The Complete Guide to Window Security at Home
A recent house move or reports of a nearby break-in may prompt you into checking your window security is sufficient to keep out thieves. Intruders regularly target windows as access points into homes, so you’ve got to be alert to this threat! We’ll share details of how window security can be bolstered, going into locking mechanisms, window reinforcements, robust glazing and modern security obligations. To start our essential guide, here’s a quick question and answer section covering some important points.
Q1: How can I improve the security of my windows?
Keeping double glazed windows locked shut when not in use is the first thing and habitually checking their locks are fully functional. As an added precaution, you could always investigate window restrictors, security film, reinforced glazing etc. Complement secure windows with separate deterrents, such as security cameras, alarms and lighting.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to make windows more secure?
Ensure the locks work like they’re meant to and incorporate affordable reinforcements, which can encompass window restrictors and security pins. Security film is cheap to buy and will reduce a window’s breakability. They’re not optimum security measures, but they can certainly lower the risk of a break-in at a low-cost.
Q3: What does Secured by Design or British Standard window security actually mean?
Secured by Design and British Standard window security are official testing and certification schemes and signify that a window meets minimum security requirements and has been independently tested to show evidence of resistance to prying, levering and impact. You can have confidence in window products issued with such certifications.
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How Burglars Target Windows
Burglars know that timing is everything and will often look to strike after dark, which is why winter typically sees a rise in home thefts. Pouncing during nightfall vastly reduces the threat of being caught.
That’s not to say that burglaries in summer are minimal, as windows tend to be left open for ventilation, offering a possible access point.
Windows most at threat are those located on lower levels and public facing as they’re the easiest to exploit.
PAS 24 and Secured by Design Explained
When looking at secure windows, PAS 24 and Secured by Design are two important benchmarks to be aware of. PAS 24 is a recognised testing and assessment standard designed to protect homes against burglary, assessing a window’s effectiveness at resisting common forced entry methods.
Secured by Design is backed by the Police and endorses products that are proven at reducing crime and enhancing home security. Standard window sizes with the Secured by Design accreditation contain extra security features to stop break-ins, including enhanced locks, reinforced hardware and tested glazing components.
British Standard Window Security is acknowledged by Police and insurance specialists as proof that a window has been tested against accepted security standards.
While there’s no guarantee that standards alone can reduce insurance premiums, certified windows and doors can aid insurance claims by offering evidence of approved security measures being in place.
Window Restrictors for Security and Child Safety
A window restrictor does what you’d expect, restricting how far a window can open, enabling ventilation without sacrificing security. It can function alongside friction hinges to control movement and resistance.
Lockable window restrictors normally require a key to be released, averting unauthorised access and stopping the risk of children falling from windows. Hinged wedge locks are a further option, allowing ventilation while curbing a window’s opening distance for a similar purpose.
Security Glass and Film
A glass upgrade is one of the most effective approaches to improving UPVC window security, as stronger glazing will make a forced entry harder to accomplish. The introduction of tempered glass, toughened safety glass and strengthened glass can withstand extreme impact, and they’re less likely to shatter than most conventional glasses.
Those on a small budget could look to window security film as a method of adding an extra layer of protection, which holds broken glass together if a window is either struck or smashed, making life that bit more difficult for a thief.
For ground-floor and easily accessible non-flush and flush windows, prioritise strengthened glass. Employed in unison, reinforced glass and security film dramatically improve window resistance and offer a solid barrier.
Conclusion
Accomplishing effective window security requires a series of safeguards, rather than just a single upgrade.
Combine locking devices, security films, strengthened glazing and well-preserved hardware etc., to have the best chance of repelling attacks. Installation of blinds or curtains to reduce home visibility can also fortify window security.
Start off with affordable, high-impact measures such as quality window locks, restrictors and regular frame maintenance. Proceed to then concentrate on upgrading easily accessible windows with maximum-security replacements from Hazlemere.
Unfortunately, there’s no such thing as an unbreakable window, but if you do the sensible thing of allying a series of security measures, it will greatly reduce the threat of a successful break-in. Our window replacements (read up on aluminium v UPVC windows) satisfy British Standard Window Security requirements, which signifies that they have been tested against typical attack strategies and will offer all the reliable protection you need.
Investing in home security is one of the most sensible steps you can take for burglary prevention.
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