Plastic windows and the safety of your home

Plastic windows and the safety of your home

Plastic (PVC) windows are more than insulation and light — they are an important part of your home's security system. A well-chosen profile, glass unit and hardware can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized entry. This article explains what factors affect a window's burglar resistance, which additional options you can consider and how to maintain and check your windows to keep their protective properties effective for years.

Why window security matters

• Windows can be the most vulnerable points of a building facade, especially on ground and attic floors.
• Burglary through windows is often quick and quiet; the right hardware and glass make such attempts much harder.
• Secure windows also reduce injuries from broken glass and protect against weather-related damage.

Key components that affect security

Frame and reinforcement

A high-quality PVC profile with a strong metal reinforcement increases the rigidity of sashes and frames. Multi-chamber profiles also improve structural stability in addition to thermal performance.

Insulated glass unit

Laminated, tempered, or security glazing significantly complicates breaking. A multi-pane IGU with laminated inner layers combines energy efficiency with better protection.

Hardware and locking mechanisms

• Multipoint locking systems, mushroom cams and reinforced keeps enhance resistance to forced entry.
• Lockable handles and tilt-lock devices prevent simple forced opening from the outside.

Additional protective elements

• Roller shutters and external blinds create a physical barrier and provide visual deterrence.
• Grilles and shutters are effective but affect appearance and daylight.
• Glass break sensors and magnetic contacts can be integrated with alarm systems.

Proper installation and quality control

Even the best burglar-resistant hardware loses value with poor installation. Pay attention to:

• Correct opening geometry and rigid anchoring of the frame to the wall.
• Use of appropriate anchors, sealants and mounting foam.
• Post-installation inspection of gaps, sash alignment and hardware operation.

Important: always request a handover certificate and maintenance instructions from the installers.

How to test a window's resistance

1. Visual inspection: no play, sashes close evenly.
2. Handle test: smooth operation without sticking.
3. Check multipoint locking: cams engage all keeps.
4. Lock and tilt functions: can the sash be secured from the inside?

Maintenance and simple upgrades

• Lubricate moving parts 1–2 times a year.
• Clean and inspect seals; replace when worn.
• Retrofit options: add reinforced keeps, upgrade hardware, fit external shutters or alarm sensors.

Myths and realities

• Myth: thicker glass is always better. Reality: the best protection is the right combination of profile, hardware and glazing.
• Myth: exterior shutters solve everything. Reality: shutters help, but do not replace proper hardware and installation.

Conclusions and recommendations

• Treat the window system as a whole: frame + IGU + hardware + installation.
• Invest in multipoint hardware and lockable handles for vulnerable windows.
• Combine solutions when needed: laminated glass + roller shutters + alarm system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What makes a window "burglar-resistant"?

A window with certified anti-intrusion hardware (at least RC1/RC2 class in Europe), laminated glass and reinforced keeps is considered burglar-resistant.

Will adding security options be very expensive?

Costs vary: lockable handles and extra keeps are relatively inexpensive; security glazing and roller shutters are costlier. For ground-floor units and private houses, the investment is often justified.

Can I secure already installed windows?

Yes. Retrofit kits exist: hardware replacement, additional locking points, external shutters, and alarm sensors can upgrade existing windows.

Description: Practical guide on improving home security through proper selection of PVC profiles, IGUs, hardware and installation.

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keywords: "plastic windows, home security, burglar-resistant windows, window hardware, laminated glass, roller shutters, window installation, security sensors",