Protecting Your Investment: Security Upgrades Worth Considering

Are you looking for ways to keep your home as secure as possible? Every year thousands of homeowners experience break-ins that can be prevented by making security upgrades around the house. The problem is that most burglaries occur through the weakest point of a home's exterior. Enter windows. Luckily window installation technology isn't what it used to be. Homeowners now have options that make their windows nearly impossible to break into. What you'll learn: -  Why Windows Are a Security Vulnerability -  Security Window Installation Options That Actually Work -  How to Pick the Best Upgrade for Your Home -  How to Protect Your Home (and Your Investment) Security Begins with the Windows Did you know… According to burglary research done by ADT security, 23% of break-ins occur through first-floor windows. That means almost 1 out of 4 burglaries. Why? Because windows are vulnerable. All it takes is a few seconds with a rock or brick for an intruder to smash most standard windows. Once the glass is broken, there's nothing stopping a burglar from reaching through and opening the window from the inside. And that is why homeowners are rushing to install windows that prioritise home security. After all, what good is an alarm system if someone can simply break a window to steal valuables before the cops arrive? But don't just upgrade to any windows. As with most things home-security related, not all window installation options are created equal. In fact, the level of security your new windows provide will depend on the type of glass installed. For maximum security, some homeowners are even choosing to install bullet-proof-windows that burglars can't break through. Window Installation Options that Increase Security Ready to learn about your options? From laminate to bullet-proof, there are a variety of window installation upgrades that can help secure your home. Here's the breakdown… Security Laminated Glass If you're looking for an affordable, security-minded option, start with laminated glass. Made of two pieces of glass with an inner layer sandwiched between, laminated glass cracks when struck but holds together. This makes it impossible for burglars to break the window and reach inside. Pros include: -  Glass adheres to the frame when broken -  Bad guys can't easily create new points of entry -  Provides UV protection as a bonus -  Inexpensive compared to other options Laminated security glass is a great option for most people looking to secure their home. Impact-Resistant Window Installation Impact-resistant windows are another great choice for homeowners. Originally designed for coastal homes in high wind areas, impact-resistant windows are just as effective against intruders as hurricanes. Featuring incredibly durable frames and impact-resistant glass, these windows are tough to crack. And when we say crack, we mean crack. Burglars can still break the glass on impact-resistant windows. They just won't be able to create an opening without special tools and a lot of time. Instead, most criminals will keep searching for easier targets. Bullet Proof? Polycarbonate Security Windows Now we're talking serious security. Polycarbonate panels are a relatively new option for security-minded homeowners. These panels are 250 times stronger than glass, and often installed to look like traditional window installations. Think about it… If a burglar tries to smash your polycarbonate windows, they won't get far. These sheets can stand up to sledgehammers, pry bars — you name it. Most burglary tools can't scratch polycarbonate window installations. Bonus? Polycarbonate security panels can sometimes be installed over your existing windows. This allows you to upgrade without replacing the entire window frame. How Security Windows Help Keep Your Home Safe Here's the thing about home security… Burglars don't want to be caught. They typically spend between 10-12 minutes inside your home and move pretty quickly while they're there. The moment your windows become difficult to break, they'll move on. Thank you and good luck targeting another home. Researchers at UNC Charlotte found that 60% of convicted burglars said they would look for a new house to hit if they noticed home security devices. Just one statistic, but it reveals how effective security windows can be. Pick the Right Window Security Upgrade for You Like most things related to home security, the best window installation solution depends on your needs. Ask yourself: -  How much are you looking to spend? -  Do you live in a high-crime area? -  Are you looking for added weather protection? -  Do your windows need to be replaced, or can they be upgraded? For most homeowners, laminated security glass is the perfect balance between security and cost. It won't make your windows bullet proof, but it will keep the average burglar moving on. If you live in a crime-ridden neighbourhood or surrounded by cash grabbers, consider spending a little more on impact-resistant windows or even polycarbonate panels. Hire the Right Installers Ok, one last thing before you go bouncing down to the hardware store… Make sure you hire professional window installation services that specialise in security windows. If done incorrectly, your new security windows can become future vulnerabilities. Take the time to hire professionals who know how to reinforce frames and properly seal your windows. Trust me. It's worth the peace of mind. Other Security Upgrades to Pair with Windows Ok, so you know about windows. But they're only one part of comprehensive home security. While upgraded windows can deter burglars, try adding these security upgrades to homeowners for maximum protection: -  Door deadbolts -  Motion sensor lights -  Security cameras -  Door frame reinforcement When it comes to home security, layers are your friend. Thieves want an easy target. The more security features you have, the less attractive your home becomes. Wrapping Things Up: Secure Your Home Today Keeping your home safe really isn't all that difficult. Between laminate, bullet-proof, and impact-resistant window installations, there's an option for every homeowner. Don't wait until it's too late. The majority of home breaks can be prevented with a little know-how and effort. Start by evaluating your windows. Look for vulnerable entry points around your home. Once you find them, take steps to correct the problem. It doesn't matter which security window option you choose. Any sort of upgrade will help deter criminals. And when it comes to your biggest investment, that's all that matters.