Replacement Windows: Improve Your Home Security

If you are having new windows installed, you have probably given plenty of thought to the style, color, and material you want. But have you thought about home security? Your home windows are a potential point of entry for burglars. Window replacement is a perfect time to evaluate your home security measures--your replacement windows could help to make your home more secure.

How to Secure Your Home Windows

There are a number of things you can do to secure your home windows:

• Window locks can secure your home windows and deter thieves. Burglars prefer to quietly force a window than to break it and risk drawing attention to themselves. Most new vinyl windows are fitted with locking systems when they are manufactured. A lock that secures the frames together is more effective than a lock that only secures the handle. Aluminum windows can usually only be fitted with a locking handle, which is not considered to be burglar-proof.
• Good quality glass is more difficult to break. When you install replacement windows is the perfect time to include it. Most replacement windows are made from insulated glass, which is quite tough, or are double glazed, which offers even greater security.
• Thicker glass can be used for glazing in external entrance doors or windows next to entrance doors. It can prevent burglars from breaking the glass and opening the door from the inside.
• Laminated glass, window bars, and window shutters are options to secure the most vulnerable windows.
• Be aware that tempered glass, which is used for safety in patio doors because it shatters into small blunt fragments, does not make the distinctive sound of shattered glass if broken. An alarm system to alert you to broken glass or movement inside the window can offer a second layer of security.

When securing your windows, always keep in mind the potential need for escape in the event of fire.