Thinking security most people have visions of steel doors, thick glass, locking systems that are hard to operate, and limited color choices. This does not have to be the case. Security features come in specific categories: Frame and wall connections, hardware, glass and fillings. Within these categories the level of security you want to achieve can be defined.

Bullet resistance requires steel frames and sashes. The steel can be sandwiched in wood. It is possible to have a beautifully finished mahogany door that is resistant to. small arms fire. Thinner steel sandwiched in wood provides security for most other applications, such as saws, drills, wedges, sledgehammers and such. Often forgotten but most important are the wall connections of your security windows and doors. Lag bolts from the frame to the wall have to be strong and firmly established in distances determined by the envisioned level of security. If the walls are 2 by 4 wood frames or brittle brick, the door security does not matter. A determined attacker will be able to break the door or window out of the wall.

Hardware is crucial. Security units require hardened steel hinges, strike plates, and multiple locks. The hinge pins have to be secured so that they can only be removed once the door or window is open. Ideally, locking points should include the corners of the door or window. The should not just slide in place but have mushroom heads that cannot be pried out of the receptacles.

Finally, glass and fillings. There are lots of options for glass. Security levels are determined by the thickness of glass, its hardness, and the laminates in between panes. The higher the impact resistance, the stronger the laminations. Most people would not be able to tell security glass from any other, unless they would have to lift it. However, laminated, tempered glass alone will not provide security. The glass (or wood panels sandwiched with steel) have to be glued to the frame of the windows or doors. That will make sure that, even if the glass has been broken, it cannot be removed from the unit. The downside of security glass glued into the frames is that, once broken, the whole sash has to be replaced. Even our installers will have a very rough time cutting security glass out of sashes.

There you have it: Have a beautiful hardwood door and large windows with the finishes you like while you can feel safe in your home.