What Are The Advantages Of Window Security Grills Over Alarms?

Both your alarm and grills serve as protection for your home. Alarms were very useful about 30 years ago, when they were not as common to have for the average Joe.  Little was known on how to disalarm and render it useless. However, with current technological advancement, alarms do not serve their purpose as effectively as before. Nowadays, everybody knows, including the burglars themselves, that alarms are not strictly monitored.  The thing is, even if alarms are monitored and the police took notice of the alarm tripping, they still need to travel towards the house where the alarm started. Travelling involves preparation and time. And in most cases, it takes them a lot of time before they arrive to that particular house. If the window is not protected, by the time the police arrives, they are already gone, as well as your possessions.
 One of the problems of having house alarms is false alarms. When police are sent to the house with the tripped false alarm it can be a lot like the little boy crying wolf. It, thus, exacerbates the problem connected with alarm use. In 1999 alone, record shows that out of 219,503 alarm calls,  183,996 or 84% were false.  To solve this issue, new rules about alarm installation have been implemented.  The new rules state that if there are more than two (2) false alarms recorded in a 12-month period, your alarm system will be removed. 

 Window security grills on the other hand offers a much better and stronger deterrent as compared to your regular alarm system.

• It offers a visual deterrent or obstacle
  • Once the burglar sees the presence of the grills on your window, he will  definitely have to rethink his plans. It wont be as easy as anticipated. He would probably ask himself these questions: Would I rather go on and risk being caught? Am I equipped enough to break these steel bars? Am I willing to make that much noise to break them? I don’t think so! Maybe the next house won’t have these grills.
• It offers a physical deterrent or obstacle
  • Window grills are made of steel. It is not breakable. Need I say more?
• Highly effective when installed on all windows
  • It is recommended that they be installed on all windows if you want a 100% security. Otherwise, there’s not much use of putting them on only a few windows as it defeats the whole purpose of “utmost” security.
• No false alarms
• No maintenance and monitoring costs
  • Once they are there, they are there forever. You don’t need to pay for anything just because you want a safe and secure home.

If you do have an alarm system and want to beef up your security it can be done by adding window security grills to all your windows, effectively securing your home from any invasion by would-be burglars.

Window security screens are similar to insect screens however are stronger so to prevent forced entry of unwanted intruders. These window screens are made of steel and are commonly designed to look like that of an insect screen. Break ins can be prevented as these screens are made of tougher material, can resist cuts made by any sharp objects or the weight of the person trying to forcefully make his way through the window. The steel screen is installed in a tight manner so that it will be impossible to be pulled out. These window screens are installed in a way that it does not prevent you from using your windows during emergency exits but at the same time does not allow any break ins. Before shopping for window security screens, always make sure to understand features and the strength of the screens that can truly provide you with guaranteed home security. Remember that these window screens are for security and protection and not for aesthetic and decoration purposes. A lot of companies may offer beautifully designed screens but make sure that they are durable enough to prevent any forcible entry of unwanted intruders. Consider the security features of the screen before deciding on the design. To ensure that you make the right decision in choosing your window security screens you can consult security experts that can provide you with recommendations on materials and design. Experts can also provide you with suggestions on screens that are economical, durable, secure and enhance your home environment.

If you have already decided on the window screen that you will use, exact specifications and measurement of the screen must be done. These considerations need to be made since window security screens are meant to be tamper proof. Careful installation must be done. You can find a lot of resources online providing step by step guides on how to properly install the window screens on your own or you can always have them installed by security experts.

How to Prevent Forced Entry with the Use of Window Security Guards

Install window bars on all windows (upstairs and downstairs).  Window guards should be put up on all of the vulnerable windows. These are windows that are accessible through a flat roof, drainpipe and other access points. Thieves are resourceful. They would do anything to enter your house.

Install an alarm system - Imagine when your alarm clock accidentally goes off at five (5) in the morning. What’s your initial reaction? Associate this with your security alarm system. Once they are triggered and it goes off, the rest of the household member as well as the community will do the first thing that comes to mind—call 9-1-1.

Window Locks  – If you are not into window bars, a strong security window lock that effectively secures the window to its frame through the use of simple bolts or clasp operation will do the work for you. These locks are relatively cheap, very easy to fit and operate. Window locks may or may not require a key. It depends on what you want to purchase. However, a key-less window lock is highly advisable so you won’t have to look for the key when calamity or emergency happens.

What Are The Risks With Using Window Security Guards?

Window bars and locks are generally safe. However, people who have improperly installed their window bars or have chosen the wrong type for their window risk being locked inside their house during fire. History shows that non-opening window bars have caused a number of preventable deaths. Various states in the US have enacted legislation that allows them to write ordinances that require home and building owners to bring window security guards to the current building code standard requirements.  Otherwise, you will be subject to a fine. One of the stipulations or mandates that every bedroom or sleeping areas must have at least one (1) window bar that is equipped with an emergency quick-release device. The mandate may vary, depending on the city that you are in. The best way to know is to contact your local fire department for more significant information about permits and installation procedures and requirements in your area.

A window security guard must be installed on any vulnerable windows. When we say vulnerable windows, these are windows where children are most likely to climb up and play. If you’re not sure where your little tyke is going to climb, it is best if you install them on all your windows as it is better to be safe than sorry.

There are different window guards on the market that you can choose from. You can either utilize aluminum or steels bars. The space between the bars should only be a maximum of four (4) inches, so that children can’t squeeze through. These window bars are usually used when you live on the second storey of your building or if your window is twelve (12) feet high above the ground. They are also recommended if you have children under the age of 5 years old.

You may also use a temporary or operable window security guard. From the word temporary, these window guards are removable from the inside. You don’t need any tool, key or excessive force in order for you to remove them from your window. Operable window guards can be used on all of the windows in your house. The best feature of this type of window guard is that it can easily be removed or released, which allows an easier and safer escape in times of emergency, such as fire. Permanent or fixed window guards are also available on the market.

Keep in mind that child window guards are not the same as your burglar or security bars. The gaps between the bars of the burglar grills are wider, thus a child can squeeze through them. It does not offer the same protection to your child as your safety window guard can.

Here are other tips that you can make use of to protect your children from falls:

• Never leave your children unsupervised
• Keep your doors and windows locked
• Keep all things that a child can climb on away from your windows (i.e. chairs, tables etc)
• Keep the screens in your windows

By installing a window security guard you can keep your family safe from harm however you do want to make sure that if you have little children that you get child window guards manufactured specifically to keep them from squeezing through the gaps and falling out the window.

Another important advantage of window security bars aside from keeping intruders outside your house is their economical value. Window bars are inexpensive. Unlike your standard alarm systems, window bars do not need maintenance or monitoring payments. The only cash that you will spend is for the actual purchase of the window bars. After that, you don’t have to pay for anything unless you have them installed. As they are very easy to install you can chose to either install them yourself or ask your manufacturer to install them for you. The next advantage is, unlike your home alarm system, window bars have no false alarms. Alarm systems have generated thousands of false alarms that cost thousands of dollars. Another aesthetic advantage of these window bars is you can choose from a variety of designs that are available on the market today. You can pick a design that suits the architecture and design of your own home. Therefore, it offers protection without ruining the overall look and feel of your home. Window security bars available on the market today have an additional locking system that will make entry more difficult and impossible for the intruder. The locking system is only readily available for the owners of the house. They can use it to open the bars during times of emergency. Aside from protecting your house and your family from intruders, window bars also protect your children from falling out of the window when they are left alone. It allows you to open your window, at any time of the day, without having to worry about the safety of your kids.

The disadvantage of window security bars is, however is that some products may not have an easy-to-use release mechanism, hence blocking exit or entry point during calamities. If this is the case, it will ultimately put your family members at risk for injury so it may be best to replace your current window bar with a new model that has the proper release mechanism. The good news is there are many different security bars available on the market that have an easy and quick release mechanism. Look for these kinds of window bars. Make it a point that the release mechanism is easy to use during an emergency situation, but not that simple that it can be manipulated and released by your child during playtime. It is also important that you educate them to only release it during times of emergency.

By adding window security bars to your home you will help keep your family safe from harm. To add additional security to your home you can also combine the window bars with an alarm system and motion detectors.

• A regular and ordinary glass window is easy to break. You can optimize your house’s security by replacing it with tempered or laminated glass.  A breakable window is a juicy invitation to burglars. You are definitely making them happy with the anticipated looting. A tempered and laminated glass is more difficult to break or shatter. In conjunction, you can also place a frame that holds broken class in place. This will make unauthorized access even more difficult to achieve.
• Install an alarm system that has a glass breakage detector in conjunction with your laminated or tempered glass and security bars. It can also be combined together with you security bars. This alarm system goes off when it detects vibrations in the glass. The good thing about it is it will go off even if the burglar hasn’t removed nor shattered the window yet.  These alarms are usually attached on a wall or ceiling and is capable of covering an area of approximately 35 feet, in all directions. Thus, enhancing your window security and guaranteeing your safety.
• Security bars are very effective deterrents. These are not breakable and the mere sight of which will discourage burglars from pursuing their plans. These  are a set of grids attached over your windows to prohibit forceful entry. Make sure that you place these window security bars inside your house – not on the outside. It is advisable to place them on all the windows in your house, including your basement. So whether or not they break your window’s, security bars will still keep them outside of your home. It is a cost-effective method since you don’t need to pay for any monitoring or maintenance costs. Security bars are available in various designs, sizes and weight. Make sure that you choose the right bars for your home to optimize your security system.   

 There are various types of grills on the market today. You have the choice to either choose a style of window grill that is more elaborate in detail or a simple style – whatever suits your house style. Here is a list of available grills on the market. I hope this can help you choose which one will suit your homes design best.

ALUMINIM GRILLS.  Don’t let weight fool you. These types of grills, despite being light weight as compared to iron grills, are strong and durable. Aluminum has a high tensile strength, making it very difficult to bend or break. It suits any atmosphere because it is non-corrosive in nature.

WROUGHT IRON or STEEL GRILLS. These are heavier than aluminum and are the most attractive. If you check out shops that sells window grills, you will notice that they come in a wide range of designs, styles and finishes. These designs allow the grills to blend in and compliment the design of your house. The incredible strength, solidity and design of wrought iron grills not only offer effective security but additional aesthetics as well. This makes them one of the most popular choices. Not to mention, steel or wrought iron grills have rust-resistance surfaces.

IRON GRILLS. Iron grills are strong and solid just like your aluminum and steel grills.  However, a window grill made of iron is more prone to developing rust over time. Iron, as we all know, oxidizes in the presence of air. It’s a natural process that we can’t fight off.

METAL GRILLS.  Just like the rest of the grills mentioned above, metal grills also provide effective security to your family members and properties.  Metal grills look very pleasing because every piece attached to the grills must bes carefully hand-forged. The finished material is polished well, thus making it look more beautiful and attractive. Only the best quality of metals are chosen and used to make the window grills. If I were to describe metal grills in one word, it would be “elegance”.  Therefore, if you want to have a secure home and maintain an elegant house at the same time, a metal grill is the best choice for you.

As you can see, installing a window grill does not have to look like a fortified prison – you can actually add to the value of your house with these decorative features as well as keep you are your family safe from harm.

Aside from being a common entry point for burglars and unwanted intruders, window fall accidents have been a pressing concern for homeowners with young children. It has been reported that almost 40,000 cases of window fall accidents happen in a year. Children were treated for injuries they sustained after crawling or falling out of the window. Now it is easy to see why installing added protection to your windows is a valuable investment. Prevention of any unwanted break-ins and keeping children from falling out of the window – you can breathe easier when away from home and sleep tightly at night knowing that no accidents can happen as window gates are keeping your family safe.

When investing in added home protection for windows, ensure that you have the right security bars. You may be attracted to more affordable but less quality bars on the market but a one time saving of a few cents can lead to serious loss of property and lives of your family members. Your family’s safety is priceless so search the market for the best company who can guarantee you 100% protection and not look to save a couple of bucks on savings. Make sure that they have a good reputation when it comes to their product and installation. When picking out your window gates you also need to look for products that have a quick release mechanism in case you and your family needs to make an emergency exit. For example, in cases of fire, quick release mechanisms will allow you to easily open your window locks and not cage you inside. You would not want your security investment to compromise the main reason why you bought it.

Window gates are meant to provide added security to your home and your family but making the right choice of security bars and having them properly installed will truly guarantee your safety.

Accurate Price – Make sure to do some price checking between different hardware stores when purchasing security grills that are on the market. Never buy something that is overpriced but has  low quality. Quality is always important when it comes to ensuring a safe home.

Quality – As mentioned above, the quality of your security grills are very important. If you want to directly purchase from the manufacturer, make sure that you have done your homework by checking the actual product first before placing your order. You can check the finished material by going to stores where it can be found.  When your order arrives, make sure that you check for the presence of rusts, cracks and surface flaws so that they can be returned or replaced. You will want to make sure that they are uniform in width and thickness.  The sides must be clean and properly painted with a priming coat.

Accurate Size – Accurately measuring your window is very important so that you get the right size of grill for your window. You can either do the measuring yourself or have the actual manufacturer come to take measurements for you. This option will ensure that any measurements that are taken are backed by the manufacturer so if for some reason they are are not the correct size, they will cover the expense of ordering the correct size of security grill.

No Joints – Make sure that the bars for the window grill are all in one piece, that there are no joins in the fabrication of the pipes. This will help in fortifying your window more securely.

Polished Exposed Edges – The exposed edges of your security grills should be finished or polished well by filing or milling. They should be square and smooth.

Gaps Between Bars or Grills - The gap between the grills should never be more than 4 inches to make sure that little children and toddlers can’t squeeze through as well as preventing any intruders.

By making sure that your window security grills are free from any defects and are properly installed, you will help keep the wrong people out and keep the right people safe inside.

Putting excellent and expensive locks on your windows is not enough to ensure the safety and security of your family and properly. Security glass can be made of contacts or laminated films. Contacts and laminated films can greatly improve the strength of your glass which prevents it from breaking easily. Contacts can also work well with your existing home alarm system. You can configure your contacts to be connected to your home alarm system and will trigger the alarm once your window is opened during suspicious times such as the middle of the night. Laminated glass on the other hand holds the glass together when shattered. This form of security glass is made of a thin layer of flexible clear plastic film called polyvinyl butyral and is sandwiched between two pieces of glass. Upon incident of breakage, the plastic film holds the glass in place making it more difficult for burglars to break in.

Home owners tend to hesitate in investing in additional home security measures such as security glass because they think that they may have to throw away thousands of dollars they’ve already invested in their home alarm system. What they miss is the fact that security companies are now trying to make each security system work well with other methods to provide premium household protection.