Most burglars (23%) gain access to private properties by breaking into first-floor windows, however, the good news is that most burglars won’t go to extreme lengths to break into your home. This is why taking your home’s window security to the next level is a worthy investment that will give you peace of mind, and keep your loved ones and valuable possessions safe.
Don’t fret if you cannot afford the steep cost of sophisticated security systems. In this blog, we share straightforward and budget-friendly strategies to boost your window security at home.
Let’s delve right in!
1. Do A Thorough Inspection Of Your Windows
The first step you can do is to check all the exterior windows around your home to assess any possible security risks. Focus on the outer windows and entrance doors located on the first level of the property as well as those near potential access points like balconies or the fire escape.
Take note of vulnerabilities, such as:
- Old windows with a faulty mechanism that cannot be closed or locked properly from the inside
- Windows with broken glass or cracked frames
- Windows with flimsy locks that can be pried open by burglars
2. Eliminate Perfect Hiding Spots
Circle around your property to check for potential hiding spots like lush trees and shrubs that obscure windows or doors from your neighbour’s view. Potential intruders could conceal themselves in these spots while picking at your window locks. To deter burglars, keep your foliage trimmed and maintained at a low height. Planting thorny bushes near windows is also a good way to increase window security. If you have a security camera installed, look for possible blind spots and add extra for good measure.
2. Upgrade or Reinforce Your Window Locks
Don’t make the mistake of being complacent, knowing that your windows come with a built-in locking mechanism. The fact is, they are not enough because burglars are expertly skilled at prying common window styles open. To increase the level of window security in your home, invest in additional aftermarket window locks from your local hardware store and install them yourself.
There are many types of window locks to choose from, such as:
- Pin locks - These are large pins that you drill and screw on window frames to stop intruders from lifting or sliding them open. Pin locks are perfect for single-hung windows, double-hung windows, and sliding windows.
- Keyed locks - As its name suggests, a keyed lock can only be locked and unlocked using a key. They are also compatible with single-hung windows, double-hung windows, and sliding windows.
- Hinged wedge locks - This type of window lock still lets you open your windows for air circulation. Pushing inward enables the window to slide open, while pulling it away does the opposite.
- Sash locks - This window lock is installed directly on the window sash to hold it shut. They are usually used for double-hung windows and sliding windows.
Window locks are a cost-effective way to reinforce window security at home. They are often sold in packs, saving you more money, especially if you have multiple windows to secure. If you’re shopping for window locks, we recommend reading our in-depth article comparing the best window locks for 2020.
3. Consider Getting Safety Windows
Glass windows can be seen as a potential weakness because burglars can easily break them to force entry into your home (although not as common due to noise and injury). If you have large glass windows or floor-to-ceiling windows in your home, ask your provider about stronger glass options for your windows.
Based on Safety.com, some popular choices include:
- Tempered glass – Known as safety windows, tempered glass windows are robust and tough. They can withstand intense impact, blows, and strong winds from typhoons and hurricanes. They are several times stronger than your average glass windows.
Contrary to the common misconception, they are not “unbreakable.” Tempered glass can break, but it would take a lot of brute force. When they do break, they are safer because they crumble into dull cubes instead of sharp, jagged pieces. Tempered glass is also aesthetically-pleasing due to its crystal clearness.
- Plexiglass or polycarbonate windows – Both of these window materials are many times stronger than your standard annealed glass windows. Instead of glass, they’re actually manufactured from polycarbonate and acrylic material.
4. Get Window Treatments
Window treatments provide the homeowner or renter an inexpensive way to boost privacy and window security. There’s a lower chance that a burglar would break into your home when the shades or curtains are drawn because this signals that someone’s home. The best thing about window treatments is that there are decorative options that you can use to fit your home’s interior design and natural light preferences.
5. Install Window Security Bars
Window bars may sound old-fashioned, but they do an excellent job of keeping unauthorized people out of your home. They are even a necessity in many urban cities. They are effective in making sure intruders who might succeed in smashing your glass windows won’t be able to squeeze themselves into the limited spaces between the grills. Fortunately, there are now elegant window bars or grills that incorporate timeless style without skimping on security.
Stylish and Secured Windows by Clera
At Clera Windows + Doors, window security is a top priority when designing and manufacturing our premium-quality products. We also offer custom designs that are geared towards improving the safety and security of your property.
For more detailed information or to request a free home estimate, please contact us today!
