Because of this, it's a good idea to give some thought to deterring this type of entry. As we continue to mention in this article, a large percentage of crime can be deterred by simply making it more difficult.
One good deterrent is to have better quality glass installed at vulnerable points around the perimeter of your residence. You don't have to have every window changed out, just the one's that are accessible from the ground. Most burglars avoid trying to break the following types of glass due to the fear of attracting attention:
LAMINATED GLASS is made by a vinyl or plastic interlayer sandwiched between two layers of glass. This type of glass adds additional strength to your windows. This type will not shatter or break completely. To gain entry, a burglar would have to strike the glass repeatedly in the same spot in order to make a small opening. Most burglars are reluctant to create this type of noise for fear of being detected.
TEMPERED GLASS is made by placing a piece of regular glass in an oven, bringing it almost to the melting point, and then chilling it rapidly. This causes a skin to form around the glass. Fully tempered glass is four to five times stronger than regular glass, but it can be broken with a hard blow, and it will shatter.
WIRED GLASS is the best choice from a strict security standpoint. With this glass, extra effort is needed to break the glass and then cut through the wire embedded in the glass. The drawback, of course, is that it's not considered the most beautiful glass for home installation.
Of course, re-installing windows is expensive and time consuming. But for the security-minded family on a budget, there are a couple of categories of deterrents that will make it difficult for most burglars. Generally, these are bolting devices and alarms.
If you have CASEMENT WINDOWS, you are in good shape security-wise. These windows are quite secure as installed, provided the latch works properly and that there is no excess play in the hardware. If there is, replace it.
LOUVERED WINDOWS are probably the worst design for security. If you can't afford to replace them, consider vibration alarms.
DOUBLE HUNG WINDOWS are the most common ones found in older homes. These are not very secure as typically installed, but can be made more secure quite easily. There are many products available at your home improvement store for this purpose. The most effective deterrent is to simply screw the window shut. If the window is never opened, this is your best, and least-expensive approach. If you are worried about emergency exit, remember that you can break the window in an emergency (if you haven't installed hard-to-break windows). If you do open the window from time to time, or if it is a difficult glass to break, you can install quick-release window stops available in many forms, or drill a hole and install a bolt or peg that can be easily removed by hand.
Finally, you should back up your entry-prevention tactics with the strong deterrent of a glass breakage alarm. These devices are triggered by severe vibration, and produce a blood-curtling noise when the glass is broken. They are inexpensive and easy to install, but not that widely available.
