When safeguarding your home, outdated windows and doors might be the weak links in your defense.
Many homeowners overlook how vulnerable older window and door systems can be, but with modern advancements in home security, there's no need to compromise between aesthetics and safety.
Here Duncan Newman explores the key vulnerabilities of older systems and how today’s innovations provide a more secure environment for your family.
Outdated Windows and Doors: The Security Risk You Didn’t Know You Had
If your home still has single-pane windows or basic door locks, you may be unknowingly leaving your home exposed to potential break-ins.
According to Duncan, “If you've got an existing single-pane set of windows, with single-strength glass, anyone with a tool could smash the glass and climb into your house. It's not a good situation.”
He goes on to explain how the problem extends beyond the glass itself. “Anyone with a pry bar or screwdriver can literally push it underneath your existing window frame, pry up, lift it, and move the window out of the way. Then, they’re in.”
Older locks also pose significant risks. In many cases, people think they’ve secured their home by simply closing their windows, but without engaging the lock properly, they may be leaving their windows unlocked.
“People go out, close the window, and forget to turn the lockdown,” Duncan warns. “Your window is basically not locked, and someone can just open it and help themselves in.”
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Modern Solutions: A Revolution in Window and Door Security
Thankfully, advancements in window and door design have drastically reduced these vulnerabilities. Newman shares how modern systems are built with safety in mind. “Window manufacturers now have to comply with the forced entry code for California, which gives much more security,” Duncan says.
Key innovations include “anti-lift clips” that prevent windows from being easily removed from their frames and “fresh air vent stops” that allow windows to be left slightly open for airflow while still preventing unauthorized entry.
“These vent stops will allow you to open your window a little for fresh air, but no one can open the window further to break in,” Duncan says.
For doors, multi-point locking systems are now the norm, securing the door in multiple places—far more effective than the single-point locks of old.
“You turn the handle up, and you’ll have locks that secure you into the frame in four places: the threshold, the top of the door, and the frame itself,” he explains.
Security and Aesthetics: No Need to Sacrifice One for the Other
One of the best features of modern security upgrades is that they are designed to blend seamlessly into your home’s aesthetic. “The most wonderful part about all of these changes is that most of the security features are hidden within the working parts of the window,” Newman notes. This means homeowners no longer rely on unsightly security bars for protection.
“Many of our customers, after installing these new windows, feel safe enough to not put their security bars back on,” Duncan shares. Not only do these new systems provide peace of mind, but they also enhance the beauty of your home, offering both security and style.
The Future of Home Security Starts with You
If you are a homeowner considering upgrading your windows or doors, modern innovations offer a significant improvement in safety without compromising the look of your home.
As Duncan puts it, “Over the last 30 years, we’ve seen how these new systems not only protect homes but also improve how they feel and look.”
If you're ready to upgrade your home’s security, there’s no better time than now. With advancements that protect your home from break-ins while maintaining aesthetic appeal, you can ensure your family’s safety and enjoy a beautiful home at the same time.
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