors or windows that improve security against break-ins. This ensures small children cannot open the window or door. These locks are integrated into the frame and function with a single handle. This makes them easy to use and completely safe.
Toughened Safety Glass
Another feature in child-safe uPVC installations is safety glass. Tempered or toughened glass boosts safety by improving break resistance and making sure that even if the glass breaks, the broken pieces are blunt and will not cause injury. This is a must-have for areas that are often frequented by children.
Child-Friendly Handles
The uPVC windows and door handles can be designed to be child-friendly. They may need more force to open or close or even be placed in a way that they are out of reach of small children. Some designs consist of locks or may need complex operations to open, which are not easy at all for small children to operate.
Internal Glazing Beads
Glazing beads are placed inside the windows. This helps prevent glass from being removed from the outside and adds a layer of security against break-ins and even accidents. This is an excellent feature that makes it harder for children who are too curious about glass and may want to tamper with it.
Vent Limiters
Vent limiters, also called vent stops, are devices that allow the windows to open only to a predetermined position. This further ensures safe ventilation and prevents any kind of accident. These are very useful, especially in children’s rooms and even in schools since ventilation is much required and safety cannot be negotiated.
Finger Safe Gaskets
uPVC windows can be equipped with finger-safe gaskets. This will help in ensuring that gaps are not left as the windows are closed and it will further help in preventing finger trapping. These gaskets are designed in a way that the impacts are absorbed and injuries can be prevented. This is apt for houses that have children.
Robust Frames and Joints
uPVC material is strong; hence, provides an additional safety benefit. uPVC frames and joints are designed to endure extreme forces. This also makes them tough to break. Since the construction is so robust, it ensures the windows and doors remain secured over time, preventing any sort of accidental damage.
Tips for Improving Child Safety with uPVC Windows and Doors
When there are kids at home, ensuring safety, especially around the windows and doors is undoubtedly the most important. Here are a few tips to augment the effectiveness of uPVC installation’s child safety features.
Regular Maintenance Checks
You must make sure to inspect the condition of windows regularly. This will help you to ensure that each of the safety features is functioning well. You should also check for damages or wear and tears, if any. Overlooking this may result in compromising the security of restrictors, locks, and safety glass.
Educate Your Children:
You should educate your children about all the possible dangers of playing near doors and windows. To prevent accidents, you should start teaching them not to open or damage the window locks and the restrictors.
Customize According to Need:
You can go ahead with customizing the safety features as per the requirements of your household. If you have young children at home, you can consider installing a higher handle along with extra restrictors. This will aid in ensuring they cannot open the doors and windows all by themselves.
Use Window Guards:
Along with restrictors, you can also install window guards that may provide an additional layer of protection. These guards are useful for huge windows or areas where children usually spend a lot of time.
Opt for Advanced Security Features:
You must choose advanced security features such as alarms that can alert you when a window or door is opened.
Visibility and Lighting:
You must make sure that there is enough visibility and lighting around the entry points of your home. This will help in deterring burglars and you would also be able to keep an eye on children easily. This will also ensure that there is no potential danger around.Â
Bottom line!
Incorporating these safety features into uPVC windows and doors can significantly enhance the safety of residential spaces for children. Parents, by choosing products equipped with these features, can create a safer, more secure environment for their families. Investing in such features not only protects children but also adds to the overall value and functionality of the home.
