Reduce burglaries with improved double glazing
You might not instantly associate windows with the phrase ‘home security’. In fact, you may think of CCTV cameras, burglar alarms and intimidating security doors instead. Yes, these are also tools for keeping your home safe, but they are only effective if you’ve got the basics in place first. After the front door, your home’s windows are key entry points that criminals can use to break into or vandalise your house. By investing in high-quality and high-performance windows, and fitting them with smart, discreet and well-placed security solutions, you can ensure that your family, house and possessions are as safe as possible.
Choosing the most secure windows
If you need to upgrade your windows to make them more secure, always purchase them from a trusted glazier. Look out for indications that the windows have been manufactured with security in mind: e.g. if they have the new British Standard 7950 Kitemark, are approved by the Secured by Design scheme, or are built in compliance with Document Q – the latest addition to the Building Regulations for windows and doors.
It’s a good idea to choose windows that have internal beading (as opposed to external beading) as this means that intruders cannot remove the glass from outside. Double glazing is generally more secure than single glazing, as it increases the difficulty of kicking the glass through without smashing it (and thereby alerting the homeowner). Just be sure to replace any broken panes as soon as you notice them, as they could leave your home vulnerable.
Window profiles and frames can also be fitted with hardened aluminium or galvanised steel reinforcements to boost their strength, though this needs to be done at the point of manufacturing. Whether you’re looking for uPVC, aluminium or timber frames, you should talk to an expert at Hamilton Windows about which ones can offer you the greatest security benefits.
Maximising your windows’ security
Applying security solutions to high-performance windows is a great way to protect your home from intruders. Fitting a burglar-alarm trigger to the frames will ensure you are instantly alerted if an intruder tries to open or break your windows. Having a CCTV camera overlooking vulnerable entry points will ensure that, if the intruder runs away at the sound of the alarm, you will be able to provide the police with video footage to help identify or prosecute them.
Window bars and grilles are also popular security enhancements for homes, particularly in areas with high crime rates. As well as looking intimidating and deterring opportunistic thieves, they physically stop intruders from being able to climb through windows. Used in combination with multipoint locks or deadlock shoot bolts, window bars ensure that an intruder has no chance of getting into your home, especially residents in Berrylands or the surrounding area.
Here at Hamilton Windows, our windows and doors are designed to keep your home in Surrey as safe as possible. Contact us today to find out more.
