How to Secure Windows: A Homeowner’s Guide

According to the FBI, in 2017, there were an estimated 1,401,840 burglaries across the United States.

Although the number is high, it was reported that there was a decrease of 7.6% compared to the data of 2016. This decline in burglaries might be down to a number of reasons, but one in particular that can help deter a bulgar is increased security on and in people’s properties.

Discover our guide on how to secure windows, so you can rest assured that your home is safe from burglaries and other unwanted attention.

How to Secure Windows in Your Home

There are plenty of ways you can make your home more safe and secure. For example, you can get security cameras and set them up around your house, so you can always see who is near your property and what they’re doing.

Other security measures that people take can include joining a neighborhood watch scheme and locking all their doors and windows before leaving the house.

However, some burglars might still try to break into your home even with the above security measures.

That’s why it’s always good to ensure you have the latest security for windows and that you get any window security problems fixed immediately.

If you’re looking to update your home security windows, then there are several things you can do. You might want to install bars over your windows, or you could install reinforced windows, or add a window security film to your windows.

Alternatively, you could update the locks on your windows, or add window stops so an intruder can’t open your window from the outside.

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1. Install Bars Over Your Windows

An inexpensive option when it comes to securing your windows is installing bars on the exterior. Window bars are often used on a range of residential and commercial properties to help them deter burglars from breaking in.

Window bars can come in a range of different materials, including plastic, metal, or iron, so you can choose the material that is right for you and your home.

However, it’s worth remembering that metal and iron bars offer more security due to their sturdier nature.

If you think all window bars are ugly and you don’t want to ruin the exterior of your home, you might be shocked to hear that you can get customized bars in a variety of styles.

Don’t be too quick to pass judgment on window bars, as a variety of bars offer homeowners a range of options that can match their decor and greatly improve their home security.

You must leave one or two windows in your home without bars on though, due to laws and regulations about emergency escapes.

But for the windows that aren’t barred, there are plenty of other options to keep them secure.

2. Upgrade to Reinforced Windows

Ask any security expert and they will tell you that the best way of how to prevent break-ins through windows is by upgrading your windows to reinforced glass.

Reinforced glass is much stronger than regular glass and can help to protect your home.

Reinforced or shatter-resistant windows are great for withstanding high impact hits (often associated with break-ins).

When it comes to reinforced windows, there several material options, including plastic, acrylic, and polycarbonate.

All types of materials are easy to install and are lightweight.

The materials are also relatively easy to cut, so no matter what type of windows, this is a great option for securing your home.

However, you will probably need to seek professional help for installing reinforced glass windows, unless you know what you’re doing.

3. Add Window Security Film

If you want the effects of reinforced glass windows, but can’t afford the upgrade just yet, then you can always try adding some window security film in your home.

These cost-effective films can help to prevent intruders from breaking into your home via your windows and can be installed without the help of a professional.

Window security film is relatively easy to apply and can be removed without any hassle, but it’s also long-lasting and can be cut to fit small or large windows.

You’ll find a range of options when it comes to the style and material of window security film, such as tinted, frosted white, and clear.

This means you’ll be able to fit the film on all your windows effortlessly and nobody will even be able to tell that it’s there.

4. Update Your Window Locks

Another option when it comes to securing your windows is updating your (or installing) locks. Window locks are a great way to ensure nobody can get into your home.

There are a variety of different lock options, such as the common flip lock, keyed locks, locking pins, and hinged wedge locks.

Most of these are available at a hardware store and some locks come pre-installed with your windows. But which one is right for your home?

Flip locks are inexpensive and easy to install, which is why they’re so popular, but they’re also not the strongest when it comes to someone kicking at the lock.

Keyed locks are more expensive, but they offer a stronger lock that is more solid, however, you’ll need to keep your keys in a safe space.

5. Get Window Stops

Window stops can be installed on your windows and they act as an intruder preventer.

These stops are designed to prevent someone from opening the window from the outside and they can also prevent you from opening the window too widely.

Window stops are common in hotels and buildings that are high.

Alternatively, if you want to be able to open your windows as widely as possible, but still be protected against burglars, you could think about installing cameras near your windows or attaching motion-activated floodlights.

Stay Safe and Secure Your Home

Nobody likes the thought of intruders in their home or someone going through their personal possessions and stealing things, which is why it’s very important to secure your home.

Use our guide on how to secure windows in your home now, to ensure your home is secure and that your possessions are safe.

Check out more of our home improvement and design articles to discover how you can transform your home and make it safe.