How to Install Bars on Windows in 3 Simple Steps

Bolster home security with easy-to-install burglar bars

Small windows set in a pink exterior
Photo: Catherine Falls Commercial / Moment / Getty Images
Small windows set in a pink exterior
Photo: Catherine Falls Commercial / Moment / Getty Images
Taylor Sansano
Written by Taylor Sansano
Contributing Writer
Updated Oct 15, 2024
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
2 hours
COST
$100–$500
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
  • Tape measure
  • Spirit level
  • Power drill
  • Masonry bit
  • Bowl of water
SUPPLIES
  • Window bar kit
  • Non-reversing security screws
  • Conical screw anchors

When would-be intruders target homes, they look for ways to get in quickly without attracting attention. One of the simplest ways to get burglars to skip your house is to secure basement windows with metal security bars. This inexpensive, low-tech solution is available at most home improvement stores. In this guide, you’ll learn how to install bars on windows yourself.

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Prepping to Install Burglar Bars

When it comes to this home security upgrade, you have to be handy to get the job done. Before you're ready to install burglar bars, you'll need the exact measurements of each window. Measure width and height from inside the window, stretching your tape measure between both sides of the frame and from the top of the frame to the sill.

Interior-mounted bars should fit snugly within the window frame with a half-inch clearance. Exterior-mounted bars should be a few inches longer and wider than the window. Non-standard windows may require custom bars. No matter what model you choose, ensure that it conforms to local building codes. Most municipalities require a clear escape path in the event of a fire. So if you’re using this as a backyard security solution, make sure you have a plan in place in case of an emergency.

  1. Position the Bars

    Potted plants on a window
    Photo: Carolin Voelker / Moment / Getty Images

    Position the bars in the window and use a spirit level to ensure that they're level both vertically and horizontally. (You may need a partner to help with this step.) With a pencil, mark the position of all holes in each mounting bracket.

  2. Drill Pilot Holes

    Use your drill to put a pilot hole on each pencil mark. If you're mounting the bars on brick, stone, or masonry, use a half-inch masonry bit to create a large enough hole for a conical screw anchor. To prevent the bit from overheating, drill slowly and periodically dip it in a bowl of water.

    Once your holes are about an inch deeper than the length of your screws, hammer a screw anchor into each hole.

  3. Mount the Bars

    Storehouse of the white wall
    Photo: MasaoTaira / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

    Reposition the bars as you did in the first step and drive non-reversing security screws into each hole to mount the bars securely. Using security screws is a great home security tip that will keep burglars from being able to remove the bars themselves.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro 

It may cost as little as $200 to purchase and install window bars for a DIY project. Your actual cost will depend on the type and size of bars you choose. Doing it yourself will save you about $150 per window in labor costs. However, there are several reasons why you may wish to trust a local window installer or security company with your burglar bar installation.

For window bars to be effective, precise placement and adherence to local housing codes are a must. Otherwise, your window may be less secure and far more dangerous. Mistakes can make it difficult or even impossible for people to escape through a barred window during a fire or other emergency. On average, the cost to install bars on windows with a professional is $940.

Frequently Asked Questions

To install window security bars, you have to mount the bars securely to opposite sides of the window frame. A home has structural framing directly behind window frames, so the screws you use to mount burglar bars need to be long enough to reach that framing. With bars installed between these secure anchors, you'll have a barrier that deters intruders.

Yes, bars on windows are generally considered to be one of the most effective ways to secure windows. They are relatively affordable and low-tech, making them easy to install for most homeowners. Window bars deter break-ins by making it more difficult and time-consuming for burglars to enter a home. They also up the likelihood of attracting attention in the process.

Burglar bars can go either inside or outside a window. However, internally mounted security bars provide the advantage of being inaccessible from outside the property without breaking a window. If a burglar were to break the glass and attempt to attack the inside bar attachment, they would risk setting off a glass break window alarm sensor.

There are ample home security options available today outside of just window bars. Depending on your location, home’s layout, and needs, one or more types of home security systems may be necessary. You could consider doorbell cameras, motion-sensor flood lights, or window and door sensors. And in some cases, you may qualify for homeowners insurance discounts when you install one or more.

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Taylor Sansano
Written by Taylor Sansano
Contributing Writer
Taylor Sansano is a full-time freelance writer specializing in helping readers make better decisions — whether that's deciding what type of wood to use when building a deck or how to choose the best company for their needs.

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