Windows are often the weakest point of entry for burglars. While modern multi-point locking mechanisms on uPVC windows offer good primary security, older timber windows, ground-floor units, and external access points remain vulnerable. Upgrading window security is an essential step in protecting your family and valuables.
This guide focuses on technical and physical upgrades that a professional window fitter can install to significantly enhance resistance against forced entry and reduce the risk of glass breakage.
Upgrade 1: Toughened glass vs. laminated security glass
Standard glazing (even double glazing) is designed to break easily to allow escape in the event of a fire. Security-focused glazing is designed to do the opposite—resist shattering and remain in the frame.
- Toughened Glass: This glass shatters into small, safe cubes when broken, reducing injury risk. It does not offer meaningful security against a sustained attack, as the cubes fall away quickly.
- Laminated Security Glass: This is the gold standard. It consists of two or more panes bonded together with a flexible, high-strength plastic interlayer (PVB or SentryGlas). When broken, the glass cracks but the interlayer holds the pane together, keeping the intruder out.
Upgrade 2: Window security film installation cost and use
For homeowners with existing, structurally sound glass they don’t want to replace, security window film offers a cost-effective alternative to laminated glass.
- Mechanism: A clear, strong film is applied to the interior face of the glass. When the glass is struck and shatters, the film holds all the pieces together in the frame, preventing entry and creating a strong deterrent.
- Benefits: It also offers UV protection and, depending on the film, can provide basic solar or acoustic protection.
Upgrade 3: Frame, Beading, and Hardware Enhancements
Security is only as good as the frame and fittings. A professional installer will check these often-overlooked weak spots:
Internal beading window security
- The Risk: Most older windows are externally beaded, meaning the glass unit can be easily removed from the outside by an intruder using a simple putty knife to pry out the glazing beads.
- The Fix: When replacing windows, choose internally beaded models. For existing windows, a fitter can often modify or replace the beads with security clips to prevent easy removal of the glass unit from the exterior.
Specialist locking hardware
- Sash Stops/Locks: For traditional sash windows, additional metal sash stops can be installed that prevent the window from being lifted more than a couple of inches, maintaining ventilation while securing against entry.
- Hinge Bolts: For external doors or ground-floor casement windows, extra bolts (sometimes called dog bolts) can be fitted inside the frame to prevent the sash from being prised open on the hinge side.
Window security bars installation and physical barriers
In very high-risk areas, window bars may be required.
- Grilles and Bars: These should be professionally fitted directly into the masonry or timber frame, not just screwed into the window frame itself. They can be fixed, hinged, or designed as bespoke, decorative wrought iron.
- Grille Regulations: If installing bars on an escape route window (like a bedroom), the bars must be hinged or removable and fitted with a quick-release mechanism that is accessible without a key from the inside to meet fire safety regulations.
Hiring a professional not only makes sure the security upgrades comply with insurance standards and are installed correctly, they also ensure the integrity and weatherproofing of the windows are maintained.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.
