All of our windows are proudly made in Canada. 
You installed large glass windows because they brought sunlight and visual appeal into your building.
People within can enjoy the view, and they will feel happier because they get to soak up more vitamin D; making glass windows ideal for your home or business.
However, while these windows have many advantages, they have one key disadvantage that you will have to make up for. They pose a security risk. To keep your home or business safe, you will have to supplement your glass windows with a few extra security measures.
Why Do Glass Windows Pose a Security Risk?
With one simple look, you can tell that glass doesn’t have the same strengths as other materials. This means that your glass doors make your home or business more vulnerable to certain dangers, including:
- Burglars: Intruders love seeing glass windows. The large glass sheets give them an easy access point. They can simply shatter the glass, and the faster they can get to your valuables, the more confident they feel about getting away with the theft.
- Playtime accidents: If your children/employees like to play sports around the building, an errant baseball or other item could crack the glass.
- Severe weather: Hail could crack the glass, as could any heavy, windblown object, like a tree branch. Floodwaters could also break the glass.
Compared to other materials, glass has some serious weaknesses.
Should You Just Replace Your Large Glass Windows?
If the information above alarmed you, you have probably considered foregoing your glass windows and choosing a stronger option. However, before you do that, consider the advantages that glass gives you:
- Your glass windows let in natural light, which boosts mood and energy.
- The natural light makes the space look more appealing.
- The natural light helps you save on electricity costs.
- The large windows make the space look bigger.
Your home or business looks more inviting because of those large windows, so you should consider carefully before removing them. Glass doors have some important benefits, despite their disadvantages. And you don’t have to deal with those disadvantages as long as you find ways to burglar-proof your home.
How Do You Make Your Home More Secure?
Security Systems and Alarms
If you do nothing else, purchase a security system of some kind. This security system should have a few key components:
- It should contact the authorities immediately after triggering.
- It should include a motion alarm. This should frighten a burglar away before he or she even touches the glass.
- Even if it doesn’t, it will make him or her feel stressed and careless while breaking in.
- It should include a shatter alarm. Since motion alarms may go off when a cat or a tree branch gets too close, the authorities may not respond as quickly. However, a shatter alarm will signal that you really need help.
You should also consider installing cameras around your home. You can install small, unimposing ones so you don’t alarm customers or guests. Just keep them in plain sight so burglars know you mean business. Post signs about your alarm system around your property as well.
Reinforced Glass
Consider adding a film to reinforce the glass in your windows. You can also purchase reinforced glass, which also includes a film. This film holds the glass shards together even after they shatter, slowing an intruder’s entry. Strong reinforced glass may keep burglars out completely. The longer it takes to break into your home, the more likely a burglar will give up and run away.
If you use the information above, you can have the best of both worlds. You will have a secure home without sacrificing aesthetic value. Use these tips to burglar-proof your glass windows today. If you are looking for windows in Vancouver, contact your local glass expert at RetroTeck Window.