When it comes to home invasions, windows are often seen as the most vulnerable point of entry. Not only are windows an opening that potential burglars and vandals can use to gain access to your home, but an unobstructed basement window or sliding window can provide outsiders with a view of the interior of your residence, which can pose a secondary security risk.
Today, we are going to take a look at home security windows. We will explain what they are and how they function and examine their benefits and drawbacks.
Once we have assessed the effectiveness of home security windows, we will introduce an innovative alternative many homeowners are adopting to secure their homes.
So, let’s get started!
What Are Home Security Windows?
Home security windows, or safety windows, are specialized residential windows designed to provide additional protection against break-ins.
They are usually made from reinforced glass and come equipped with secure window lock mechanisms. Other home security windows will feature physical barriers, such as steel window bars and grates, rather than reinforced glass.
What Is the Purpose of Home Security Windows?
As you can imagine, the primary purpose of these specialized windows is to improve a home’s security by making it difficult for a potential intruder to enter through a window. They can enhance security by keeping burglars, vandals, and other types of intruders out and can act as a deterrent, especially if they feature physical window bars.
While keeping unwanted individuals out of the home is the primary use of home security windows, they also provide an added level of safety by reducing the chances that the window will shatter into dangerous shards due to an accidental impact.
This can be hugely beneficial for those living in areas where severe weather can damage unprotected windows. In some cases, home security windows can also help with noise reduction, as the thicker glass can help to dampen exterior noise for those inside the home.
What Should You Know Before Buying Home Security Windows?
While home security windows can help enhance homeowners' safety and security, you must be aware of your options and some potential drawbacks.
Consider the Material and Type of Window
Not all home security windows are made of the same material, so they are not always made to the same standard. The effectiveness of the window as a home security measure will depend on the type of material and its overall quality.
Common options include laminated glass, tempered glass, and strengthened polycarbonate. In some cases, the window itself is barely stronger than a standard residential window, but it is protected by exterior-facing metal burglar bars.
The best options, like heat-treated tempered glass windows, are the most expensive. While less effective home security windows, like those made of laminated glass, are often the most affordable and accessible. Again, quality and durability matter.
Look at the Frame Quality
A home security window is only as secure as the window frame surrounding it. If you opt for a cheaper option, the window frame will be vulnerable. The best options feature high-strength steel frames, but this often comes with a steeper price tag.
Assess the Cost and Installation Fees
Home security windows can be expensive, especially if you opt for the higher-quality options. Before installing home security windows, consider your budget and how many you will need to secure your entire home properly. If your home has large windows, replacing them with high-quality home security windows can be exceedingly expensive.
You must also consider installation costs, as home security windows can only be completely effective if installed correctly. Hiring professionals to fit and seal the windows correctly can be very expensive.
Introducing the Alternative: Window Security Film
While home security windows can certainly be effective, they can be expensive to purchase and install. They can also have aesthetic drawbacks if you want a more subtle look.
Window security film is an innovative alternative to standard forms of home window protection. This high-strength, transparent window film is bonded directly to your existing windows to significantly increase their strength and shatter resistance.
Window security film offers a budget-friendly alternative that provides reliable and smart security and safety. Rather than needing to take on the costs of replacing your windows, you get a simple and aesthetically pleasing way to strengthen your home’s windows.
What Are the Advantages of Window Security Film?
The following are just some of thebenefits of adding security film to your windows:
Cost-Efficiency
Even though window security film is just as effective as the best home security windows, it is drastically more affordable. Rather than needing to remove your existing windows and then install and seal new windows, you can simply strengthen what is already there.
The3M Security Window Film used to strengthen commercial and residential windows can also be cut to size, meaning you do not have to pay astronomical fees to custom order windows to the dimensions your home requires. Again, this is much more cost-effective.
Outstanding Security and Safety
3M Security Window Film is so strong that it can provide blast mitigation protection. It is more than capable of protecting homes from forced entry attempts.
It also prevents the window from shattering, which is beneficial from a home security standpoint, but also improves safety if you have concerns about severe weather threatening your home’s windows. It can withstand everything from heavy hail to falling branches, so you never have to worry about sharp glass shards causing injuries to you or your family.
Solar Heat Control and UV Protection
A bonus is the built-in heat and UV-ray protection this window film can offer. Reduce the heat that enters your home through windows and prevent damage and fading caused by UV rays.
Improved Appearance
Since window security film is applied to your existing windows, it does not look bulky or unappealing, which can be the case with home security windows. In fact, it is virtually invisible once applied, unlike glass windows with window security bars.
Ready to Make the Right Choice?
Carbon Graphics Group can offer tailored window security solutions that fit your needs and budget. Our highly trained staff will outfit your windows to the highest standards. Enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your windows and home are secure.
If you want a free quote or want to learn more, simply click the link below. We would be happy to address any of your questions.
Final Words
For many homeowners, window security film is a superior alternative to home security windows. Consider this option when upgrading your home’s security. Let Carbon Graphics Group become your trusted partner in home window security!
