With over 200,000 burglaries reported last year, security is an important concern for any homeowner. Windows and doors are the most obvious and easy-to-access entry points for criminals looking to break in to a property – so they’re a smart place to start if you’re looking to enhance security.
In years gone by timber windows and doors have attracted an unfair reputation for being less secure than uPVC and aluminium options, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Here we explain how timber windows can enable you to enjoy the best of both worlds, achieving your ideal style with the level of security you need.
Are timber windows secure?
In general, windows (along with doors) are understandably considered to the be weakest points when it comes to a property’s overall security. The challenge is striking a balance between function, style and safety, ensuring that windows look beautiful and are easy to use on a daily basis, whilst also offering sufficient protection against potential intruders.
Timber windows have attracted a bit of a bad rep for security in recent years, mostly because of old fashioned frames which have suffered extensive decay, making them a particularly easy target. Over time (and without proper care and maintenance), older frames can start to show visible signs of wear and tear, opening up your property to the risk of theft and even attracting would-be burglars. Rotting wooden window units, broken or loose hinges, rattling glass and faulty locks can all make breaking and entering a property much easier for opportunistic criminals.
Timber itself is a robust and durable material, however, and high-quality timber windows are made to stand the test of time. Many window units we bring in for restoration have been in situ for decades – some more than 100 years. And this is where the comparison becomes unfair. uPVC and aluminium windows have not been used for such a long period of time. So comparing a 100 year old window to a 10 year old window is always going to skew the results in one direction.
Wooden window frames can certainly deliver a robust level of security for any property – but as is the case with alternatives such as aluminium and uPVC, proper care and maintenance is needed. And that’s really the key consideration. If a window is maintained, then the frame won’t be the weak point of entry. Instead it will be the lock.
How can timber window frames enhance security?
Modern timber frames offer a level of security which is on a par with uPVC or aluminium options. Although we use many of the same techniques that have been employed for hundreds of years by the joiners and craftsmen who came before us, the materials and tools at our disposal now enable us to enhance the security features of timber units, offering a traditional look and feel with complete peace of mind. Tough, durable timbers are used to ensure frames stay solid and secure, and timber frames also lend themselves to hardware and fittings which further strengthens and fortifies each unit. This means that securing your home is generally as simple as having your existing frames repaired, restored, upgraded or fully replaced, where necessary.
Some homeowners also opt for secondary glazing – where an external frame (usually made from aluminium) is fixed securely in front of your existing window unit. These additional frames don’t tend to alter the appearance of your property too much as they are designed to be inconspicuous, and they act as an additional physical barrier between you home and potential intruders. These frames are usually extremely difficult to open from the outside and prevent would-be thieves from tampering with locks and catches or removing glass from the window unit itself. This option does offer a significantly enhanced level of security, but it’s usually only necessary under exceptional circumstances such as vandalism concerns, noisy areas or increased exposure to the elements.
What added features can further improve the security of your property?
If you’re looking to upgrade your existing window frames with a more secure, modern solution, there are a number of options available. Which is best will depend on the state of your existing windows, their age and the style and configuration of the units.
Unlike uPVC windows, timber frames are usually custom made to order, which gives you greater flexibility and a much wider choice when it comes to additional features which can enhance home security:
Multi-point locking systems: Even the oldest sash and casement windows often feature elaborate locking systems – but new versions have been significantly upgraded for longevity, enhanced security and ease of use. Also known as espagnolette locking, these systems secure the frames in several places making it incredibly difficult to forcibly open or push them through.
Laminated or toughened glass: However strong a frame is, the glass fitted within in must also be tough enough to withstand a break-in attempt. One of the easiest ways for intruders to gain entry to a property is through breaking or compromising the glass. Laminated or toughened glass is made from several sheets bonded together with a special plastic interlayer, making them much harder to break. Typically known as P1 or P1a glass, many properties opt to have just the ground floor or most vulnerable points covered with these additional measures to keep costs lower.
Window sensors: These can be added to any type of window and can be integrated within a wider security system to detect when a window has been opened or tampered with and sound the alarm.
Fortified hinged and bolts: One key concern with wooden windows is that they can be easier to break through using brute force. Modern timbers are incredibly tough, but we also use specialised high-security hinges and bolts within construction to protect the frames from brute force.
Internal or external beading: Another issue in the past with older frames was loose glass – where the glazing hasn’t been as securely affixed to the frame as it should be. In contemporary timber window units, the glazing is securely fixed in place with both internal or external beading, making it extremely difficult for potential intruders to remove the glass simply by taking off the beading.
Contemporary timber windows (and doors) can also be specially certified for complete peace of mind. PAS24 (short for Product Assessment Specification) is an industry testing standard that measures and certifies the security performance of modern window units. PAS24 certification is available for all types of timber windows including traditional styles such as casement, sash and box sash units.
In some cases, older windows are unfortunately beyond repair due to rotten frames or cracked or damaged glazing. In this instance it’s almost impossible to secure the windows in situ, so replacement windows offer the best solution. Designed and carefully crafted to perfectly suit the aesthetic of your historic property, contemporary sash and casement windows can be made from durable solid hardwood with double glazing and lockable hardware built in for enhanced security as standard.
Timber windows must be properly designed, manufactured and installed to offer a high standard of security. Speak to us today to find out more or to discuss your project in more detail.
