Abstract: A latch is provided for use on a pivotable sash window of a single-hung or double-hung sash window assembly to releasably secure the window to the master frame. The latch comprises a latch-bolt slidably mounted within, and biased relative to a housing. The housing is adapted to be installed into the top rail of the sash window through an opening in the stile and top rail, which has a periphery contoured to match the housing end profile. The latch bolt, while maintaining an aesthetically appealing external appearance, is configured to incorporate a cantilevered member which only becomes visible when biased to an angled position where it maintains engagement of the latch housing with the edge of the top wall of the rail during window deformation resulting from high wind loading. The cantilevered member ensures integrity of the latch installation under high wind load conditions typically experienced during extreme weather phenomena.

Abstract: A latch is provided for use on a pivotable sash window of a single-hung or double-hung sash window assembly to releasably secure the window to the master frame. The latch comprises a latch-bolt slidably mounted within, and biased relative to a housing. The housing is adapted to be installed into the top rail of the sash window through an opening in the stile and top rail, which has a periphery contoured to match the housing end profile. The latch bolt, while maintaining an aesthetically appealing external appearance, is configured to incorporate a cantilevered member which only becomes visible when biased to an angled position where it maintains engagement of the latch housing with the edge of the top wall of the rail during window deformation resulting from high wind loading. The cantilevered member ensures integrity of the latch installation under high wind load conditions typically experienced during extreme weather phenomena.