Burglar bars are essential for home security, reducing break-in risks by up to 50%. According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, there were an estimated 1,117,696 burglaries in 2019, with 62.8% involving forcible entry. Burglar bars, such as window guards and door grilles, serve as a strong deterrent against these crimes. 
In this article, we will explore burglar bars in detail. We'll cover their definition, types, material options and much more in detail. By understanding these options, homeowners can make informed decisions to enhance their property's security and peace of mind.
What are Burglar Bars?
Burglar bars are protective barriers installed on windows and doors to prevent unauthorized entry. These security devices, typically made of metal or durable materials, create a physical obstacle for intruders.
Common burglar bar designs include vertical bars, horizontal grids, and decorative patterns. For example, a window might have five evenly spaced vertical bars, while a door could feature a cross-hatched grid pattern.
Burglar bars offer both security and deterrence. They make it difficult for burglars to enter and serve as a visible warning, often discouraging potential intruders before they attempt a break-in.
Types of Burglar Bars
Fixed Burglar Bars
Fixed burglar bars are permanently attached security barriers for windows and doors. These bars are welded or bolted directly to the building structure, providing constant protection against intruders.
Popular fixed bar styles include vertical bars, horizontal bars, and grid patterns. For instance, a standard window might have seven vertical bars spaced 6 inches apart. A patio door could feature a decorative diamond grid pattern covering its entire glass surface.
Fixed bars offer uninterrupted security but may pose challenges in emergencies. To address this, some fixed bar systems include quick-release mechanisms. Many homeowners choose fixed bars for ground-floor windows and vulnerable entry points. These bars can be painted to match home exteriors for a more integrated look.
Removable Burglar Bars
Removable burglar bars offer flexible security that can be installed and removed as needed. These bars use secure mounting brackets or locking mechanisms to attach to window or door frames. Common removable bar systems include pin-and-socket designs and key-operated locks.
The main advantage of removable bars is their versatility. They can be easily taken down for cleaning, maintenance, or when not needed. This flexibility makes them ideal for rental properties or homes where permanent alterations aren't allowed.
Popular brands like Master Lock offer removable bar kits for various window sizes. These kits often include all necessary hardware and can be installed without professional help, making them a cost-effective security option.
Retractable Burglar Bars
Retractable burglar bars are modern security solutions that can be extended or retracted as needed. These bars offer protection without permanently obstructing views or access.
Common designs include accordion-style bars and roller systems. For instance, the Xpanda Retractable Security Gate expands to cover openings up to 7 feet wide and collapses into a slim 6-inch housing when not in use.
Retractable bars are particularly useful for patios, large windows, and storefronts. They allow for unobstructed views and easy access during the day while providing full security at night or when the property is unoccupied. Many retractable bars can often be customized to fit specific window or door sizes.
Hinged Burglar Bars
Hinged burglar bars provide security while allowing easy access when needed. These bars are permanently attached on one side but can swing open like a gate for egress or maintenance. Typical designs include single-panel bars that swing outward or inward, and double-panel bars that open from the center.
Hinged bars are ideal for bedroom windows, where emergency escape routes are crucial. They're also popular for ground-floor windows that may need occasional access for cleaning or maintenance. Many hinged systems incorporate locks for added security when closed. Some models include childproof releases to prevent accidental openings by young children.
Standard Burglar Bars
Standard burglar bars offer reliable security through simple, functional designs. These bars prioritize strength and effectiveness over decorative elements. Common standard options include vertical bars, horizontal bars, and grid patterns.
Standard bars are often chosen for their cost-effectiveness and durability. They're suitable for utility areas, basements, or locations where aesthetics are less important. Brands like Prime-Line and Knape & Vogt offer a range of standard bar options to fit various window sizes.
Decorative Burglar Bars
Decorative burglar bars combine security with aesthetic appeal. These bars feature ornate designs that complement various architectural styles while providing robust protection. Modern decorative options include scrollwork patterns, geometric designs, and nature-inspired motifs.
Decorative bars allow homeowners to enhance security without compromising curb appeal. They're popular for front-facing windows and historic properties. Brands like Precision Entry and Alumaguard offer custom decorative options to match specific home styles.
Custom-Made Burglar Bars
Custom-made burglar bars offer tailored security solutions to meet specific needs and preferences. Many welders and metalworking shops provide bespoke bar designs that perfectly fit unique window shapes, sizes, and architectural styles.
For example, Capitol Iron Works, a renowned metalworking company, offers custom burglar bar designs that can incorporate family crests, geometric patterns, or Art Deco-inspired elements. These custom options allow homeowners to achieve both security and personalized aesthetics.
Capitol Iron Works’s custom bars are ideal for non-standard window sizes, unique security requirements, or homeowners seeking a truly one-of-a-kind look. They can be designed to match historical architectural details or integrate with smart home systems for added convenience. If you're interested in exploring custom burglar bar options, contact Capitol Iron Works or your local metalworking professionals.
Material Options for Burglar Bars
Burglar bars come in various materials, each offering unique benefits. Common options include steel, aluminum, iron, polycarbonate, and composite materials. Let's explore each material's characteristics, pros, and cons.
Steel Burglar Bars
Steel burglar bars are known for their exceptional strength and durability. These bars offer robust security and can withstand significant force, making them highly effective in deterring intruders.
Common types of steel used include mild steel and stainless steel. For example, bars made from 1-inch thick mild steel tubing provide excellent strength, while stainless steel bars offer superior corrosion resistance, ideal for coastal areas.
Steel bars can be easily welded, cut, and shaped to fit various window sizes and designs. Popular products like the John Sterling Swing-Away Window Guard use powder-coated steel for enhanced appearance and rust protection.
Pros:
1. Excellent strength and durability
2. Cost-effective
3. Versatile in design options
4. Long-lasting with proper maintenance
5. Can be easily repaired or modified
Cons:
1. Prone to rust if not properly treated
2. Heavier than some alternative materials
Aluminium Burglar Bars
Aluminum burglar bars offer a lightweight yet durable security solution. These bars are popular for their corrosion resistance and modern appearance, making them suitable for various architectural styles.
Typical aluminum bar designs include hollow tube bars and solid bar options. Aluminum bars are often anodized or powder-coated to enhance durability.
Pros:
1. Lightweight and easy to install
2. Excellent corrosion resistance
3. Low maintenance
4. Wide range of color options
5. Modern, sleek appearance
Cons:
1. Not as strong as steel or iron
2. Can be more expensive than steel options
Iron Burglar Bars
Iron burglar bars offer a classic, robust security solution with a traditional aesthetic. These bars are known for their strength and durability, making them a reliable choice for home protection. Common iron bar designs include wrought iron bars with decorative elements and plain vertical or horizontal bars. 
Iron bars can be easily forged into intricate designs, making them popular for period homes. Products like the First Watch Security Hinged Window Guard showcase iron's ability to combine security with decorative elements.
Pros:
1. Exceptional strength and durability
2. Classic, timeless appearance
3. Can be forged into intricate designs
4. Long-lasting with proper maintenance
5. Adds value to historic or period homes
Cons:
1. Heavier than aluminum or steel options
2. Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust
Polycarbonate Burglar Bars
Polycarbonate burglar bars offer a unique, transparent security solution that maintains visibility while providing protection. These bars are made from high-strength, impact-resistant plastic that's nearly unbreakable.
Typical designs include clear polycarbonate panels with reinforced edges or polycarbonate bars embedded with steel cores. Polycarbonate bars are useful where maintaining an unobstructed view is important, such as storefronts or scenic windows. Products like the SABIC Lexan Thermoclear Sheet are popular in hurricane-prone areas due to their impact resistance.
Pros:
1. Maintains visibility and natural light
2. Highly impact-resistant
3. Lightweight and easy to install
4. UV-resistant and won't yellow over time
5. Suitable for hurricane-prone areas
Cons:
1. May not be as visually deterring as metal bars
2. Can be more expensive than traditional metal options
Composite Materials
Composite burglar bars combine multiple materials to create a security solution that leverages the strengths of each component. These bars often incorporate materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, or metal-reinforced plastics.
Examples of composite burglar bars include fiberglass bars with steel cores or carbon fiber bars with aluminum reinforcements. Composite bars offer a balance of strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. Products like the Strongwell Fiberglass Security Bars showcase how composites can provide robust security in harsh environments.
Pros:
1. Combines strengths of multiple materials
2. Lightweight yet strong
3. Excellent corrosion resistance
4. Can be designed to mimic other materials
5. Often require less maintenance than metal bars
Cons:
1. Can be more expensive than single-material options
2. May have limited design options compared to traditional materials
Burglar Bars Installation: DIY vs. Professional
Pros of DIY burglar bar installation:
• Save money on labor costs
• Work on your own schedule
• Feel proud of doing it yourself
• Choose exact designs you want
• Learn new home improvement skills
• No strangers in your home
Cons of DIY burglar bar installation:
• Risk of improper installation
• Takes a lot of time and effort
• Might void window warranties
• Could violate local building codes
• Might not get insurance discounts
Why Professional Installation is Recommended?
Professional installers know how to put in burglar bars safely and correctly. They have the right tools and skills to do the job without damaging your home. Companies like ADT or Brinks Home Security can make sure your bars meet local rules.
Pros can also help you pick the best bars for your needs. They might suggest bars that open from inside for bedrooms, like Grisham's Swing-Away Window Guards. This helps with fire safety.
Many pro installers offer warranties on their work. For example, Capitol Iron Works gives great warranty terms on what they install. This means you don't have to worry about problems later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation
1. Wrong measurements: Not measuring windows right can lead to bars that don't fit well. This leaves gaps that burglars can use. Always measure twice and include the window frame thickness. Use a tape measure, not just eyeballing it.
2. Weak anchoring: Burglar bars need to attach to the house structure, not just the window frame. Use the right bolts or anchors for your wall type. For brick or concrete, use masonry anchors. For wood frames, use long screws that go into the studs.
3. Blocking fire escapes: Some windows need to open for emergencies. Usually, at least one window in each bedroom should open easily. Install quick-release bars on these windows. This lets you escape if there's a fire but still keeps burglars out.
4. Cheap materials: Using low-quality bars or screws can make your security weak. They might rust or break easily. Always use strong, rust-resistant materials made for security. Stainless steel or thick aluminum bars are good choices.
5. Ugly installations: Badly chosen or installed bars can make your house look bad. This might lower its value. Pick bars that match your home's style. You can get decorative bars or paint them to match your house color.
6. Forgetting maintenance: Not planning for upkeep can cause problems later. Bars can rust, come loose, or get stuck if you don't care for them. Choose bars you can clean easily. Plan to check and oil moving parts regularly.
Benefits of Installing Burglar Bars
Installing burglar bars provides 7 key benefits for home security. Here are the main advantages:
1. Strong deterrent: Visible bars make burglars less likely to try breaking in
2. Better security: Bars physically stop intruders from entering through windows
3. Lower insurance costs: Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with burglar bars
4. Child safety: Bars prevent kids from falling out of upper-story windows
5. Pet protection: Keep pets from escaping or falling out of open windows
6. Safe ventilation: Some bar designs let you open windows while staying secure
7. Increased home value: Well-designed bars can make your home look better and more secure
These benefits make burglar bars a smart choice for many homeowners looking to improve their security and peace of mind.
Tips to Choose Best Burglar Bars for Your Home
Choosing the right burglar bars is crucial for effective home security. Here are 6 important tips to help you make the best choice: 
1. Know your needs: Check local crime rates and identify weak spots in your home
2. Match your home: Pick bars that look good with your house style
3. Compare materials: Look at steel, aluminum, and other options for strength and looks
4. Check for quality: Choose bars tested by groups like ASTM for security
5. Consider removable bars: These offer security when you need it and can be taken off when you don't
6. Ask an expert: Get advice from a security pro on the best options for your home
When choosing bars to match your home, look at your house style. For old houses, wrought iron bars might look best. Modern homes might suit sleek, simple bars. You can also get bars painted to match your window frames.
Decorative bars can look nice while still being strong. They might have curves or patterns. Functional bars are usually simpler but can be very strong. Some brands offer both types.
For custom designs, many companies let you choose colors, patterns, or special shapes. You can often pick the finish too, like shiny or matte. This helps the bars fit your home's look perfectly.
How to Maintain Your Burglar Bars?
Maintaining your burglar bars is essential for long-lasting security. Follow these simple steps:
1. Clean regularly: Wash bars with soap and water to prevent rust and dirt buildup
2. Check for damage: Look for loose parts, rust, or wear twice a year
3. Oil moving parts: Use silicone spray on hinges and locks once a year
4. Fix paint chips: Touch up any scratches to stop rust from starting
5. Test safety releases: Make sure quick-release mechanisms work smoothly
Regular care keeps your bars working well and looking good for years.
Alternatives to Burglar Bars for Home Security
Security window film is a clear, sticky film that makes glass stronger. It's hard to see and keeps your windows looking normal. If someone tries to break the glass, the film holds the pieces together. This makes it harder for burglars to get in. 3M makes a good security film that can take many hits without breaking.
Window alarms and sensors tell you when someone opens a window. They use magnets or motion detectors. When the window moves, the alarm makes a loud noise. Some alarms, like those from SimpliSafe, can send alerts to your phone. This scares burglars away and lets you know if there's trouble.
Reinforced glass is stronger than normal glass. There are two main types. Laminated glass has a plastic layer inside that holds it together if it breaks. Tempered glass is extra strong and breaks into small, dull pieces. Both types are harder for burglars to break through. They look like normal glass but give extra protection.
Takeaway
After reviewing the facts and options, it's clear that burglar bars are a valuable addition to any home security strategy. They provide a physical and visual deterrent that can significantly reduce your risk of break-ins. Burglar bars and other window security options are great for keeping homes safe. The FBI says burglaries went down 37% from 2010 to 2019 in areas using more physical security.
Whether you choose bars, films, alarms, or strong glass, the key is picking what works for your home. Think about how it looks, how it works, and what you need. Using a mix of different security methods often works best. This keeps your home safe and gives you peace of mind.
