Windows – we’ve all got them, but how many of us actually keep them secure? With as many as 20% of burglars gaining access to properties through unlocked windows, investing in the right window hardware is now vital for the safety of you and your family.
Read on to find out more about window security and discover some top tips for protecting your home from harm.
Window Locks
As with many household items, the security of a window can be heightened with the addition of a lock. There’s a variety of options to choose from here, depending on the type of windows in your property. If you have sash windows, you’ll definitely benefit from sash window locks. These essential window fittings are supplied with or without keys to provide added protection against intruders. Sash jammers and bolts can also keep vulnerable windows from attack.
Casement windows, which are a more modern design, also have many high-quality security options. Locking casement handles are popular choices for contemporary windows, as are casement fasteners. Espagnolette locks, or espag locks, can also be added to casement windows and employ a handle-activated locking mechanism to bolster window security. Their installation eliminates the need to carry around a key and will strengthen the resistance of your windows immeasurably.
Crucially, many window handles already come fully equipped with a locking functionality. Browse our range of contemporary and period designs to discover the right one for you.
Window Restrictors
Window restrictors control how far a window can be opened from the inside. These are vital pieces of window hardware if you have pets or young children, as they will reduce the risk of accidents without impacting ventilation.
Often key-operated, cable-style window restrictors are very difficult to cut and are great for restricting entry from the outside. This makes them a solid choice for home security, especially if you have ground-floor windows. Use these window restraints on metal, wooden or uPVC windows for guaranteed peace of mind.
Window Alarms
The placement of a motion sensor on your window frame will alert you to the presence of thieves in your home by sending a notification straight to your phone. Such quick response times are key to modern home security systems, with the inclusion of anti-tamper technology also alerting you to attempted sabotage.
On top of this, window alarms can be an effective deterrent, especially if they are visible to the naked eye. Check out our ERA wireless alarm accessories here and create the perfect home security setup for you.
Double And Triple Glazing Can Support Window Hardware
These days, many properties have double or triple glazing. Double glazed windows have two panes of glass, whereas triple glazed windows have three. There are a variety of reasons for installing either of these variants, including improved energy efficiency, noise reduction and, of course, greater protection against intruders. In some instances, manufacturers can even create windows with glass that cannot be removed from the outside, so there are plenty of options out there to thwart aspiring thieves.
Laminated glass, which has a thick and robust structure, takes things even further by being near impossible to break. It is often installed in buildings that are more vulnerable to break-ins and is highly recommended for windows situated at ground-floor level.
Types Of Window
uPVC, aluminium and wooden windows continue to vie for supremacy amongst homeowners, but there’s very little to choose between them in terms of safety. Other than timber’s weakness to rot, all three materials can successfully resist attack if properly maintained. It’s still a good idea to add extra layers of security with alarms and locks – as long as you remember to use them, of course.
In terms of window style, casement windows are generally better than sash windows for protecting homes from intrusion. This is because some types of sash windows, particularly double-hung models, can be forced open with the help of crowbars. Investing in window furniture such as sash jammers and locks will help to reduce this risk significantly.
Leading Suppliers Of Window Hardware
At Doorfit, we know a thing or two about keeping your home safe. Explore our hardware options today to find the perfect upgrade for your windows and doors.
For everything else, please contact a member of the team.