Protect Your Home in Ottawa: The Best Window Types to Increase Security

Ottawa may be a low crime area within Canada, but that doesn't mean that break-ins don't happen. When somebody breaks into your home, they are likely to come through your windows. Fortunately, there are several options for highly energy efficient windows that also serve to boost your home's security. If you are concerned about the safety of your family and your possessions, consider getting one of the following window types when you do your next window replacement project.

Casement Windows

Perhaps the most secure and energy efficient windows that still open from the inside, casement windows operate using a hand crank instead of sliding panes. This means more moving parts within the window, which also means that breaking in isn't as easy as manipulating a single lock and then sliding a glass pane up its sheath. The added size of casement windows combined with the fact that they usually require larger frame means that they cost more up front when you first install them. However, that cost quickly gets mitigated thanks to the fact that they are more energy efficient than most other windows. If you value security in your home, you should strongly consider installing new casement windows Ottawa.

Bay Windows

Bay windows have a larger glass surface than other window types, which may give you some pause when considering whether they are secure or not. However, you need to remember that burglars are most likely to break into a home not by smashing glass but rather by manipulating a window lock. Therefore, any window style that gives you a chance to add a lock that is difficult to reach from the outside gives you a better level of security than anything else. Bay windows provide a high level of elegance with a locking mechanism that is difficult for burglars to pry open. The only thing you need to make sure of is that you use the proper blinds and curtains to make sure that people from the streets can't see into your home unless you want them to.

Single Pane Windows

If you want secure windows and have a tight budget, you might be able to get what you are looking for with some simple single pane windows. Although slightly old fashioned, these windows have a distinct advantage over their double pane counterparts. Because they only have one movable pane instead of two, they are more difficult for intruders to manipulate. These windows also have excellent weather resistance, since the lining of the non-movable portion of the windows doesn't accumulate as much wear and tear. If you want to stick with an older fashioned looking window or simply have a budget to be concerned about, you can still get a big boost from using simple single pane windows.

Other factors in your window selection should include viewable space from the streets and the height of your windows. If you have any doubts about what sort of window is right for your security concerns, it is a good idea to consult with a reliable Ottawa window manufacturer and installer. A company like Canadian Choice Windows and Doors has seen virtually everything and can give you a detailed security analysis along with a recommendation. Reach out to them today to figure out what sort of windows will protect your family and possessions the best.