What is a pin lock for windows?

A pin lock is a type of window lock that uses a numeric combination to secure a window. Pin locks are designed to prevent windows from being opened from the outside, while still allowing them to be opened easily from inside a home or building.

How does a pin lock work?

A pin lock consists of two main components – the lock body and the pin tumbler. The lock body contains a cylindrical keyhole into which the correct combination must be entered in order to unlock the window. The pin tumbler is inside the lock body and consists of a series of stacked pins of varying lengths. When the correct combination is entered, the pins align at the shear line inside the lock, allowing the lock to open. If the wrong combination is entered, the pins will not align properly and the lock remains locked.

Here are the basic steps for how a pin lock secures a window:

1. The pin lock is installed onto the frame of the window.
2. A pin combination is set – this can be done by the manufacturer or by the end user.
3. When the window is closed, the lock engages onto a plate attached to the window sash.
4. To lock the window, the user turns the dial on the pin lock to scramble the pins inside the lock body.
5. This prevents the lock from being opened even if the correct combination is not entered.
6. To unlock the window, the user turns the dial and enters the preset combination one number at a time.
7. When the correct combination is entered, the pins align and allow the lock to disengage from the window sash plate.
8. With the lock disengaged, the window can then be opened.

Many pin locks also have an external thumb turn or button that allows the window to be opened from inside the home without needing to enter the combination. This allows for easy egress while still securing the window from outside intruders.

What are the benefits of using a pin lock?

There are several benefits that make pin locks a popular choice for securing windows:

• High security – The large number of possible combinations, usually ranging from 5 to 10 digits, makes pin locks very difficult to pick or brute force open.
• Easy to use – Pin locks are operated by an external dial requiring no keys. Entering a pin combination is straightforward and convenient for most users.
• Allow ventilation – Windows can be partially opened and secured in place with a secondary finger latch.
• User resettable – Many pin locks allow users to set and reset their own custom combinations if needed.
• Accessible egress – The internal thumbturn allows the window to be opened from the inside without needing to enter a combination.

Compared to keyed locks, pin locks are generally considered more secure and easier for homeowners to use on a regular basis. They help deter break-ins through windows while still allowing windows to be used for ventilation as needed.

Where are pin locks commonly used?

Here are some of the most common applications for pin locks on windows:

• Homes – Pin locks are widely used on ground floor windows and basement windows in homes as an added security precaution.
• Apartments – Renters often install pin locks on windows to get enhanced security in apartments.
• Offices and businesses – Windows are secured with pin locks to prevent unauthorized entry when the building is closed.
• Schools – Classrooms and other school buildings use pin locks to control access but allow windows to be opened for air circulation.
• Sheds and outbuildings – Windows and vents on storage sheds, garages, and other outbuildings are secured with pin locks.

The flexibility and ease of use of pin locks makes them a popular choice for a wide range of residential, commercial, and institutional applications where securing windows is a priority.

What are the different types of pin locks?

There are a few different designs and types of pin locks available:

• Cylindrical – These have a straight cylindrical dial and keyhole for entering the combination. Cylindrical pin locks are the most common design.
• Tubular – Tubular pin locks have a round, flattened dial and a keyhole slot that is shaped like a flattened tube. These provide enhanced security but the dial can be trickier to turn.
• Surface mounted – These mount to the frame surface and are easy to install. However, they stand off the window frame more.
• Mortise – Mortise pin locks embed into a pocket cut into the window frame so they sit flush. This gives a cleaner finished look.
• Push button – Some pin locks aimed at children feature easy push button combinations requiring minimal dexterity to operate.

There are also pin locks designed specifically for vertical and horizontal sliding windows. When purchasing, make sure the lock is designed to properly fit your window type.

How do you install a pin lock?

Installing a pin lock requires drilling holes into the window frame to mount the lock body and sash plate properly. Here are the basic steps:

1. Select an appropriate pin lock designed for your window type and dimensions.
2. Measure and mark holes for the lock body and sash plate based on the template provided.
3. Drill holes for the lock body and mounting screws using a drill and correct sized bit.
4. Drill holes for the sash plate and screws into the window sash.
5. Insert lock body into the frame and use screws to securely attach it.
6. Attach sash plate to movable window sash, aligning with lock body.
7. Test operation of the lock and make any adjustments needed to alignment.
8. Set the combination according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Mortise style pin locks require chiseling a pocket into the window frame to recess the lock body. Extra care must be taken to measure and cut the recess accurately. Installation is easiest with two people – one to install the lock body and the other to align and install the sash plate.

How do you set the combination on a new pin lock?

Setting the combination on a new pin lock differs slightly between lock models but generally involves the following:

1. Locate the change key provided with the lock. This is usually a small hex wrench or allen key.
2. Insert the change key into the change key hole on the lock body.
3. Turn the change key a quarter or half turn clockwise.
4. Enter your desired 5-10 digit custom combination by turning the dial.
5. Turn the change key back a quarter or half turn counterclockwise to set the new combination.
6. Test opening the lock with the new combination.
7. Reset the combination again if necessary until the desired combination works consistently.

The specific steps to set the combination may vary – always refer to the instructions provided with your lock model. Most locks will have an indicator to show when they are in combination setting mode. Take care to not over-rotate the change key and damage the lock when setting the combination.

How do you know if your combination is not working due to a jam?

If a pin lock is not opening even when you enter the correct combination, the most likely culprit is a jam or misalignment preventing the lock from operating smoothly. Here are signs that the lock may be jammed:

• The dial feels stiff, gritty, or grinding when turned
• You cannot turn the dial fully in either direction
• The dial seems to lock up while entering a number
• You hear crunching or grinding inside the lock while dialing
• The lock only opens sporadically even with the right combination

If any of these issues occur, try tapping gently on the lock body or turning the dial back and forth forcefully to dislodge any stuck pins or debris. Spraying a lubricant like WD-40 into the keyhole can also help free up the mechanism.

How do you fix a jammed pin lock?

To fully fix a pin lock that is jammed or malfunctioning, you will need to remove it from the window frame and disassemble it. Here are the basic steps for freeing up a jammed lock:

1. Remove the lock from the frame following the manufacturer instructions.
2. Disassemble the lock body to access the pin tumbler mechanism.
3. Clean any grime, paint, or debris from the pins and chamber.
4. Spray the pins and mechanism liberally with lubricant like WD-40 or Tri-Flow.
5. Work the dial back and forth repeatedly to distribute the lubricant.
6. Reassemble the lock body and reinstall on the frame.
7. Dial the combination as you reinstall to ensure smooth operation.

Be very careful when disassembling the lock body – the small spring-loaded pins are prone to flying out and getting lost. Work over a table and contain the parts as the lock comes apart. The locks should be cleaned and lubricated regularly to prevent jamming issues.

How do you change the combination on an existing pin lock?

To change the existing combination on a pin lock that is already installed, follow these steps:

1. Enter the existing combination to unlock and open the window.
2. Locate the change key hole along the edge of the lock cylinder.
3. Insert the change key and turn it a quarter turn to engage combination setting mode.
4. Enter your new 5-10 digit custom combination on the dial.
5. Turn the change key back a quarter turn to lock in the new combination.
6. Test the new combination several times to ensure it works consistently.
7. Reset it again if needed until the new combination operates smoothly.

As when originally setting the combination, be sure to follow the specific instructions provided with your lock model. Changing combinations regularly can help improve security on your pin locked windows.

Troubleshooting tips for dealing with a stuck pin lock

Here are some troubleshooting tips for dealing with pin locks that become stuck or stop opening correctly:

• Make sure you are entering the exact correct combination – double check for accuracy
• Try turning the dial slowly – quick or jerky turning can cause it to seize up
• Tap gently on the lock body to realign any slightly stuck pins
• Spray lubricant into the keyhole and work the dial to distribute it
• Check for damage, warping, or misalignment causing it to bind
• Remove lock and inspect for loose screws, damaged parts, or debris
• Disassemble to clean and lubricate the internal mechanism
• Call a locksmith if the issue persists after cleaning and lubricating

Following a careful troubleshooting process can often get a stuck lock working again. But if issues continue, professional repair may be needed for stubborn jamming issues in older or damaged locks.

Conclusion

Pin locks provide an effective way to secure windows while still allowing for ventilation and emergency egress when needed. They operate by using a dialed combination to correctly align internal pin tumblers to open the lock. Pin locks deter intruders with their sizable combination possibilities and resistance to picking. At the same time, they avoid the hassles of losing keys or managing multiple copies for homeowners and institutions. With proper installation and periodic maintenance, pin locks reliably protect windows from unwanted entry for many years.