10 Tips for Better Basement Window Security

Strong basement window security can deter burglary and theft in a home. Basement windows can be easy entry points for intruders because the windows sit at ground level and can be easily manipulated.

Keep Basement Windows Visible from the Outside

A basement window that is concealed by plants or shrubs is attractive to burglars because it provides them a cover under which they can easily operate.

Use Shatterproof Glass

Avoid weak glass that burglars can easily shatter. Use tough, shatter-resistant glass for your basement windows. A thief that tries in vain to break a window may give up.

Advertise Your Home Security System

A monitored home security system is one of the most effective ways of preventing break-ins. Make sure any passers-by can clearly see your home security stickers. Your basement windows must be secure and set up in alliance with the security system.

Install Security Bars

Heavy security bars made of iron or steel offer sufficient protection against intruders. However, you must install these bars in such a way that firefighters can still use the window as an exit point, in case of an emergency. Most of these bars can be manipulated from the inside so that the window can provide an escape route.

Apply Security Film to the Glass

Security film is a layer of polyester that you stick on the inside of the window. If the glass is broken, the inner layer will hold the pieces together. The broken pieces of glass, stuck together, can inhibit a burglar.

Make the Entry Point Impassable

To startle intruders when they try to enter the basement through the window, you can keep a squeaking toy that makes noise when stepped on. If you also place furniture or indoor plants such as cacti in front of the basement window, the intruder will have a difficult time making it past the entry point.

Use Locks

Use a reliable set of locks and keys for the basement windows, if they do not have secure latches or other locking mechanisms. However, you must be able to open at least one window in the basement without the use of keys, in an emergency situation.

Block the View into the Basement

Use glass block for your windows, so that any outsider cannot peek in and see what is going on inside your basement. The intruder will not be able to tell if the basement is empty or occupied. Glass block is also extremely strong and difficult to shatter.

Use Good Lighting Outside

Make sure your basement windows are always well-lit during the evenings and night. A dark place is always more likely to be broken into.

Use Polycarbonate Sheets

Polycarbonate sheets offer high resistance to impact and are virtually unbreakable. These sheets are used in several commercial settings. An intruder who tries to break in will give up more easily.