Burglar bars (also known as security bars) are a popular way for homeowners to protect themselves against intruders. That said, they’re also a remarkably quick way to make your beautifully designed home look like the east wing of San Quentin. While the aesthetics of burglar bars may not be a priority, especially for residents in regions prone to higher crime rates, there are plenty of other factors you need to consider. Here, we’re going to look at the pros and cons of burglar bars every homeowner should know.
The Advantages of Burglar Bars
● Improved Security
The primary advantage of burglar bars is the added security they provide. Creating a physical barrier, they make it difficult for intruders to access your home through the windows, one of the most vulnerable points of any home.
● Psychological Deterrent
Even just the sight of burglar bars can act as a powerful deterrent to would-be burglars. Criminals often look for easy targets, and a home equipped with visible security measures is less likely to be singled out for a break-in.
● Reduced Anxiety
Knowing that your home is fortified with burglar bars will no doubt help you sleep better at night. This peace of mind is invaluable for homeowners, especially those who have experienced the trauma of a home invasion before.
● Child Safety
For homes with children—particularly multi-story residences—burglar bars can also serve an additional safety function by preventing young children from accidentally falling out of windows, thus providing an extra layer of protection.
Given all that, burglar bars might sound pretty useful. But they also come with some drawbacks.
The Disadvantages of Burglar Bars
Fire Hazard Concerns
One of the major risks associated with burglar bars is their potential to impede escape during emergencies, such as fires. While windows may be one of the most popular ways for burglars to get in, they’re also one of the best ways for you and your family to get out if you need to. It’s for this reason that many home insurance companies and local building codes require quick-release systems for any home equipped with burglar bars.
Aesthetic Impact
Burglar bars can also detract from the aesthetic appeal of a home. They tend to make windows look less inviting and can sometimes give the impression that a home is located in a high-crime area. This can be a turnoff for prospective buyers, potentially impacting the home’s resale value. What’s more, the presence of burglar bars can create a psychological feeling of being imprisoned in your own home.
Restricted Views
Security bars for windows also reduce the amount of natural light that enters a home, making spaces feel a little darker and less open. Additionally, they can detract from your views out your window.
Potential Complications in Emergency Situations
Burglar bars can also complicate access for emergency responders, such as firefighters or paramedics. If these professionals need to enter the home quickly through a window, burglar bars can delay their efforts—another reason why carriers require you to have quick-release mechanisms.
Keep your home safe with Home Insurance Florida
While burglar bars can improve your home’s security, it’s important to make sure they comply with local regulations and safety standards, including the installation of quick-release mechanisms, to reduce fire hazards.
At Home Insurance Florida, we can give you the advice you need and find the best coverage options that align with your home security measures. Get the best home insurance quotes and the best advice to go with it. Contact our Home Insurance Florida today and sleep a little more peacefully knowing you’ve got everything taken care of with the right home insurance coverage.