house windows | Residential windows | Windows for home

Windows are relatively easy to break and can provide easy access to your home, some homeowners are switching to stronger "no break" security windows.

House Break windows and glass patio doors have reinforced framing and break-resistant glass much like the glass used in auto windshields.

The double-pained glass windows are supposed to be strong enough to stand up to baseball bats, bowling balls, and (perhaps more realistic on the home security front) crowbars. The outermost pane may shatter, but the inner glass is reinforced and won't allow penetration. A secondary deadbolt lock lets you open the windows partially to allow in fresh air without compromising security.

These windows are also a good idea in earthquake zones like California since you don't need to worry about shattering glass striking family members.

Inadequately protected windows are easy marks for intruders who have an arsenal of tricks for the quickest, easiest ways to force them. But by safeguarding your home's windows is neither difficult nor expensive.

Start by checking the windows in your house including those in the basement and the garage and any second-story windows that would be easy to reach from the ground. Make a list of each one noting its type (such as double-hung or casement) and the kind of lock it now has.

You'll probably need to replace or at least renew the locks on most of them. As you consider the new locks and fastening devices you'll learn about here, also keep fire safety in mind. For example, if you install keyed locks, you'll want to keep keys nearby and make sure everyone in your family knows where they are in case of an emergency.

If you've identified a few windows that you think are especially vulnerable, you may feel that even sturdy locks aren't sufficient protection. In that case, consider replacing the standard glazing with impact-resistant acrylic or polycarbonate or with high-security glass. Or, where appearance isn't of prime importance, install a metal grille outside the window or a scissors-type security gate on the inside.

Be aware that although some gates have quick-release levers for emergency exits, a stationary grille will render the window useless as an exit in the event of a fire.