Windows can be a weak point in your home’s security, especially if they are old, damaged, or poorly installed. This can be particularly true for basement windows, which are often an afterthought. Here are a few tips to burglar-proof your basement windows:

1. Replace Outdated or Damaged Windows

Because outdated, damaged, or poorly installed windows are bad news for your home, one of the best tips to burglar-proof your basement windows is to replace them if needed. This is also one of the most important window safety tips.

Safety and repair are some of the common types of home improvement. New windows that are properly installed protect your home better all around. Plus, there are upgrades available that make windows even stronger. Maintaining your windows and home and improving your home’s security are home improvement resolutions worth keeping.

2. Opt for Shatter-Proof Window Glass or Security Film

When adding or replacing windows in your home, glass options are one of the things to consider. There are plenty of glass options available for improved energy efficiency, more privacy, and better security. This is also one of the ways to improve front door security if your front door has glass options or panels.

Shatter-proof window glass is one of those options. Not only does it offer more insulation for better energy efficiency, but it can also protect you from a break-in. Security film on your windows is another option. You can also add textured or tinted options to add privacy to your windows and prevent easy views into the basement.

3. Ensure There Are Window Locks Inside

Making sure your basement windows have the appropriate window locks can help burglar-proof them. The right types of locks will depend on the types of basement windows you have, but getting the right one can help you further secure your windows and prevent intruders from getting in. You want to ensure that you are making your basement windows as difficult to open from the outside as possible.

4. Make Sure Your Basement Windows Have Well Covers

If your basement windows face a window well or are egress windows, it’s a good idea to also install window well covers. Not only do these covers discourage intruders, but they also protect your basement windows from the weather. Window well covers keep rain, snow, and more out of your window wells and away from your windows.

Take a look at the Zephyr Thomas team installing an egress window in this homeowner’s basement!

5. Use Outdoor Security Cameras to Your Advantage

Outdoor security cameras that are visible are a big deterrent to potential intruders. They may not be security on the window itself, but they can play a big part in protecting your home and making sure your basement windows do not look like a weak access point.

6. Put Security Stickers on Basement Windows Too

If you have a home security system, you also likely have window stickers and maybe a yard sign to show you have extra protection for your home. These items can often discourage intruders by making it clear that your home is not an easy target.

Because of this, one of the tips to burglar-proof your basement windows is to put security stickers on them as well. In this case, it’s more of a deterrent than a physical addition that strengthens the windows.

7. Add Lights for Added Security

Another way to help burglar-proof your basement, including the windows, is to add lights for an added deterrent. Flood lights in the backyard or where your basement windows are located can help deter intruders.

You can also use lights on timers, programmed smart speakers, and more in your basement to give the appearance that someone is home and moving around. This, too, can act as a deterrent to potential intruders.

8. Plant Something Prickly Outside

If you like having some plant life around your home, you can make it double as an added deterrent for improving security. A thorny bush or another prickly plant near your basement windows can provide some coverage for them and also make them unfriendly and unattractive to an intruder. But, you do want to keep visibility balanced and make sure the plants do not provide too much cover or allow anyone to hide what they are doing.

These are just a few tips to burglar-proof your basement windows; many of which are also general home security tips to help protect your home. If you need to update or replace your basement windows or add an egress window, contact Zephyr Thomas at 717-399-4708 to start a free quote!