Why Windows Need Attention
Burglars often use ground floor and back of house windows as entry points. These windows are often out of view from neighbours and standard glass and locks offer only limited protection. Physical barriers work best, and window security grilles offer a best solution for many homes.
How Grilles Protect Your Home
A grille acts as a barrier and a deterrent. As a deterrent, a grille over a window lets the burglar know that the residents take security seriously, and he should move on to the next house. A steel grille over a window takes much more time to break through compared to glass. So the risk of being caught increases for an intruder trying to break through a grille compared to breaking through a window.
Fixed, Removable and Retractable Options
There are a few styles to choose from. Fixed grilles offer the highest level of resistance and are permanently affixed, making them ideal for windows where you can’t fully open them for escape. Removable grilles can be taken down to give access to the window for cleaning or to let in more light. The best style for frequently used windows is a retractable grille, which folds or slides away when not needed.
Think About Fire Safety
Window barriers pose safety concerns, particularly with bedroom windows which are often used as fire escape routes. Bedroom windows may be fitted with a barrier grille which would obstruct the escape route. An occupant should be able to remove a barrier grille from the inside quickly, especially if the key to the barrier grille is located out of reach. Always consult your installer about escape routes before making a final decision about the barrier you wish to purchase.
Materials and Finish
Steel is the strongest and most widely used material for security grilles and shutters. Aluminium is a cheaper, lighter alternative. The powder-coated finish on steel provides a nice, hard finish that helps protect against rust. It also allows colour-matching to your window frames or brickwork. Being colour-matched to your window frames helps the grille be more of an integrated part of the home as opposed to an afterthought.
Appearance and Light
Many homeowners have concerns about grilles looking unfriendly or blocking daylight. Older, heavier grilles can obstruct view and light. Newer designs can be much slimmer and still provide protection. Good designs can actually enhance the character of a period property. Look at some of the best grille designs and you’ll see plenty of examples where the grille actually adds character and charm to a period property.
Fixing and Installation
The way a grille is fixed plays a big part in the strength of that grille. Secure fixings into solid brickwork or an appropriate frame are necessary, and using tamper resistant fittings prevents an intruder from unscrewing the grille. Having a professional install the grille ensures it is the correct size and fits nicely, leaving no gaps.
Grilles for Different Rooms
Not every window requires the same level of security. Kitchen, utility room and downstairs bathroom windows are often small, hidden and ideal for a fixed grille. Living room and bedroom windows may require removable or retractable grilles to provide ventilation and escape. A room by room approach means spending money where it’s most needed and avoiding the claustrophobic feeling of a completely closed in house.
Maintenance and Longevity
Care of a grille is easy. Wiping it down a couple times a year keeps it clean. Checking that fixings are tight every once in a while prevents them from becoming loose. Touching up chips prevents rust. Runners and locks on retractable and removable grilles should be lubricated. A quick annual check keeps a grille operating smoothly.
Combining Grilles With Other Measures
Grilles should be part of a wider approach. Good lighting and alarms, as well as using secure door locks and sensible habits, such as closing your windows when you are out, can really help protect your home. Good grilles complement a well rounded strategy.
Getting Advice Before You Buy
Ask for a survey before ordering. This allows the supplier to accurately measure the windows and identify what’s behind the plaster and/or brick. Request finish samples and test lock mechanisms. Find out how long it will take to complete the fitting. A clear written quotation helps you compare prices. This also prevents any surprises on the day.
Choosing the Right Supplier
Look for a supplier who is a clear communicator and has a working knowledge of fire safety as well as security. Inquire about the materials and finishes being used, as well as the method of attachment. A trusted partner will ensure the solution meets the requirements of your windows and your lifestyle without compromising safety.