Homeowners go to great lengths to make their homes as safe and secure as possible. Upgrades can range from replacing locks on exterior doors to installing full-home security systems. But windows are often one of the most vulnerable areas of the home and an easy access point if people want to get inside. Older, visibly damaged windows can put the home at risk. With replacement windows in Seattle, WA homeowners can vastly improve safety and security. Here are a few ways new windows keep homes safe.
Reinforced Frames
The frame materials on old windows are not as robust as the frame materials used in modern manufacturing. Today, new windows come in vinyl, aluminum, wood, fiberglass, and various combinations of composite materials. The manufacturers go above and beyond to make sure new windows are as strong, durable, and impact resistant as possible. With proper care and maintenance, new windows can easily protect the home for 20 years or more.
Secure Window Styles
Certain windows styles prove more secure than others. And getting replacement windows is the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a window style better suited to protecting the home. Some of the most secure options on the market are picture windows, simply for the fact that these windows do not open and close. The only way through the window would be to break it. Casement windows are also considered to be extremely secure. The locking mechanism is located on the inside of the window and they are almost impossible to pry open from the outside.
Improved Locking Systems
Modern locking systems on new windows play an important role in home security. Every new window on the market must pass rigorous forced entry tests. Some windows come with lever-action locks homeowners must set manually. Other windows have locking systems that latch automatically when the window closes. Some homeowners even choose to upgrade to a window operating control device (WOCD) that only allows windows to open four inches unless the device is manually unlocked from the inside.
Safety Glass
Safety glass is a useful modern window technology. There are different methods manufacturers use for safety glass. To make tempered glass the manufacturers heat the substance to an extreme temperature and rapidly cool it. This improves tensile strength. The tempered glass will not shatter easily, and if it does break the pieces shatter into smaller cubes instead of large dangerous shards. To make impact-resistant glass the manufacturers adhere two panes of glass to a polyvinyl butyral interlayer. It makes the glass stronger. And if the glass breaks it still remains largely intact.
Privacy Glass
Another way to improve home security is by limiting how much people can see inside. Etched privacy glass is one upgrade to keep in mind when shopping for new windows. Intruders want to see what is inside before breaking in. Installing etched glass will increase privacy. And homeowners can find a range of custom designs to complement the style of their home and stave off prying eyes.
If you are looking to improve the security and safety of your home, consider getting replacement windows in Seattle, WA. Contact Signature Window & Door Replacement to learn more about protecting your home.
