Lock down your windows
People often take great care to make sure their doors are securewe give some tips in “Security for your doors.” You should also pay attention to your windowsthey’ll work just as well for persistent burglars. This is a particular issue for homes with older windows which are only secured with latches. All latches should be replaced with window security locks. When installing these, make sure they are of good quality, but also make sure that they can be seen from the outside. This can help to prevent window damage in the case that the thief decides to try their luck before giving up.Window bars are another option for presenting a visual deterrent to burglars, but some people prefer that their windows’ ventilation be unobstructed. In this case, an alarm screen might work better. An alarm screen is a mesh grid of wires that sets off an alarm if tampered with. The grid will set off an alarm if the burglar attempts to cut the wires or remove the screen from the window frame. Alarm screens have an obvious benefit in visual appearance, and can be easily integrated with the rest of your home security system.Even if you decide not to install bars or a screen, you can improve your window security by replacing your window material. While some trespassers may hesitate to break glass due to the noise and possibility of leaving a blood sample, others will be undeterred. Polycarbonate thermoplastic is a popular replacement for glass. This material is nearly indestructiblemost assaults against it will only result in bruised hands for the attacker. Laminated glass is another option. Although this glass can still shatter, an internal layer (generally polyvinyl butyral) will prevent the glass from breaking apart. This is the same material commonly used in car windshields.Security film can be easily added to normal glass windows. This film completely covers the glass and keeps the material from breakinga sort of external version of laminated glass. While it’s primarily designed to prevent injury during impact, it has the added bonus of blocking entry through otherwise vulnerable windows.Don’t neglect your windows when it comes to your home security. Some burglars are more persistent than others, and a well-secured door will not always stand in their way.