Windows are one of the most common ways burglars access homes. They’re often easier to break into than doors, and they can be used to shield your front door from view while a criminal works inside.
That’s why all ground-floor windows should be protected with window sensors, also known as contact alarms. They’re simple to install but make a big difference in your home security.
Frame
Many basic home security systems include door and window sensors communicating with a central hub when the windows are opened. This can activate an alarm or call for authorities if the system is advanced enough. But if you’re serious about home safety and security, you must look beyond the basics, especially regarding your windows. That’s why having well-maintained windows that are properly secured can make a big difference in your family’s safety, as it’ll be more difficult for burglars to break in through them. Similarly, getting new shatter-proof windows can help reduce your home’s vulnerability.
Locks
If your windows don’t have locks, they’re an easy entry point for burglars. Many thieves case neighborhoods before deciding where to rob, and homes without security systems or solid exterior doors are a more likely target.
Luckily, there are plenty of options for securing your windows. You can start with window sensors that notify you whenever the windows are open. This can be great for letting houseguests or pet sitters in, but it can also help you keep track of toddlers and elderly adults who tend to wander from bed in the middle of the night.
Another option is a smart lock, which lets you control your home’s locks via smartphone. These locks are designed to work over the Z-Wave wireless protocol, which is much like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi but offers higher security standards. They’re getting more affordable all the time, too. Some even have built-in sensors that let you know when a window has been opened, which is a big help in keeping kids and elderly adults out of some regions of the house.
Glass
One of the most common ways burglars get into homes is through windows. The right window upgrades can help prevent home invasions and improve overall window safety.
A basic security system typically includes door and window sensors communicating with a central hub when activated. If these are triggered, they can start your alarm or send you a mobile alert to warn you that someone may be entering.
If you want an extra layer of protection, a home security system with a built-in camera can monitor your windows for signs of break-ins. Then, if the camera detects something, it will alert you and possibly notify local authorities.
Another option for improving window security is installing double-hung windows with operable sashes on the top and bottom. This helps keep children from opening windows without your permission and makes it harder for burglars to climb in. Moreover, tempered glass is much safer to use in your windows because it breaks into smaller, less dangerous pieces instead of large shards.
Sensors
Door and window sensors are the backbone of many home security systems. They let you know if someone attempts to break in, and they can deter criminals with loud alarms that can sound like a bell or even an air raid siren.
These magnetic devices with two parts line up and form an electrical circuit. When a window opens, the magnet separates from the sensor and triggers a reed switch that sends a signal to your alarm panel.
You can choose between wireless surface-mounted and hardwired recessed options. Some use PIR (passive infrared) motion sensors that detect changes in ambient temperature, including body heat. However, they are prone to false alarms, such as from pets or a breeze blowing through. Most systems allow you to turn off this feature for peace of mind. Other sensors use vibration or sound to warn against breaking. They can be used to monitor basement windows, for example, or to keep tabs on toddlers or elders that may wander from their rooms.
