Best Home Security Windows

Burglar-Proof Your Home With Window Security

Home window security begins with selecting specific window styles and glazing types and extends into a possible investment in advanced security features. Regular maintenance and window upkeep are also essential to keeping your home safe. However, homeowners often neglect the state of their home’s window security until something unfortunate — or even tragic — happens. Recent statistics are sobering:

• In 2019, the FBI reported 1.1 million offenses of burglary in the U.S.
• More than two in every three burglaries (62.8 percent) took place at a residential property.
• The average monetary cost per offense was $2,661.

Shopping for Windows Based on Security Level

If you’re replacing, upgrading, or installing new windows in your home, consider options with built-in security features. Your windows contractor is a good source for finding the right style of windows for your needs, your house, and your budget. Consult them thoroughly and be as transparent about your concerns as possible to ensure they have all the information they need to find the perfect secure windows for your home.

• Casement windows: Popular in contemporary homes, casement windows are hinged at the side of the window frame with hand-operated locks that are a core component of the window frame. These locks can only be operated from the inside, and they make it extremely difficult to break a casement window. Tip: Casement windows are not ideal for homes with dense foliage outside the window as there is not enough clearance to open them.
• Double-Hung Windows: The most popular windows in residential homes, double-hung windows are one of the most secure window types. They operate with two independently adjustable sashes that move vertically, which you can fit with additional sash locks to further improve security. Their easy operation and high safety standards make them a great choice for homeowners.
• Bay windows: Bay windows consist of three or more windows project from the house’s exterior at an angle and greatly enhance architectural and design elements. Secure your bay windows with lag screws to keep the entire window secure and immobile. Window bars can also add security to your bay widows.
• Bow windows: These likewise project away from the house to enhance views of surrounding areas from the inside. The security of a bow window depends on the window’s material, how the windows were installed, and any additional security devices you add to the window.
• Picture windows: Static, stationary, and non-openable windows are again focused on views and aesthetic but are inflexible. Picture windows have an inherent security element since they do not open, and enhanced security can be added with a shatter-resistant film or screen that keeps windows in place, even if a burglar has tried to break the window.
• Hopper windows: These are typically only used in basements and crawlspaces. Basement windows can be vulnerable to burglaries as these windows are lower to the ground than other types, making it more difficult to see a person who is attempting to break in. Reinforced glass is a good option for basement hopper windows as the material can handle high impact from burglars trying to break in as well as weather events.

Proper installation is vital for all type of windows. If the window does not open or close smoothly, the security of the sash could be compromised. If this is the case, contact your window contractor.

Home Window Security Options: Impact-Resistant Windows

When it’s time to replace your windows, impact-resistant window glass is a great option for home security. They’re most commonly found in areas that are prone to hurricanes as they can withstand impact from weather events. Made from impact-resistant glass mounted in a heavy-duty frame, and the glass stays in place as it splinters instead of shattering when broken.

Burglars strive for swiftness and stealth, so impact-resistant windows often deter burglaries as they make it more difficult and time-consuming to break into a home. Ask your contractor about securing your windows in this style or a similar one.

A common feature of impact-resistant windows is their glaze. An impact-resistant film could also be placed over each pane of glass. While not as sturdy as the inner membrane of the laminate, it similarly helps keep shards of broken glass in place should the window shatter. How well the window film functions depends on the stability of the window glazing and the window frame.

How to Secure Your Home’s Existing Windows

Of course, you don’t have to replace or upgrade your windows to secure them. There are options to secure your home’s windows with locks, alarms, and other technological and analog additions and improvements.

Window Locks

While ordinary window locks like deadbolts are excellent, deterrence works best by locks that make a statement. Big, hefty, bulky, and intimidating, window pin locks, vinyl window locks, and window sash locks not only achieve the window security and safety they’re designed for, they might even keep potential burglaries from being attempted in the first place.

Window Bars

Iron bars look impenetrable. On top of facing the glass of your new or improved windows, a burglar must now navigate around the prohibitive natures of bars, themselves iron-clad and uninviting. While they certainly cost aesthetically, they could save you in the long run, functionally. And there are companies out there whose expertise is ensuring window bars are attractive and unobtrusive. Consult your contractor on your options, your stylistic goals, and your budget to find suitable options.

Reinforced glass

You can enhance the security of your windows by focusing primarily on the glass itself. Laminated glass, for example, is made with double-paned glass, which is comprised of an inner impact-resistant membrane situated between the panes. The glazing film is available in assorted tint styles that also work to regulate UV rays and lessen fading due to the sun. If stray debris — or a crowbar —  strikes the window, it should be able to withstand the trauma. And while the glass itself may shatter, the reinforced frame is designed to hold the shattered pieces together.

An experienced contractor will be able to advise you on any of these options and alert you to any issues that installing them might entail, or recommendations thereof.

Most of all, be sure you don’t try to take on your home security all alone. From the expertise of local contractors to seeking tips from family and friends, you could gain a lot of insight from the mistakes and smart choices other people have made in maintaining a safe home.