How to Secure Your Windows
Securing your windows is an important step in keeping your home safe. Home window security starts with picking the right locks and other security measures to keep out unwelcome visitors. Window security locks are a great way to prevent break-ins, giving homeowners peace of mind. Here’s your guide to picking the right lock for your windows, how to supplement with additional window security measures, and other window security tips for homeowners.
Securing your windows is an essential step in securing your home. Windows provide access to your home and are often targeted by burglars or intruders as an entry point. By following a few simple steps, you can secure your windows and protect your home from potential break-ins.
Read on to learn about how to secure the windows at your house or apartment in a few simple steps.
Why should you secure your windows?
Let’s say that you already have a solid home security system. You might think, why do I need to secure my windows too?
Having a home security system is a great first step, but many intruders still see windows as easy targets. Windows can often be overlooked and left unsecured, making it a simple entry point for break-ins.
Not only do windows provide easy access, but they also give intruders a clear view of your home and its contents. Unsecured windows make it easier for potential thieves to see if there are valuable items inside, making your home a more attractive target.
For apartment renters especially, windows are a common entry point for intruders. First floor windows or easily accessible upper-level windows may offer access for burglars. Many choose to climb up fire escapes, balconies, or use nearby trees to access windows on higher floors.
By making sure each window is properly protected, you can cut down the risk of unauthorized access to your home. Plus, securing your windows not only keeps opportunistic criminals at bay but also adds to the overall safety of your place, giving you and your family some peace of mind.
Here are some signs that you should secure your windows:
- You live on the ground floor of an apartment building where access is easier for potential intruders.
- Your windows are out of sight from the street, creating a less visible entry point.
- There’s a lack of street lighting near your windows.
- Your windows do not have strong locks or are easily broken.
- There has been an increase in burglary reports in your neighborhood.
- You have expensive items clearly visible from the windows.
- Your windows are old or damaged, potentially compromising their structural integrity.
- There is a balcony or fire escape outside your window that can be easily accessed by climbing.
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Step One: Install window security locks
Your windows probably already have locks on them — many come with them automatically — but are these locks enough to deter potential intruders? For added security, consider installing multiple locks on each window or opting for a window lock that can be operated from both the inside and outside.
Which type of window locks are best for my home?
Window locks are not one-size-fits-all — different types of windows will require a different type of lock. Here are some of the most common types of windows, and the best types of locks to use for each.
Single-Hung Windows
A single-hung window is the classic style you’ll often see in traditional homes. It has two sashes, but only one of them opens vertically. In this design, you can slide the bottom sash up and down, while the top sash stays put.
→ Best lock for single-hung windows: Swivel Action Locks.
Swivel Action Locks feature a rotating mechanism that secures the window by locking the movable sash to the fixed sash. This design effectively secures the window and prevents outside access, enhancing your home’s security. One big plus of these locks for single-hung windows is how easy they are to use; you can quickly engage or disengage them with just a simple twist. Plus, they’re unobtrusive and blend nicely with the window’s design while still offering solid protection against unwanted entry.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are popular choice found in many modern homes. They feature two sashes, both of which can move vertically. This design allows for improved ventilation as you can open either the top, the bottom, or both sashes simultaneously.
→ Best lock for double-hung windows: Hinged wedge locks.
Hinged wedge locks are a perfect match for double-hung windows, mainly because of their straightforward yet effective design. It’s like having a little metal piece that swings into place, securing the window by wedging against the sash. You can easily adjust these locks to allow the window to open just a bit for a breeze or all the way for a full view.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows move horizontally along a track. Unlike vertical sliding windows, they usually have two or three panels, with one or more sliding past the others to open. This style is great for spots where space is tight since the window panels don’t stick out when they’re opened.
→ Best lock for sliding windows: Keyed Locks.
Keyed locks offer robust security without much fuss. These locks feature a keyed mechanism that lets you secure the window by inserting a key and turning it to lock or unlock. With sliding windows, keyed locks are a solid choice because they ensure that panels stay firmly in place until you decide when to slide them open or closed, giving you both security and control.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are the ones that swing open like a door, usually hinged at the side. They offer a clear view and can catch breezes nicely when propped open with a crank mechanism, which is typically located at the bottom. They’re often found in kitchens or bathrooms where such ventilation is useful.
→ Best lock for casement windows: Pin Locks.
A pin lock typically consists of a metal pin or rod inserted into a hole in the window frame, preventing it from being opened. Pin locks are particularly useful for casement windows, as they provide an easy way to secure against intrusions while allowing homeowners to operate the window easily. Since casement windows open outwards on hinges, a pin lock ensures the window stays securely locked when not in use, offering a reliable solution for safety and accessibility.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are like the little siblings of casement windows, but instead of swinging out to the side, they tilt open from the bottom, creating a sort of canopy. You might find these windows in basements or at the top of walls to maintain privacy while allowing ventilation. Their unique tilt offers both airflow and a bit of weather shield, and they have a crank at the bottom or side to make opening and closing a breeze.
→ Best lock for awning windows: Window Latch.
A window latch is a small mechanism that keeps the window securely shut. Picture it like a tiny metal latch or even a lever that hooks onto a bracket to make sure everything stays closed when you want it that way. Awning windows, which open outward from the bottom, benefit from a latch that secures the window in position without obstructing the tilt feature.
Bay Windows
Bay windows are those charming architectural features that jut out from the main walls of a house, creating a cozy little nook. They typically consist of three or more windows that come together to form a curve or angle, often resulting in more interior space and panoramic outside views. You’ll often find them in living rooms or bedrooms, where they offer an inviting spot to place a comfy chair or a reading bench.
→ Best lock for bay windows: Lag Screws.
Lag screws are heavy-duty screws designed to provide a secure hold and support, especially when dealing with structures like bay windows that carry extra weight. They’re essentially big screws with a sturdy head and thick body, used to secure things that need to stay put. When it comes to bay windows, these screws are the go-to choice because they offer the kind of robust support necessary to keep the whole structure immobile.
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Step two: Install impact-resistant or safety glass
This type of glass is specially designed to withstand significant force without shattering, thereby offering enhanced protection for the interiors of your home. Unlike traditional glass, impact-resistant glass is made by sandwiching a layer of plastic between two or more sheets of glass. This provides not only strength but also improves thermal insulation and soundproofing.
Do burglars ever break windows?
Most of the time, intruders prefer to find unlocked windows or doors. Most will avoid breaking a window, because the sound of breaking glass can attract unwanted attention.
But intruders will sometimes take the risk of breaking a window if they believe the reward is worth the noise. To avoid this, it’s crucial to install shatter-proof windows or apply security film to your windows, as these measures prevent the glass from completely breaking and gaining easy access. Additionally, investing in window sensors that trigger an alarm when the glass is broken or disturbed can serve as a deterrent.
Why choose impact-resistant glass?
- Increased security: The durability of impact-resistant glass provides an added layer of security against potential break-ins or accidental impacts.
- Energy efficiency: The insulating properties of this glass help in maintaining a consistent temperature inside your home, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems.
- Noise reduction: With its superior soundproofing capabilities, impact-resistant glass can significantly decrease outdoor noise, creating a more peaceful indoor environment.
- UV protection: This glass can reduce UV rays entering your home, protecting your furniture and flooring from fading.
There are several types of impact-resistant or safety glass to choose from. It’s a good idea to consult with a professional to determine which option is best for your home’s security needs. Here are some popular choices:
Tempered glass
Tempered glass is one of the most popular types of safety glass, known for its strength and heat resistance. It’s made by heating glass to high temperatures and then cooling it quickly. This process makes tempered glass four to five times tougher than regular glass of the same thickness. Plus, when it breaks, it doesn’t shatter into sharp shards; instead, it crumbles into small, safer pieces, which lowers the chance of injury. This makes tempered glass a great choice not just for windows, but also for doors and other spots in your home where safety matters.
Poly-carbon windows
These windows are rather new in the market, but they’ve already gained a lot of popularity. They’re known for their strength and durability, making them an excellent choice for homes that are prone to hurricanes or other natural disasters. Unlike tempered glass, poly-carbon windows don’t shatter completely when they break, which can reduce the risk of injury.
Laminated glass
Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more sheets of glass with a layer of plastic in between. This process enhances its strength and makes it highly resistant to impacts. In case of breaking, the pieces remain stuck together due to the plastic layer, reducing the risk of injury from flying shards. Its design makes it tricky for burglars to pull off a “smash and grab,” since breaking through can take quite a bit of time.
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Step three: Consider more security measures for your window
Strong locks are a great first step — but there are additional measures you can take to secure your windows even further. Here are a few options to consider:
Window sensors
These small devices can be installed on windows and connected to a security system, triggering an alarm if opened while activated. Window sensors are a valuable addition to home security systems by providing immediate alerts of unauthorized entry, allowing homeowners to act quickly. Some advanced models can distinguish between forced entry and regular events like ventilation, reducing false alarms and offering peace of mind.
Security bars
Installing security bars over your windows can provide extra protection against break-ins. When installed correctly, metal window bars can be a foolproof burglar deterrent. However, be sure to choose bars with a quick-release mechanism in case of an emergency.
Curtains, blinds, or drapes
You read that right — window coverings are a great design choice that also offer an additional layer of security. While they do not physically prevent a break-in, they offer an extra element of privacy, obscuring the view into your home and discouraging potential burglars from attempting entry. If you’re often traveling, consider installing automated systems to open and close the curtains at various times, creating the illusion of occupancy and further deterring intruders.
Window Security Film
Window security film is a handy and effective way to boost your windows’ safety without altering their look. This sturdy film sticks right onto the glass and helps hold shattered pieces together if they break, which cuts down on injury risks and can deter burglars. Plus, some films block harmful UV rays, safeguarding your home’s interior from sun damage and helping with energy efficiency by keeping indoor temperatures in check. It’s easy to install, making window security film a cost-effective and simple upgrade for any home.
Step four: Add security measures outside your window
If they can’t get to the window, they can’t get in. It’s as simple as that. Consider adding these safety precautions to your home’s exterior:
Security cameras
Many homeowners install home security cameras to monitor their front doors. But with the high risk of window break-ins, getting cameras to secure windows is a good idea. Ideally, the camera should be positioned outside the window. Many individuals mistakenly install the camera inside, which can easily result in a blurred image.
Plant a thorn bush
If you plant a thorny bush right outside your window, any intruder will think twice before trying to break in. If they do try to enter, they may end up getting entangled in the thorns, giving you more time to call for help or take other action.
Get Motion-Detecting lights
Motion detecting lights are a very effective way to deter crime, especially when paired with floodlight cameras. These lights turn on when they sense movement, providing visibility and potentially scaring off a potential intruder. Just be sure to install the lights so they don’t shine directly into any windows — this could irritate your neighbors or disrupt your sleep.
The best window security measure for homeowners? Deep Sentinel’s AI-powered security cameras.
Get peace of mind with Deep Sentinel’s AI security cameras, perfect for boosting window security. Unlike traditional security systems, Deep Sentinel combines advanced AI and real-time human monitoring to provide the most effective security system on the market.
What sets Deep Sentinel apart is the powerful combination of AI-powered tech with live human guards. When AI detects suspicious activity near your windows, certified guards act swiftly, often deterring intruders with two-way audio or contacting law enforcement if needed.
Don’t leave home security to chance. Choose Deep Sentinel’s AI cameras for state-of-the-art technology and vigilant oversight, safeguarding your windows. Secure your home today and enjoy peace of mind with Deep Sentinel protecting your property, day and night.
Need a Solution that Prevents Crime?
Deep Sentinel is the only security technology that delivers the experience of a personal guard on every customer’s home and business. Visit deepsentinel.com or call 833-983-6006