Bolster home security with easy-to-install burglar bars
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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