The Pane of Window Maintenance

Posted 26th September 2016 by Helen LeachThe importance of good window safety and security cannot be underestimated. Taking the appropriate steps to make sure windows are in good enough condition to retain their effectiveness is crucial, whether you want to keep burglars out or keep children or vulnerable people safe.

Your requirements from your windows in residential properties may also change over time, perhaps if you have young children or elderly family members. Commercial property owners, meanwhile, may look to prepare for changing threats to security.

Put simply, it pays to look after your windows and to focus on them on a regular basis.

Financial Outlay

A significant reason for regular and smart window maintenance is cost, because windows can be an expensive part of any building. Replacing a window wholesale can require a significant financial outlay and although the benefits of upgrading – such as from older to newer or more insulated models – can demonstrate energy savings or reduced insurance premiums, such changes require careful planning.

Figures from the industry suggest that small, single panel window replacements can cost between £100 and £200, while larger windows, such as ‘bay’ style, can reach to over £500. As a result, for many people a more realistic strategy than regular replacement is ensuring that they maintain their windows and upgrade them where possible.

Additional Features

The range of upgrades and additional features, such as security enhancements, must be carefully weighed against your current needs and future requirements. For example, if the quality of your window deteriorates, it will make it easier for burglars to open them from the outside and may even invalidate your insurance policy.

If it isn’t possible to replace your windows in the near future, you should combine maintenance through re-sealing and repairs to locking and closing mechanisms, with additional security features minimising the risk of attracting and falling foul of thieves.

Windows in residential properties may require a range of upgrades. Safety products such as window restrictors can ensure that the risk of falling is minimised. Regarding security, older windows may benefit from upgrades such as vandal shields to improve their resilience and prevent breakage.

Window Security in Businesses

Changing security needs for businesses will require different types of products. Window grilles and fixed bars are a way of deterring thieves and vandals, as well as acting as a significant preventative against break-ins. For more critical areas, roller shutters may be preferable as they provide a strong physical barrier as well as a visual deterrent.

Unfortunately, windows that are in poor condition create safety, security and insurance validation risks. However, with planning and identifying your requirements, maintenance and upgrades can be a cost-efficient solution, rather than complete replacement.

To find out more information on Window Security, speak to one of our specialists on 0161 413 0766 or send us an email.