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Window Bars
Heavy duty metal security bars are generally
installed on windows for two reasons. One
is to prevent break ins from the outside.
In this case the bars are most frequently
found on basement or ground floor windows.
Merely installing bars can act as a major
deterrent, as a thief will often move on
to an easier target. The other reason for
security bars is to prevent the serious or
fatal injury to small children from falling
out of windows, usually above the first floor.
Security bars are most frequently
made of
iron or steel. They can be ordered
from specialty
manufacturers to fit standard
size openings
or custom made to fit any window.
The least
expensive types will be plain
and utilitarian
looking, but beautifully designed
bars that
enhance the appearance of any
building are
also available. These decorative
bars are
most effective if they harmonize
with the
architectural style of the building.
Consider the following when buying
security
bars for your windows:
- The larger the window opening, the more bars
are necessary. Openings less
than 14 inches
in width or height can be protected
by a
set of horizontal bars, but
windows over
14 inches require the addition
of vertical
bars.
- Fixed security bars are the most economical,
but they are permanently installed and will
not open. Make sure the room has an escape
route in case of a fire.
- Hinged bars swing open for easy window cleaning
and repair. They can be secured with a padlock
or an internal keyless release locking system.
This release system may be required by building
codes if the window serves as a secondary
escape route for bedrooms or habitable basement
space.
- Removable bars are a good choice for situations
where security is only periodically necessary,
for instance in vacation homes or store fronts.
- Look for security bars that are made by inserting
round steel rods into the steel tubing the
bars are made from. These rods cause the
bars to spin if an attempt is made to saw
through them, making it difficult to create
the friction required to cut through the
bars.
Security bars can be combined with alarm systems that will go off if the bars are tampered
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