We all have the right to feel safe in our homes but sadly burglaries do happen, and they are on the rise as the nights draw in. The windows in your home are one of the easiest points of entry for an intruder who is trying to break into your home. That is why it is so important to make your home as secure as possible. The more effort a burglar has to make to gain entry into your home, the less likely you are to be the victim of a burglary.

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A secure home is a happy home

Home security is one of the most important investments you will make. Your home should be your safe haven, where you and your family and friends can enjoy time together in a secure environment.

When you have taken all the necessary security measures possible, the anxiety of possible break-ins lifts. This is why a secure home is a happy home. You will feel relaxed knowing you have done all you can to ensure you and your loved ones are happy and safe in your home.

Dark nights mean an increase in break-ins

Burglars prefer to operate during the darker hours as opportunistic thieves can strike without fear of being seen. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that when the clocks go back and the nights are longer, the number of burglaries rises.

It’s important to be extra vigilant during the winter months. Make sure that all your windows and doors are locked, and that you have taken extra security measures to deter burglars from breaking into your home.

Save money on your energy bills

Did you know that up to 87% of a home’s heating energy can be gained and up to 40% can be lost through windows? That’s why glazing is a significant investment when it comes to both saving money and keeping your home secure.

Windows with higher glazing help to keep homes insulated. Therefore, improved glazing will also have a positive effect on your home’s energy rating, by keeping your home warmer for longer. The winter months are looking bleak with the rising energy costs, so it has never been more important to make sure we are doing all we can to retain heat in our homes.

Increase the value of your home

When you invest in your home, there are many returns to make when you decide to sell and move on. Windows and doors are a definite win when it comes to increasing the value of your home.

New windows and doors will make your home look modern and attractive, and windows with improved glazing will also mean better security, efficiency and noise protection. This all adds value to your home.

How to know if you need to upgrade your security

Check door and window frames

Doors and windows are the prime points of entry for a burglar to get into your home. If there is any damage to your doors and windows, this can weaken the security of your home and make it easier for thieves to access your home.

A good place to start is to check the frames of your doors and windows for any damage regularly. Doors and windows should be securely fixed to their frames. The frames should also be strong and securely fixed to the wall. If any damage has occurred, or they are coming away from the wall, it’s important to get them fixed and securely fitted as quickly as possible.

Improving Window Security

How to secure my home’s windows

By taking necessary preventative steps to make sure that your windows are burglar-proof, you will have peace of mind knowing that your home is secure. Window security can be improved in a variety of ways, from locking devices and window sensors to films and glazing. Here, we take a look at all the options to enhance the security of your home.

Good locks will put burglars off! How to secure windows with simple window locks

A glaring flaw in your home security could be the locking mechanisms used or the lack of them. When buying a new home, homeowners are advised to change their door locks but are rarely encouraged to change the window locks. If the window locking mechanism you have in place is not adequate, your window security is just not up to scratch. Here are some window locks we can recommend:

Types of window locks

Install sash jammers: A sash jammer is a cost-effective and proven piece of window security equipment. They are ideal for windows that have one lock lever. It’s recommended for two sash jammers to be fitted so the window cannot be levered from a corner. This will give your windows the same protection as new multipoint lock windows.

Install anti-jemmy window blocks: this effective device is fitted to the window so they cannot be pried, or ‘jemmied’ open with a crowbar as the bolt secures through the frame keeping the window secure.

Window latches: these are the most aesthetically pleasing option when it comes to securing your windows. They are a traditional method of closing and securing windows that are not made of standard uPVC construction found in most homes.

Lockable Window Restrictor

When you think of securing your home, it’s mainly to keep unwanted guests out. However, window restrictors are an effective way to keep children safe in your home. The contraption limits how far the window can be opened, ensuring a child cannot fall out and harm themselves. A lockable window restrictor also provides an extra level of security for your home, as it can only be opened by someone with the key.

Security Products

There are various security products on the market, which you can use to improve the security of your windows, making your home a safer environment. These are some of the most effective products available today:

Security cameras

Security cameras have become a popular and effective tool in preventing crime in your home. The presence of security cameras alone will have an immediate impact on your home’s security. No matter where you are, footage from security cameras can be viewed from a smartphone, tablet or computer. This interactive method of security informs you of any motion happening in your home, even when you are at work, on holiday or running errands. They are also quite handy to keep an eye on your pets!

Window Sensors

Window sensors are the backbone of home security systems. If a window gets opened or breached when the alarm is on, the sensor sends a signal to the main control panel, which then triggers an alarm.

There are different types of window sensors available that will help you add an extra layer of security to your home. The best type of window sensor for your home is dependent on the particular requirements of your home.

Contact sensors

Contact sensors can be installed on most windows, including slider, casemount and Velux windows. They generally come in two parts, the sensor and the magnet, which sit on either side of the window gap. When the window is opened the connectivity between the sensor and magnet is broken, which may represent a burglar breaking in. The security alarm will then be triggered.

Glass break sensors

Glass break sensors are small devices placed on or near windows. The sensor will signal the alarm if an intruder smashes a window to gain entry into a home. These sensors are particularly important for homeowners with vulnerable windows, or a room with several windows.

Motion sensors

Motion sensors are perhaps the most vital part of your security system. It’s the main device that detects when someone is in your home when they shouldn’t be. A motion sensor uses one or multiple technologies to detect movement in an area.

When motion is detected, a signal is sent to your security system’s control panel, which connects to the monitoring centre. You will then be alerted to the potential threat in your home.

Security Film

Window security film is a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home or office windows. The film is designed to hold shattered glass together in the event of a break-in or robbery, making it much more difficult for a thief to gain access to your property.

Window Security Bars

Window security bars are an important addition to any home, as they provide an extra obstacle for intruders to have to break through to get into your home. By installing window security bars, you will also increase the chances of the intruder being caught.

Window security bars can also deter crime in your neighbourhood, as burglars will be less likely to target homes that have security bars installed. They can also be used to prevent children and vulnerable people from falling from low-level windows. There are different types of security bars to choose from:

Fixed Bars – these are suitable for internal windows, external windows and even glass panels in doors.
Removable Bars – removable window security bars allow you to benefit from optimum security levels, without restrictions.

Window Security Grilles

Window security grilles are not only a physical barrier for your windows but also act as a visual deterrent for intruders. When retracted they take up minimal space and are designed to look aesthetically pleasing whilst adding to your home security measures.

Retractable Grilles – these can be easily fitted to the face or within the window frame. These are suitable for properties where being able to pull back the grilles for a better aesthetic is important.
Roller Shutters – these can be designed and fitted for each window, and also help to improve the energy efficiency of your home through added insulation.

Lock your windows

It might sound obvious but always check to make sure all your windows have been closed and locked before leaving your property. It is so easy to forget, especially in the warmer months. By leaving them open or unlocked, burglars will have a far easier job gaining entry to your home.

Upgrading your windows

Upgrading your windows is a great way to improve the look and feel of your home. Not only will your home be more energy efficient, but you will also enjoy the added security and noise reduction that new windows provide.

Replacement Glazing

There are several types of glass and glazing materials used in windows that can provide extra security for your home. Providing your existing window frames are still in good condition, you will also see a huge improvement in the energy efficiency of your home. Here is the wide range of window glazing currently available:

Laminated Glass – this is a superior alternative to normal glass, offering a tough, robust structure that is hard to break. It is constructed of two plies of glass that are bonded together with interlayers to form a permanent bond. The interlayers work to support and hold the glass, creating a strong, uniform layer – even when broken. Laminated glass comes in a variety of thicknesses and can be created using different glass combinations or coatings to provide different qualities, such as low emissions or increased insulation.

Mirrored glass – mirrored glass is transparent on one side and reflective on the other, which means trespassers are unable to see into your home. Mirrored glass is created by placing a layer of semi-transparent film of aluminium on grey-tinted glass. This allows a percentage of light to pass through and reflect the rest.

Patterned glass – this is an aesthetically pleasing style of glass for windows, with the bonus that it provides privacy and security for your home. Patterned glass can come in a range of styles to suit your home.

Tempered glass – this is a type of toughened safety glass that has been heat-treated to make it stronger and safer than standard window glass. This style of glass is often used for table tops and flooring. It is mainly used in commercial applications due to the reduced risk of it shattering into tiny pieces and instead breaking into large fragments.

Low-emissivity glass – this is a type of energy-efficient glass which is designed to prevent heat from escaping through your windows to the cold outdoors. Many older double-glazed units do not contain low-emissivity glass and are not as energy efficient. This type of glass has a special coating which is a poor radiator of heat and does not allow heat to be transferred to the outside. Instead, the coating reflects the heat back into your room.

Frosted glass – this type of glass is ideal for ground-floor public-facing windows, to guarantee privacy and filter natural light. Frosted glass also discourages opportunistic thieves as they won’t be able to see your valuables inside your home.

Self-cleaning glass – Self-cleaning glass is designed with a specialist surface which allows it to stay free of dirt. It usually takes around a month for the two self-cleaning coatings (hydrophobic and hydrophilic) on the glass to be activated. The hydrophilic coating uses sunlight to chemically break down dirt.

Fire-protection glass – a specialist glass that has been proven to protect against fire. The degree of protection provided by fire-protection glass depends on the type of glass. The glass acts as a barrier to help prevent the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire.

Noise-control glass – noise reduction glazing is a specialised glass system designed to dampen and dissolve noise. This is done by adjusting the thickness of the glass, adding interlayers and increasing spacing between the glazing.

Double and Triple Glazing – double glazing is a sealed unit that has two panes of glass, whereas triple glazing has three panes of glass. Both double and triple-glazed windows will increase the energy efficiency of your home. Stronger window frames are required for double or triple glazing, which means they are more durable and safer and will increase the security of your home.

Internal glazing beading

Internal glazing beading is a strip of metal or plastic that is used to hold the glass in place in a window or door. It is fitted between the glass and the frame and is typically attached with either screws or adhesive. When it comes to making your home more secure, the big advantage of internal beading is that there is very little risk of it being removed from the outside.

Out with the old, in with the new – Installing new doors or windows

Installing Double-Glazed Windows And Fitting Double-Glazed Windows

Installing a double-glazed unit is as simple and easy as installing any new windows. To install new windows, firstly, you have to remove your existing windows. This needs to be done with as little mess as possible to avoid creating less work for you later down the line.

Following the careful removal of old windows and frames and the making good of the brick opening, the new sills and double-glazed units are carefully placed into position. It’s also important to check the trickle vents, which allow you to circulate fresh air and ventilate your home without having windows open. This is really useful at night when open windows can be used by burglars to easily break into your home. Fresh air can still be circulated without any of the risks that come with an unsecured house.

Choosing the Right Window for your home

Window shopping can be overwhelming. With so many choices on the market, how do you know which window is right for your home?

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right window to suit your particular needs. Firstly, consider your budget. Windows can be expensive so make sure you choose a window that sits within your budget. Next, consider your climate. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need a more energy-efficient window to retain heat. If you live in a hot climate, you’ll need a window that is designed to keep heat out.

Finally, consider your needs. Do you want a window to open? Do you want them to suit the era of your home? Once you’ve considered these factors, you’ll be able to make a decision on the right window for your home.

Types of Windows

Casement Windows – Casement windows are a popular type of window that is hinged on one side and opens outwards. They are often used in older homes because they provide more ventilation than other types of windows.

uPVC Windows – uPVC windows are a great way to improve the appearance and security of your home. They are made from a type of plastic called unplasticized polyvinyl chloride. They are available in a range of colours and styles to suit your home. uPVC windows are also very secure and can be fitted with a range of security features to keep your home safe.

Tilt and Turn Windows – Tilt and turn windows allow you to let in fresh air and provide a good view of the outdoors, while still keeping your home secure. The window can be tilted open to ventilate your home and then turned to keep the window closed. This type of window is a great option for homes with children or pets since it is difficult for them to open.

Sash – The word ‘sash’ refers to a single frame for glazing. Sash windows are made up of two panels that slide up and down, or one fixed panel with the other panel sliding. The sash sits inside the frame, which is fixed to the house.

Sliding – Sliding windows open horizontally by sliding along the top and bottom of the window track. They work well in areas where the window is not as easily accessible or where space is limited.

Bay – Bay windows usually have three window panes and extrude out of the wall with extended brickwork. A bay window has one larger picture window with a smaller angled pane on each side. First rising to popularity in the Victorian era of the late 19th century, bay windows remain a popular feature of modern homes.

Skylight – Skylights are windows that either flush with the roof line or protrude from the roof. They are used to allow natural light to enter the room – a skylight will be able to brighten a room twenty times its size. It can also be used to allow air ventilation. When it comes to security, a roof window holds no more security risk than any other windows in your home.

Bow – Bow windows extrude out from the wall of the home, however, unlike the bay window, it does not have any extended brickwork. It is essentially a curved bay window. They are designed to create space by projecting beyond the exterior wall of your home and can provide a wider view of the garden or street outside. Bow windows typically combine four or more windows, which join together forming an arch.

Security Ratings – When it comes to choosing your windows, you want to make sure they are tested to the highest security features. There are standards and testing methods used to categorise the security protection different glass specifications can provide.

PAS 24

PAS24 is a security standard that can only be achieved once the glass product has been thoroughly tested and assessed for high-security performance levels. The idea is to enable homes to be protected against the threat of burglaries and increase security in their home.

Secured by Design Windows

Window security is a top priority for many homeowners, and for good reason. If you choose a window from a company that is a member of the official police security initiative Secured by Design (SBD), you will be investing in the safety of your home and family. These windows are made with extra security features that make them more difficult to break into.

They will also help to reduce the carbon footprint related to crime within the environment, as each year it is conservatively estimated that the carbon cost of crime in England and Wales is an annual minimum of 6000000 tonnes of CO2. So you will be helping your community as a whole, along with making your home more secure.

British Standard Window Security

Window security is an important issue, and the British Standard is one of the most common ways of ensuring that your windows are as secure as possible. The British Standard specifies the requirements for the security of windows and is recognised by the police and insurance companies.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do I reinforce the windows next to my front door?

The front door is the primary way for an intruder to gain access to your home. Many front doors will be located next to windows, which makes the area more vulnerable to intruders. Reinforcing the window next to your front door will increase the safety of your home.

This can be done by adding extra security measures to these windows, such as security films, window latches, window bars, motion sensors, security cameras and security grilles.

How can I secure windows in a rented property?

When renting a property, you may be limited with the changes you can make to your windows. Landlords will always think about securing doors but forget about windows, which can make them a weak point. Any changes made would need to go through your landlord before any action is taken.

There are a number of things you can do to improve security, and they don’t need to cost you lots of money. Firstly, check to see if there are locks on the windows and ensure you have access to the keys so you can keep them locked when you leave the property.

Applying security film and motion sensors to windows is an affordable way to ensure your rental property is better protected from intruders.

What’s the difference between security and privacy film?

People often assume privacy and security window films provide the same service. Some people will think security films provide privacy, whilst others think privacy films offer window security. The two categories of window film do have some overlap with each other, but they are different types of films by design.

Security window film reinforces your existing windows to prevent dangerous shattered glass and offers protection against break-ins. Privacy film has a translucent finish ensuring privacy of the room without sacrificing natural light.