Window Security & Burglary Protection

How to Secure your Windows against Intruders

Home security begins windows and doors. Being essentially large openings in the facade, they are the top entry points for potential intruders. However, they don't have to be. Modern technology and design offers a wide range of ways to improve both safety and security while deterring burglars. From special glazing to multipoint locks, locking handles and even roller shutters, today's windows can easily be custom built to meet the security needs of any home and location.

Home Security for Windows & Doors

Even better than preventing successful break-in is deterring them before they happen. Most criminals surveil their target beforehand. This creates the opportunity to convince them to look elsewhere and deter the attempt itself by fitting some or all of the following options:

Multi-point locks with integrated mushroom cams
Laminated or impact resistant glass
Locking handles (button or key)
Installing an electronic alarm system
Installing lights on automatic timers
Roller shutters which further complicate entry and increase security

Most new homeowners agree that security and thermal insulation are the most important features in windows and doors. When purchasing new ones, the list of options can sometimes seem daunting. That is why a standardised system was created.

Window Fittings

Resistance Class Levels & Window Security

In order to be able to compare the protection that different types and models of doors or windows provide, a standard system was created with six different levels of security.

The Resistance Class (RC) measures the amount of time a window or door is able to withstand forced entry attempts using particular sets of tools:

Resistance Class (RC)	Minimum Resistance Time	Burglar / Tools
1	Not available	Simple burglary attempt / physical force
2/ 2 N	3 Minutes	Opportunist burglar / simple tools
3	5 Minutes	Inexperienced burglar / additional screwdriver and crowbar
4	10 Minutes	Experienced burglar / saw, axe, hammer, electric screwdriver
5	15 Minutes	Experienced burglar / additional power tools such as angle grinders
6	20 Minutes	Experienced burglar / additional high-performance power tools such as jigsaws

Except for RC1, all resistance class levels require a test certificate. In general, classes RC 1 to 3 typically suffice for most private homes. However, when it comes to efficient burglary protection for windows, it is important to first consider where the window will be installed. RC 1 can guarantee adequate security for higher floors, but police recommend at least class 2 windows for ground floors. In rural and more remote areas, or when items of significant value are involved, upgrading to RC 3 is recommended.

RC 2, 2N or 3 - which Type of Glazing provides reliable Burglary Protection?

When it comes to burglary protection, glazing tends to be the most expensive part of a window. Nevertheless, it is still a bargain compared to the financial and mental cost of burglary. A typical RC 2 class window is usually equipped with mushroom cams and a glazing element made of burglary-proof P4A glass, with many models also offering handle locks. In contrast, RC 2N models do not have this kind of glazing they are equipped with standard glass and lack any additional security measures.

Police statistics have shown that burglars tend to refrain from smashing windows in densely populated areas due to noise and increased likelihood of being caught. Therefore, in urban areas with little danger, laminated safety glass may not be absolutely necessary. Use common sense based on the safety of your neighborhood and whether or not you have many valuables (e.g. a collection of very expensive items). However, for rural areas or high value properties, upgrading to a higher RC level and employing laminated safety glass or impact resistant class is the best option.

fly screens

glazing

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