One question that we get asked quite a bit is around how to secure a basement window. Basement windows can sometimes be a very easy target for potential burglars as homeowners usual do not take the proper precautions. Good basement window security will not only give you and your significant other peace of mind but also help in detering burglars and thieves.
Visible Basement Windows:
One of the best and easiest things that you can do to secure the window in your basement is to make sure it’s visible to the outside world. Yeah, sounds kind of contradictory, but it’s true. Burglars and thieves love to work under a cloak of darkness and if you make it easy for them by trying to hide your basement window behind shrubs and plants, it makes their job a little easier in that they can “hide” while they are doing it. This is easy cover and it’s easier for them to conceal themselves behind a big bush right in front of your window. Do yourself a favor and get rid of the flower garden in front of your basement window.
Install a Home Security System:
Having a home security system installed that is monitored is one of the best ways to prevent someone from breaking in. Well, maybe not prevent, but definitely deter. Get a good one that will not only trigger the silent alarms, but will also be loud enough to “wake-the-neighbors” in case someone trys. To be effective in the basement though it should include monitored windows. Install glass break sensors in alarm system in all rooms with windows. That way when someone open it up, the alarm goes off. Not only that, be proud of it. Show it off. Most companies that install monitored security systems will provide you with all the signs and stickers you would need. Get a couple extra and post them both outside your basement window and on it.
Can Someone Look In Your Basement?
If someone standing in your yard or on the street can peer in and see that nobody is home or around through your uncovered basement window, you might have a problem. This makes for an easy entry point for a would be criminal to see that you’re not home. Make sure to get some good blinds or curtains to block the view into your basement. If they can’t see in to see if anyone is home, it will help in slowing them down and at least making them think before acting.
Install Shatterproof Glass:
As a security measure, all first floor windows should have shatterproof glass installed. This holds true for your basement as well. Just remember, not all windows come with shatter-resistant glass, you’ll likely have to ask for this when having your basement window installed or simply replacing the glass in your current window. Just check with a local glass shop on the different types of shatterproof glass available (tempered, laminated, or plexiglass).
Install Security Film to the Glass:
This is an easy one for those DIY types. Simply install some high quality window security film to the window in your basement. Not only will it help eliminate forced entry for those smash and grab criminals by adding a protective barrier to the glass, but it will also help in case of storms by keeping the window in tact if something flies about and hits it. Others will shatter and go all over the place, but a window protected with security film will shatter and stay together.
Use Good Lighting Outside
Let’s face it. Most break-in’s occur during the night. The criminals will look for unlit, easy entry points like back doors and bottom floor windows. If your basement window is in an area that’s concealed or is really dark at night, use some good lighting outside the window to keep it very visible. A crook doesn’t want to be seen and if you make it so that there is a chance that he (or she) will, then they’ll likely look for an easier target. Having a good lighting source set on some kind of timer that will turn on when it gets dark just outside your window will help with that.
Other Tips That Didn’t Make The List:
There are other methods that you’ll hear around that quite simply I’m just not a big fan of but I’ll list some of them here. You could install security bars in your windows, just make sure that they are up to code and work properly, especially if these are egress windows. But I’m not a big fan of those, what is this, your home or a prison? Besides, I think they look kind of tacky. You could use a lock and key system on the windows, but again just make sure they fit to your local building codes. Personally, I think lock and key systems are better for doors than windows and if there ever is an emergency and I’m trapped, I don’t want to be looking around for a key to get out. You’ll also likely hear a lot about making the window impassable by putting stuff in front of it to “startle” an intruder. Bleh!! Why bother, if they want in and that’s your defense you are really not going to stop them that way. Besides, I think it detracts from the beauty of having a window in your basement if you are just going to put stuff in front of it.
Just be smart, follow the 6 tips to securing your basement windows and do what you feel comfortable with. Bottom line is you’ve got to live there so whatever measure you need to take to feel secure, go for it.
