Window Home Security For Different Window Types
by: Owen Walcher
Window home security begins with ensuring that all your first floor windows are tightly shut and locked throughout the day and night. The same holds true for second floor windows if you have a tree growing next to your house. Next, you can increase window home security by reinforcing what you already have.
Window Home Security for Double-Hung Windows
Your double-hung windows probably came with thumb latches. Increase window home security by replacing the latches with keyed locking mechanisms. If the extra expense is a problem, here’s an alternative:
1. Drill a sloping hole downward into the top frame of the lower window.
2. Drill through into the bottom frame of the upper window.
3. Insert a metal pin that’s long enough to remove by hand. (Hint: Use the pin of a carriage bolt.)
Window Home Security for Sliding Windows
Just like sliding doors, sliding windows can also be easily lifted up off their tracks, giving intruders easy access. But you have three alternatives to increase sliding window home security.
1. Wood pole/dowel. If you slip this into the upper channel of a sliding window, it can stop it from being taken off its track. Just make sure you fit the pole so the window can still slide.
2. Sheet metal screw. Drill holes and install the screws across the top into the upper channel. Choose a screw head that’s big enough so it doesn’t drop down, but make sure the window can still slide freely.
3. Anti-slide product. There are commercial products specifically designed to secure sliding doors and windows. Choose the jamb, screw-on device, lock, or bolt that’s right for you.
Window Home Security for Louvered Windows
Did you know that an unsecured louvered window is a bad security risk? Such poor window home security can both jack up your home security insurance premiums and make you a favorite of burglars as well. You have three options.
1. Glue it. Use industrial strength glue (e.g., epoxy) to attach panes to frame permanently.
2. Replace it. Use instead a fixed frame of solid glass or another kind of ventilated window.
3. Secure it. Install a metal grill or grating.
Window Home Security for Fire Exits
You should always leave a window in each bedroom available to serve as a fire exit, especially for kids and houseguests. When you’re at home or asleep at night, police and fire departments recommend that you leave the key next to the window or inside the lock for easy exit during a fire.
Owen Walcher is an Intrepreneur writing articles on subjects such as window home security.
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