After a break-in, it’s essential to reinforce the security of your windows to prevent another intrusion. A broken or forced window is a breach in the protection of your home or business premises. Rapid repair followed by the installation of appropriate security devices will deter burglars and improve the resistance of your openings.

In this article, discover the best solutions for securing your windows after a break-in and preventing any further risk of intrusion.

Check damage and carry out temporary repairs

Before implementing any permanent security measures, it’s important to assess the extent of the damage and protect the window temporarily.

• If the glass is broken: use thick tarpaulin, plywood or safety film to prevent infiltration and easy access.
• If the window frame is damaged: apply temporary reinforcements with wooden bars or reinforced adhesive tape.
• If the lock or locking points are forced: change the lock immediately, or install a temporary locking system until a definitive solution is found.

Once these emergency repairs have been carried out, it is advisable to call in a professional to assess the best security solution.

Replacement of glazing with a secure model

If the glass has been broken, it is preferable to replace it with a more resistant safety glass:

• Burglar-resistant laminated glazing: composed of several layers of glass with PVB films, it prevents the glass from breaking easily and delays intrusion attempts.
• Tempered glass: far more impact-resistant than conventional glass, it breaks into small, non-cutting pieces if shattered.
• Secure double-glazing: ideal for reinforcing thermal insulation while offering additional protection against break-ins.

Glazing complying with EN 356 (minimum P6B recommended) is recommended to effectively secure windows at risk of burglary.

Reinforced frames and fasteners

A well-secured window also relies on a sturdy frame and reinforced fastenings.

• Install safety keepers: these steel reinforcements solidify the window’s closing points.
• Replace standard hinges with anti-unhinge hinges: these prevent the window from being lifted from the outside.
• Use burglar-proof angles: fixed around the perimeter of the frame, they prevent burglars from inserting a crowbar to force the opening.

These devices deter intrusion by making the opening much more difficult to force.

Add security locks

Installing additional locks increases window resistance and makes it more difficult for intruders to gain access.

• Key locks: add an extra locking point and prevent opening without the right key.
• Automatic locks: lock as soon as the window is closed, reducing the risk of forgetting.
• Multipoint locks: offer enhanced security by distributing locking points over the entire height of the window.

These solutions are particularly effective for ground-floor windows and those accessible from a balcony or roof.

Installing external protection

In addition to reinforcement devices, some external protection devices can deter intrusion attempts.

• Security roller shutters: made of reinforced aluminum, they add a physical barrier against burglary.
• Protective grilles: fixed or removable, they prevent access to windows without compromising ventilation.
• Burglar-resistant films: applied directly to the glazing, they prevent splinters from scattering and increase impact resistance.

These solutions are ideal for businesses and homes in burglar-prone areas.

Installing a detection and alarm system

An alarm or an opening detector can alert you to an attempted break-in and deter burglars.

• Opening and vibration sensors: detect any tampering and trigger an alarm.
• Connected alarm: sends an alert to your smartphone in the event of an intrusion.
• Automatic lighting: a motion detector activating outdoor lighting can be enough to scare off a burglar.

These devices complement physical measures to provide maximum safety.

Call in a professional for a safety audit

After a break-in, it’s advisable to call in a window security specialist to identify weak points and recommend suitable improvements.

• Weakness assessment of your windows and frames.
• Recommend solutions tailored to your budget and risk level.
• Installation of glazing and safety equipment in compliance with current standards.

An audit can optimize the protection of your home or business, and considerably reduce the risk of another intrusion.

Conclusion

After a break-in, reinforcing window security is essential to prevent a burglary from happening again. Replacing the glazing with a secure model, adding locks and external protection, and installing alarm systems are the best solutions for effectively securing your openings.

For a fast response and professional support, visit our glazing services page. For a personalized quote or custom installation, contact us via our online form.