One of the most dreaded feelings of a homeowner is coming home to broken windows. While most homeowners focus on securing their doors, they miss out on this key entry point for burglars.
Seven reliable solutions to securing your windows without bars are:
- Install Security Film on Window Glass
- Add High-Quality Window Alarms
- Use Reliable Locks on Windows
- Plant Thorny Plants Under Windows
- Add Motion-Sensor Lighting
- Upgrade to Stronger Windows
- Install a Security Mesh Screen
While window bars work to prevent theft, metal bars can create an unsightly appearance for properties that most people don’t want. This article will give you seven ways how to secure windows without bars.
Why Do You Need Secure Windows?
According to crime statistics, 95% of all home invasions require forceful entry through the windows or doors. Instead of only focusing on securing the front and back doors, you should make equal effort to ensure your windows are safe.
Fortunately, there are numerous methods that you can do to boost the security of a window. These security methods will make it harder for criminals to break the glass, lift the window, or unlock the window frame.
The methods also don’t have to affect the aesthetics of your home either, which is common for products like security bars. You can achieve reliable security through more low-profile options.
What Window Styles Are Most Secure?
There is a wide selection of window styles available on the market. These windows all offer a different design and opening mechanism. Some window types are less secure than others, so it’s important to know the safety levels of your windows.
The most common residential window styles include:
- Double-Hung Windows
- Casement Windows
- Awning Windows
- Sliding Windows
- Bay or Bow Windows
You are likely most familiar with the double-hung window, as it’s a standard window style. However, these windows can pose a risk, as the large opening can make an easy entrance.
Among these window styles, the most secure option is casement windows. This window style features a narrow space and opens only from the inside. You won’t have to worry about potential intruders coming in through casement windows.
While the other window options on the list are good, it’s recommended you boost their security. Standard windows don’t have the safety features that prevent break-ins. Fortunately, we have seven ways you can learn how to secure windows without bars.
7 Ways to Burglar-Proof Your Windows Without Security Bars
If you want secure windows, you must take the extra steps to protect your home. From minor security adjustments to complete replacements, there are several levels you can take to secure your windows without bars. Check out our list of the seven best ways to secure your windows without bars and protect your home.
1. Install Security Film on Window Glass
When a burglar wants to take a brute force approach to enter your home, they will smash the window glass. One of the best ways to reinforce a window’s glass is with high-quality security film. Instead of taking seconds to break the glass, the window will hold up against several blows from a potential intruder.
2. Add High-Quality Window Alarms
If you want to alert neighbors of a potential threat, adding window alarms to your first-floor windows is a good option. A loud alarm will trigger when someone breaks the glass or tries to open the window. While these window sensors won’t prevent an intruder from entering, they will make them question if it’s worth it.
3. Use Reliable Locks on Windows
While most windows come with locks, they typically aren’t secure and don’t offer proper protection. We recommend upgrading your window locks to an option that makes opening the window difficult for intruders. You can add some reliable locking system options, such as sash locks or a keyed lock.
4. Plant Thorny Plants Under Windows
One of the most effective ways to secure windows without bars is planting thorny bushes below the window. Planting these painful shrubs is an effective method for preventing a break-in in numerous locations, whether you plant it at the base of windows or security fences.
5. Add Motion-Sensor Lighting
Give intruders nowhere to hide with bright motion-sensor lighting. Most motion sensors are paired with security cameras to improve visibility at night. For better window security, you can install these lights above your windows. These motion sensor lights can stun potential burglars and stop them from pursuing further.
6. Upgrade to Stronger Windows
If you want to avoid installing security bars or window security film, the best thing you can do is upgrade your home’s window glass. Replacing traditional glass with laminated glass options will make breaking the windows much harder. As safety glass technologies improve, shatterproof glass options fortify your home from intruders.
7. Install a Security Mesh Screen
With so many homeowners wondering how to protect windows without bars, there are new sleeker options for windows. Security mesh products are constructed from durable steel that acts as a great way to secure windows without bars. These steel mesh screens look like standard window screens with incredible strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a window style that opens outwards like a casement window, you may be curious about how to secure windows without bars. Some of the best options are using laminated safety glass and installing a window lock. However, you should always have security measures such as security cameras as well.
Your first-floor windows and garage windows are most susceptible to entry because it’s the easiest to access by intruders. Stop burglars with window glass upgrades such as tempered glass and window security film. Most burglars will give up after attempting to pass through these home security measures.
Installing bars on windows has been used to prevent burglars for decades with success. If you want to sacrifice a little aesthetic appeal to prevent break-ins, you can’t go wrong with installing security bars. You can secure your windows with a wide range of styles that work well with your home design.
Conclusion
As you can see, you don’t have to sacrifice style for improved window security. You can combine various methods as a burglar deterrent with motion sensor lighting and keep burglars out with laminated glass.
One of the most important things to remember is to keep your windows locked and be mindful of security. Most criminals will take the open opportunity for an easy entrance into your home through non-secure windows or doors.
Take these methods and secure your windows without security bars with ease.