Windows

How to Drill a Secondary Hole for Night Locks on Sliding Windows

Geek Level 1

Night locks offer security and great peace of mind, but they can be restrictive.

Sometimes, night lock don’t allow windows to open as far as we would like while maintaining security. Thankfully we can add our own holes to our frames and allow them to open wider to get more of a breeze.

First, check to make sure your night lock is working in the closed position. Once you know it is, open the window to create a 3” opening for airflow, checking the measurement with a tape measure. Using a pencil, make a small mark on the window track where you would like to drill the secondary night lock hole.

Top Tip: Don’t drill the hole with the window track in place. You only want to go through the first layer of the frame. Going further could compromise it and result in damage from water or insects.

Removing the window

Slide the window all the way over in the track and use one hand on each side to pull it up into the top of the frame. Pop the bottom of the window out of the frame and then pull the top of the window down and out of it. Be sure to set it aside in a secure location where it will not fall or be damaged.

Removing the track

On one end of the window track, gently slide a flat pry bar between the window frame and track. It should pop out easily and you should then be able to pull out the rest of the track.

Once the track is removed

Using the pencil mark made earlier as a guide, take a power drill with a 5/16” drill bit and drill out the hole at a 90-degree angle.

Reinstalling the track

Simply insert the track tightly into one end of the window frame and snap it back into place from one end to the other.

Reinstalling the window

Using one hand on each side of the sealed unit, insert the top of the window into the frame. Swing the bottom into place and gently push it down and back in. Open and close the window to ensure it is sliding properly, and test the lock in both positions so that you know it is operating correctly.

We are your certified Window Geeks

Centra Windows is not only the manufacturer but also the installer of its product, which enables us to offer a full warranty, eliminating any confusion between product performance and installation. We view the house as a system and understand how each of the elements must work correctly to maximize the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. Contact our local Employee Owners at 1-888-534-3333 or send us an email at info@centra.ca for more information about this topic and many more. You can also sign up for our biweekly newsletter for all the tips and tricks about the window industry.

Recommended for you

arrow icon

Geek Level 1

Windows

How to Install or Replace a Window Screen Tab

Geek Level 1

Windows

Installing and Adjusting Window Roto or Crank Handles

centra family seal icon

Sign up for the Window Geek newsletter

Don’t miss out on industry trends, events, CPD accredited courses, and window updates.