The Pros and Cons of different types of Window Security Bars

Window security bars are a big topic currently in South Africa. With so many options to choose from it can be quite daunting to figure out which option is best. With this blog, we would like to make your life easier. We will be looking at the different types of burglar bars and their pros and cons.

Spanish Bars

Spanish window security bars are made from aluminium and have 3 options to choose from. The first option is the normal Spanish Bars which are fitted to the exterior of the home; they are curved and cover the window like a cage allowing the windows to open.

 

 

The second and third option is vertical or horizontal mini Spanish Bars. These bars have the same design as the normal Spanish bars but are fitted on the inside of the window reveal and are not curved.

Pros

• Robust security barrier
• Long-lasting

Cons

• Gives a cage-like look to the exterior or interior of the home
• Can rust
• Cannot be connected to an alarm system

Retractable Window Security Bars

The retractable burglar bars have a similar look to the slam and lock security gates. They are fixed on the interior window pane and can be slid open.

Pros

• Windows can be opened and closed
• They are retractable and can be slid open and closed. Therefore, they won’t obstruct your view when slid open and only use up a small space of the window.
• Made of steel which makes them a strong security barrier
• Ideal for holiday homes or homeowners that just wants to lock up and go

Cons

• Has a caged like look when closed and gives a feeling of imprisonment
• When they are slid open there is no protection and a burglar can easily climb or break through the window.
• They need to remain closed for 24/7 protection
• Can rust
• Cannot be connected to an alarm system

 

Louvre Design Security Shutters

These security bars are fixed to their own frame on the inside of the window reveal and have the appearance of blinds or shutters. The fixing positions are concealed within the frame.

Pros

• More aesthetically pleasing than normal aluminium burglar bars
• Offers security and privacy at the same time
• Increases the value of your property
• Reinforced with hardened steel rods at the end of each shutter fitted into the window frame making it robust

Cons

• Only offers the ultimate protection when completely closed
• Cannot be connected to an alarm system

 

Safety Bars

Safety Bars are clear burglar bars made from polycarbonate. They can be installed directly on the window frame or within a specially designed AluRail column that is fitted in the window frame.

Pros

• Aesthetically pleasing which is more pleasing to the eye
• Protect your children from falling out of windows
• Keep unwanted animals out of your home
• Made from polycarbonate, this material is durable and very strong
• Rust free
• Increase the value of your property

Cons

• Can be cut or melted through
• Not connected to an alarm system

 

Armed Bars

Armed Bars are clear burglar bars designed with Smart Bar Technology. This technology allows these burglar bars to be connected to any alarm system. These window security bars can be fitted directly onto the window frame or inside the window frame.

Pros

• Aesthetically pleasing and gives you a clear view from the outside or the inside of your home or business
• Made from LEXAN polycarbonate making it strong, durable, and almost unbreakable
• Can be integrated with any alarm system giving you 24/7 alarm protection. If anyone tries to cut through, meld, or break these bars the alarm will go off.
• No accidental false alarms
• Strong fixing options available
• Some fixing options have a 10-year breakthrough warranty
• UV protected on both sides
• Increase the value of your property

Cons

• You have it not installed?

 

Hopefully, with all this helpful information you will be able to make an informed decision. If you are still unsure of which option would be best suited for you, you are more than welcome to contact us.