Window Security Film

No, the film is a clear flexible polyester sheet that is affixed to the inside of the window. If someone outside, a would be intruder or a vandal, hits the window hard enough or if the window is struck by a stray golf ball for instance, the glass will shatter. . . but stay together.

With an unprotected window a thief could break the glass to gain entry into your home. With window security film fitted he could break the glass but still not be able to get in. The shattered glass would still be in front of him, the shards of glass held in place by the film.

Protective window security film is not absolutely intruder proof, what is? With repeated heavy blows with a hammer or crowbar a housebreaker could make a small hole in your film-protected window, then reach in and slip the catch. But that would involve two things, noise and time. Burglars hate noise; it is apt to attract the attention of neighbors and passers by.

Time is also a burglar's enemy; the more time they spend on a break-in the more chance they have of being caught.

Very few housebreakers would risk the time needed to successfully attack the glass. Once they realize they are up against security film they would likely move on and find a home that is less protected.

A determined burglar though, or perhaps a novice who doesn't know what he is up against, may succeed in getting through your window which is why security film is best as just part of an overall security system.

Every homeowner’s security needs are different, you have to decide the level and type of protection that your home requires.

No form of defense against intrusion is perfect in isolation whether that be alarms, quality locks, window security film or even surveillance cameras. Protective film can help prevent a burglar getting in your windows but you still need secure locks and fittings on your doors. Likewise, an alarm system can alert your neighbors or the police but would not stop entry through your windows.

Security film is an alternative to window security bars. Bars, grilles or shutters are all highly visible methods of protecting windows. The thief can see the bars, which in many cases will deter him from even trying to enter your home through your windows.

Window security film is in most cases virtually invisible, the housebreaker won't know it is there until he has taken a swipe at the glass - a hard enough swipe will break the glass but the thief still can't get in.

From this, you might conclude that security bars are better because your window is less likely to get broken in an aborted break-in. On the other hand many homeowners find security bars to be ugly and prefer the discrete protection of security film.

You certainly may want to fit window security film to all your windows that are particularly vulnerable such as those not overlooked by neighbors or passers-by. If you would want to fit burglar bars to the window then you could fit window film as a more attractive alternative.

Security film is usually sold by the foot, it is supplied from a roll and is available in various widths and thickness. Some varieties not only provide protection against burglary, storm damage etc. but also block solar heat.

You should be aware though, that not all window film is security window film. Some film may insulate against heat but be of no use for security, be sure that the film you chose is intended to withstand force.

It is possible to install the film yourself but care must be taken and the correct adhesive used. Having a professional install your window security film will possibly get you a longer guarantee against peeling, chipping and yellowing.

Attaching to the frame as well as the glass increases the effectiveness of the film to withstand attack. Several window security film manufacturers offer framing support components to fasten the film to your window frame.

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