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According to the police and research, windows are the most popular choice of entry for burglars. Therefore, it makes sense to pay particular attention to windows and their security. If you have wooden frames then it is important to ensure that wood is solid and free from rot and detorioration. Also make sure that they are fixed with wooden beading which are fitted with security screws rather than pins or putty. Similar checks should also be carried out on metal frames ensuring that all screws and fittings are secure and not coroded or rusting. Modern PVCu windows are generally less prone to detorioration but checks should also be carried to ensure that all fittings are secure. PVCu windows can also have problems with the beading - the strips which hold the window in place. The beading can sometimes be on the outside, which means in theory it could be stripped off and the window simply removed from the frame. Should your beading be on the outside then glazing strips, security tape and putty can be applied to help secure it. If you can afford to replace your windows then look into investing in ones that are certified to British Standard BS7950 "Windows of Enhanced Security". Also consider laminated glass in ground-floor and easily accessibe windows as it is much harder to break. If this is not feasible then as a general rule, double-glazing is safer and harder to break than single-paned glass. Security tests have been developed by British Standards to identify which windows are more superior. PAS 011 is a test of the whole system, including hinges and latches (but not the actual glass). Look for BS 7412 - PAS 011 for PVCu systems, or BS 644 - PAS 011 for timber. If displayed, these tell you that the windows have been tested and have reached the standard. BS 4873 applies to aluminum frames and BS 6510 to steel. Regardless of your type of windows, there is still more you can do to protect your home. Just because you have the most secure type of window does not mean you should stop there. The easiest, and relatively cheapest way, to improve the security of your windows is to invest in some window locks. Window locks will deter a potential burglar as it means the hinge can not be easily forced open and therefore the only means of entry is to break a window which risks the chance of being heard and is also time-consuming. Inexpensive and easy-to-fix window locks can be purchased from almost all DIY shops. They are usually key-fitted and should be fixed to all ground-floor and easily accessible windows as a bare minimum. Not only will this improve the security of the house but it will also help keep your insurance premiums down. Once the locks are fitted, remember to use them and to never leave the keys in the locks or near to the windows, especially where they can be easily found or seen from the outside, such as a window sill. As a last resort, you could consider installing security grilles to vulnerable windows.
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