The Difference between Retractable and Fixed Security for Windows
Burglar proofing for windows usually consists of permanently fixed bars across the part of the window that opens up for fresh air. What is less well known is that sliding security gates for doors work equally well as window protection and have some unique advantages. Here are the differences between the two types to help you make the right choice for your home.
Fixed Trellis-style Window Security
Fixed trellis-style window security has been popular for many years. The burglar bars look similar to trellis gates, with a criss-cross pattern across the upright bars. The fixed units are attached to the wall around the window or sometimes to the window frame, although this is an older installation style.
Purchasing options range from DIY burglar bars that you can buy from a hardware store and fit yourself to more robust custom-made units that are made-to-measure for each window. Custom-made fixed window security results in a tight fitting, secure installation that offers a high level of safety.
Your choice of fixed burglar bars will depend on how likely you are to be burgled. If you live in a low crime risk area, the cheaper version may be enough. These budget burglar bars may or may not be framed and lack dependable strength. Be aware that this burglar proofing is easy to kick out by burglars trying to get inside your home.
At the opposite end of the scale are customised fixed burglar bars. These are manufactured from strong materials like galvanised steel or structural aluminium. They are made by reputable manufacturers like Trellidor and will stand up far longer to an assault by criminals.
Better quality burglar bars are fully framed and have in-built strengthening features that make them a reliable form of physical protection. They are a visible reminder to criminals that your home is not an easy target and therefore act as a deterrent to a break-in attempt.
Retractable Trellis-style Window Security
Sliding trellis-style window barriers are similar to the ones fitted to entry doors and passages for our protection. They look like the fixed version when closed, but they can slide open in the same way as a door security gate.
There are several advantages to fitting retractable security gates instead of fixed security to protect windows:
- Retractable window security is custom-made for a tight fit that helps prevent criminals from finding weak points to use to remove the burglar gates.
- Window security gates can slide closed for secure locking for safety when you need it.
- Sliding window security can be unlocked and stacked to the side to make window and window sill cleaning quick and easy.
- If you have windows that are tricky to open through burglar bars when you need fresh air, sliding burglar bars are a great solution as you can open them up to reach difficult window handles and latches.
- Broken window panes are easier to repair if the burglar bars can slide out of the way.
- Retractable window gates can be quickly unlocked and opened if you need an emergency escape route out of your home through the window.
- A sliding window gate is a neat way of protecting an entire window. Fixed window panes are just as vulnerable to being broken into by burglars as the windows that open. One retractable unit can protect them all.
Factors to Consider in Choosing Retractable or Fixed Security for Windows
Now that you know that there are both fixed and retractable security options for windows, here are some factors to consider when making your choice.
- Windows that are easily to reach for criminals should be fitted with the strongest burglar proofing you can afford.
- Less accessible windows can be fitted with less expensive security.
- There should be at least one retractable security barrier on windows in your safe zone. This is the one you’ll use as an escape route should the need arise. It is preferable to have more than one retractable security barrier in this area.
- If your budget is tight, consider securing all the windows and doors in your safe zone first. You can secure other windows in your home when you have the funds.
- You can have different fixed and retractable security barrier designs on your windows if you have them all powder coated in the same colour for a seamless appearance.
- Get a security expert in to help you decide which fixed or retractable security barrier or barriers for windows are best for your home and needs.
- Ask your security barriers supplier to give you quotes on several types of fixed and retractable security for windows so that you can compare them and make an informed choice.
- Take advantage of any discounts on offer on high quality fixed and retractable security for windows so that you can get the best for less.
Types of Retractable and Fixed Security for Windows
There are many types of window security in both the ‘fixed’ and ‘retractable’ categories. Your choice will depend on your personal preference, the style of your home, your budget and how vulnerable your home is to a break-in.
Fixed Security Designs for Windows
Some fixed security designs have been around for decades. Others are newer to the market. Here are some ideas of what is available from Trellidor:
- Fixed steel or aluminium trellis-style burglar bars.
- Cottage Guard cottage pane style fixed burglar bars with an outer frame of square aluminium tubing, reinforced internally with steel threaded cruciform rods.
- Semi-framed steel Burglar Guard electro-galvanised steel burglar bars, which are reasonably priced fixed window security in several designs including flat bar, single trellis, or double trellis.
- Poly Guard fixed security with see-through polycarbonate strips and a full frame, ideal for estates where monkeys and baboons are a problem.
Retractable Security Designs for Windows
Trellis-style retractable security gates for windows and doors are a familiar sight in South Africa. But there are other designs made by Trellidor that are also highly suited to protecting windows. Here are some interesting alternatives to consider:
- As mentioned above, Trellidor Retractable sliding security gates in steel or aluminium are a useful form of window protection because they slide open.
- GriffinGuard and Clear Guard security screens can be made in formats that open up when needed.
- The ShutterView aluminium louvre range is available in various configurations that can fold, slide, or stack open.
- Aluminium roller shutters like Rollerstyle roll up into a shutter box, completely out of the way when necessary.
In conclusion, there are good reasons for choosing both fixed and retractable window security. You may decide on a mix of fixed and retractable to suit various parts of your home. Or you may prefer to have one type throughout your home. Before making your decision, contact your local Trellidor outlet and get some advice to help you make your final decision as burglar proofing is a long-term investment in your safety at home.
