Fanlight Catches

Beeswax Fanlight Catch with two Keeps, from our current range.

What is a fanlight catch?

A fanlight catch secures a fanlight, a small hinged window typically set above a door or a main window, often too high to reach by hand. Fanlight catches are usually sold with two keeps, allowing the window to be caught and held in more than one position, and are frequently operated with a long pole when the window itself is out of easy reach, sometimes paired with a matching pole opener for the hinge side.

Fanlights are a classic feature of Georgian and Victorian doorways, letting light and ventilation into a hallway, and their catches are as much a visible period detail as they are functional hardware.

Where fanlight catches are used

• Fanlights above front doors – the classic application, on the small hinged window above many period front doors
• High-level windows – any small hinged window positioned out of easy reach benefits from a catch with multiple keeps
• Period properties – fanlight catches remain a common feature of Georgian and Victorian doorway restorations

Choosing the right fanlight catch

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Number of keeps – two keeps allow the fanlight to be held in more than one open position
• Pole operation – if the fanlight is out of reach, check whether a pole opener is needed alongside the catch
• Finish – see our Hardware Finishes Guide to match your front door furniture

Related products

Browse our current range in Fanlight Window Furniture, or see the related Window Stays guide.

Frequently asked questions

Why does a fanlight catch have two keeps?

The two keeps allow the fanlight to be caught and held open at more than one position, giving some control over how far the window opens for ventilation.

How do I operate a fanlight that's out of reach?

A pole is commonly used to operate a high-level fanlight catch, sometimes paired with a dedicated pole opener fitted to the hinge side of the window.

Can a fanlight catch be fitted to any hinged fanlight?

Most timber fanlights can accept a standard catch and keeps, provided there is a suitable flat surface on the frame to fit the keeps.

Back to the Window Furniture Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.