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Home Security 101: Preventing Break-Ins Through Glass Windows
Your home is your sanctuary, but without proper security, it can easily become an attractive target for burglars. One of the most vulnerable entry points in any home is its glass windows, especially those on the first floor. These windows, if left unsecured, offer a quick and easy entry point for intruders.
In this guide, we'll share simple yet effective ways to secure your glass windows and prevent break-ins so you can have peace of mind knowing that your home and loved ones are safe.

Why glass windows attract burglars
Burglars are opportunistic and often seek out the weakest and most accessible entry points. Glass windows, especially those on the ground level, are an attractive option because they can be broken or pried open. Many homeowners also overlook window security, making their homes easy targets.
Here are the key reasons why glass windows are vulnerable:
- First-floor access. Ground-level windows provide burglars with easy, discreet entry points.
- Visibility of valuables. Large or uncovered windows allow intruders to survey the interior of your home and target specific valuables.
- Quick access. Windows can be quietly shattered without reinforced locks or security measures, allowing burglars swift access without drawing much attention.
Even windows on higher floors can be vulnerable if there are accessible balconies, decks, or ladders nearby, so comprehensive security for all windows is essential.
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How to secure glass windows
Here are some tips to fortify your windows against break-ins:
Install stronger window locks
One of the easiest ways to improve the security of your windows is by installing stronger locks. Many standard locks are easy to force open, so upgrading to more secure options like these can make a big difference:
- Deadbolt locks. These offer superior protection, requiring a key to lock and unlock from both sides. Ideal for high-risk areas like ground-floor windows.
- Double-hung windows. Ensure both sashes of these windows are locked. Consider installing an auxiliary lock for added security.
- Sliding windows. Place a security bar or rod in the track to prevent the window from being slid open, even if the lock is compromised.
Regularly inspect your window locks to ensure they function correctly, and consider adding additional locks for extra security.
Use security film or bars
Glass windows can be easily broken, but reinforcing them with security film or bars can add a layer of protection. Here's how:
- Security film. This transparent layer applied to the glass makes it more resistant to shattering. Even if a burglar attempts to break the window, the film will hold the broken pieces together, delaying entry.
- Window bars. Install metal security bars as a deterrent for windows in more vulnerable areas (like basements). Modern bars come in various styles that can blend with your home's aesthetic.
- Privacy window film. In addition to security film, consider installing privacy film, which obscures the view into your home while allowing light to enter.
Security and privacy films are relatively inexpensive solutions that can be installed on your own if you're looking for a budget-friendly option.
Add window alarms and glass break sensors
Alarms and sensors are highly effective for detecting and deterring attempted break-ins. Here's how each one works:
- Window alarms. These alarms are triggered when a window is opened without authorization, sounding an alert to scare off intruders.
- Glass break sensors. These sensors detect the sound of breaking glass and immediately alert you or your security system.
- Real-time notifications. Modern systems send notifications directly to your phone or smart device, allowing you to respond to suspicious activity quickly, whether you're home or away.
Choose security systems that integrate with your smartphone for real-time monitoring and control over your home's security.
Use a comprehensive home security system
A complete home security system provides multiple layers of protection, making it much harder for burglars to target your home successfully. Here's how you can maximize the benefits of a comprehensive system:
Monitor entry points with security cameras
Reduce blind spots by placing security cameras at multiple entry points to deter burglars and capture any suspicious activity.
Motion-activated cameras start recording as soon as they detect movement near your windows. You can also use night vision cameras to monitor windows in low-light conditions.
Smart integration lets you connect these cameras to a mobile app for real-time viewing and alerts when motion is detected.

Install motion sensors around windows
Motion sensors are another layer of protection that can detect movement around your windows and activate lights or alarms.
Exterior motion sensors can trigger lights or alarms when outdoor motion is detected near windows, scaring off potential intruders. To protect your home from the inside, position interior motion sensors near windows so any unexpected movement inside your home will set off an alert.
Integrate your motion sensors with a smart home system to trigger cameras or alarms automatically when motion is detected.
Integrate alarm systems with professional monitoring
Alarm systems are a key component of home security. When triggered, they can alert both the homeowner and authorities of a break-in. But when you add 24/7 professional monitoring, it can also notify law enforcement if an alarm is triggered, offering peace of mind even when you're not home.
Use landscaping to your advantage
The design of your landscape can either aid or hinder burglars. These smart landscaping strategies can make your home even more secure:
Keep bushes and trees trimmed so they don't offer hiding places for intruders. Consider planting thorny bushes, such as roses or holly, near windows to deter intruders as well.
Improve lighting
Burglars often target homes that appear empty, and well-lit areas are less likely to be targeted by burglars. The following security additions use these facts to your advantage to keep them from breaking in through windows:
- Interior timers. Use timers to turn lights on and off inside your home at irregular intervals to simulate activity.
- Exterior timers. Set outdoor lights to activate at dusk and turn off at dawn for consistent security.
- Pathway lights and spotlights. These will keep entry points visible at night.
- Motion-activated lights. Place these near windows to illuminate dark areas and discourage burglars when they approach.
You can also use smart plugs or smart home systems to control your lights remotely.
Set up security stickers and signs
Security stickers or yard signs are visible deterrents that can effectively prevent break-ins. Even if you don't have a professional security system, placing a sign or sticker can be a strong deterrent.
Put security stickers on your windows to alert potential intruders that a security system protects your home. Place security system yard signs in visible areas to discourage burglars before they even approach your windows.

Securing other vulnerable entry points
In addition to securing windows, it's important to reinforce other potential entry points around your home:
Reinforce glass doors
Glass doors, like windows, are common targets for burglars. Use the following to secure them:
- Deadbolt locks. Install high-quality deadbolt locks on all glass doors.
- Security bars or dowels. Place security bars or dowels in the tracks of sliding windows and doors to prevent them from being opened from the outside.
- Window film. Apply security film to the glass in your doors to make them more resistant to shattering.
- Tempered glass. This is the perfect choice for glass doors since it's harder to break than standard glass.
Secure your garage door
Garage doors are another common entry point for burglars. These options are great for securing them:
- Garage door locks. Install secure locks on both manual and automatic garage doors.
- Smart garage systems. Use smart locks or sensors that can monitor your garage door's status and send alerts if it's opened unexpectedly.
- Home alarm system integration. Integrate your garage with your home's alarm system for added protection.
Regularly test your garage door's security features to ensure they function properly.
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Tips for protecting valuables
In addition to securing your windows and doors, it's important to take steps to protect valuables inside your home. Here's how:
Use a home safe
A high-quality home safe is one of the best ways to protect important documents and valuable items. Take our advice:
- Choose a safe that can protect against both fire and water damage, in addition to theft.
- Consider hiding your safe in a discreet location, such as behind a false wall or under the floor.
- Bolt your safe to the floor or wall to make it harder for burglars to remove.
Install a front door peephole
A peephole lets you see who is at your door before opening it, preventing potential intruders from forcing their way inside. Consider the following tips:
- Choose a wide-angle peephole to get a full view of anyone standing outside your door.
- Consider installing a smart doorbell with a camera that lets you see and speak to visitors remotely.
- Always check your peephole before answering the door, even if you're expecting someone.

How community involvement deters crime
Burglars are less likely to target areas where neighbors actively watch out for each other, so get involved with your community can help. A neighborhood watch program is a great way to enhance your home's security by working with your neighbors to prevent crime.
Encourage your neighbors to join or create a local neighborhood watch group to keep an eye on suspicious activity. If you notice anything unusual, report it to local authorities or your neighborhood watch group immediately.
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Strengthen your home security today
Securing your glass windows is critical for protecting your home from break-ins. Upgrading window locks, reinforcing glass with security film, and adding alarms or sensors can make your home much less attractive to burglars.
Combining these efforts with a comprehensive home security system and smart landscaping practices will significantly enhance your home's safety. These proactive steps will give you peace of mind, knowing your home, loved ones, and valuables are protected.
For enhanced protection, Vivint's glass break sensors have what you need to protect your home's windows and glass doors. These advanced sensors detect the sound of breaking glass and send real-time alerts, ensuring your home is constantly monitored.
Call us at 855.822.1220 for a free consultation today.
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