As a homeowner, you work hard and take pride in the beauty of your home. And that includes everything inside of it.
Protecting it from thieves is a homeowner’s best practice. The best and first step in protecting your home is proper window security.
Windows are easy targets for burglars. They know most owners leave their windows unlocked and unsecured. Also, the sound of breaking glass might not necessarily startle a neighbour.
Research has revealed that home break-ins occur every 31 minutes on average in Ireland. A large percentage of these break-ins occur through unsecured windows.
It is of grave importance that you keep your windows secure and protected from burglars. Learn a few best-practice window security tips by continuing to read.
Window Security Rule #1: Lock Your Windows
When people consider home security, their main focus is doors. Believe it or not, the windows are as important as the doors.
Locking your windows is one of the best steps a homeowner can take in securing their home. A locked window is the first level of deterrence against burglars.
Most windows lift with ease. So, if you live on the ground floor, consider a smarter lock:
- Pin Lock – lets you lock your window in a closed or ventilated position.
- Hinged Wedge Lock – lets you open the window partially while keeping burglars out.
- Window Latch – common safety locks found on most double-hung windows.
- Child Safety Latches – stops the window at 3 to 5 inches, preventing burglary.
The windows built into your home may already come with locks. Don’t assume they’re enough. Add additional security with one of these aftermath locks.
Swap out the Glass
People respond to loud sounds like screams and alarms. Breaking or shattering a glass window isn’t alarming, especially if it’s muffled.
Consider swapping out all the glass on your home’s windows to tempered glass. A regular window breaks quickly if a burglar throws something hard against it. That makes it easier for them to enter your home.
Tempered glass has a different structure. The process of heating and fast cooling makes it stronger—four times as much. That’s why it’s often referred to as safety glass.
A stronger glass makes it harder for burglars to gain quick access to your home. The cost of upgrading all your windows washes out in the long run.
Cameras and Motion Lights
Thieves like to lurk in the dark. It makes it hard for others to spot them. But some of them are just as bold in the day time.
Protect your home around the clock with cameras and motion lights.
The whole point of breaking and entering is to steal, while avoiding getting caught. Furthermore, because no thief wants their face to be seen, cameras and motion lights are key deterrents. Install both around the perimeter of your home, especially in shaded areas where trees are.
Motion lights shine bright as soon as they detect movement. Cameras record movement without you having to control them.
Also, consider installing an indoor camera. Most of them communicate with apps you can download to your smartphone. You can check on your home from the palm of your hand.
Secure Your Windows
Windows are the eyes to your home. Proper window security keeps burglars from looking and breaking in.
Protect what you’ve worked for. Invest in safety measures that secure your home’s windows.
Need help deciding on the right windows? Look into our window service for ideas if you need to replace or upgrade your windows.
