Why Burglar-Proofing Windows Is Necessary
Burglary due to break-ins occurs way too often across the US. For about 70% of these break-ins, 65% break in by breaking the window or door glass. Windows and doors are hands-down the most high-risk entry points for nearly every house and business. Conventional windows and doors hold little security to prevent these intruders from getting inside our properties. Glass can be broken easily with just a hammer, rock, or another much more solid tool, allowing burglars to reach in and unlock the window or a nearby door to get inside.
For this reason, we always recommend that homeowners invest in the installation of security measures such as alarms, or home security cameras. But even these can’t stop desperate burglars from breaking into your home. Suppose burglary is pretty common in your area. In that case, it is all the better to know how to secure windows by installing burglar-proof windows. Learning how to prevent break-ins through windows and doors can make your home much safer. It is a game-changer for your safety.
We have gathered various solutions to improve your home security by beefing up your existing glass or completely replacing it with burglar-proof windows that make gaining access to your home significantly more challenging. These solutions range from types of burglar-proof glasses to installing additional security to your window and door frames. Take note of these solutions and choose what level of protection suits you.
How to Burglar-Proof Your Windows
Having an intelligent security system for your property is a good measure of security and is an integral part of providing your home with the best security possible. But then again, does it completely stop intruders from breaking in? Primarily through your windows? Know that looking into these recommended solutions can improve your safety from intruders who aren’t trying to come through the door. Below are three ideas on how to secure windows from burglars.
Security Window Film: If you don’t want to replace your windows with break-proof windows, there’s another way to burglar-proof windows. You can install security window films on your windows and door glass to prevent easy breaking of the glass by holding it in place even after repeated attempts to break. It can be installed both inside and outside your glass windows and doors to give an extra layer of protection, allowing the glass to withstand repeated impact from heavy objects. Security window films come in both transparent and tinted films to suit your preferences.
Glass Glazing: Glass glazing is another option to make your windows and glass doors more burglar-proof. Window glass with glazing shields or polycarbonate laminate compositions can significantly strengthen the glass against impacts. Thus, making it resistant to cracking and shattering. The glass can then manage prolonged attacks of all kinds. The protected glass may still break after a long time. But that amount of time wherein the burglar is desperately breaking the glass is enough for you or your security system to notify the police of the burglary attempt.
Burglar-Proof Glass Sheets and Panels: But suppose you aim to have the highest level of security and have enough budget for window replacement. In that case, getting burglar-proof glass sheets and panels is highly recommended. Installing a glass that already has composition and strength made to counter break-ins and other types of attacks is worth investing in. Some of these burglar-proof glass sheets and panels can even provide varying grades of ballistic resistance. This resistance can give your property a much higher level of security, not only from burglars but from any bullets and blasts.
Other Ways to Secure Windows from Burglars
Suppose putting protective layers or installing a whole new glass sheet and panels may not be enough to reassure you and keep you feeling safe. Or perhaps those security measures are just too costly for you. Do not worry! There are still multiple other ways of burglar-proofing windows or doors of your property. Here are some additional options:
Window Locks
Additional locks into your windows can enhance your window security. Burglars may have a hard time forcing your windows open when having aftermarket locks. There are different types of locks that you can purchase depending on the type of window you have. The following are:
Pin locks – Prevents burglars from lifting your windows near the ground or floor.
Keyed locks – As the name suggests, these are locks that require a key to keep them closed. You only need to ensure that you’re hiding the key safely.
Hinged wedge locks – This lock is perfect for double-hung windows that can open from both bottom and top. You can also adjust this lock so you can still open the window partially if you install it higher on the window frame.
Sash locks – Same with hinged wedge locks, sash locks are used for double-hung windows to hold them open and shut in place.
Window Sensors
Investing in window sensors is a great option if you don’t own a home security system. These devices can detect the motions of your windows. It can alert you if windows unexpectedly open, especially in the middle of the night or in an event where no one is home.
Window Bars
Windows bars provide additional security in the event where the burglar successfully smashes your windows. These bars will prevent burglars from entering your home, since they will have a hard time squeezing in the bars. Just make sure that when installing these window bars, you must also ensure that you can safely escape through the windows in case of emergencies. In such cases, we recommend installing the window bars inside so that they can be swung open during emergencies. Just put a lock on them to prevent burglars from forcing their way in.
Thorny Shrubbery
Plant thorny shrubbery just outside your windows to deter criminals. Thorns can be painful when you’re dealing with an entire bushel of them, especially if you have no proper gloves that can lessen the pricking. Even if this tactic may seem old-school, it is still pretty effective for burglars who didn’t properly plan.
Burglar-Proof Your Windows Now
Becoming the victim of a burglary is more than just frightening; losing your hard-earned belongings is also disheartening. Securing your windows and doors is always a necessary step to prevent such events. Burglar-proof windows are a proven way to protect your home & your family.
Contact your nearest Window and Door Specialties location in Asheville, NC, Charlotte, NC, Fayetteville, NC or Myrtle Beach, SC today!
