Windows represent one of the weakest links in physical security. It’s important business owners upgrade their window security.
The goal of this guide is to walk you through everything you need to know about commercial window security solutions.
Let’s dive in!
What you’ll learn:
- Why Physical Security Should Be a Top Priority for Business Owners
- Physical Security Risks Every Business Owner Fears
- Why Windows Are Often the Biggest Weakness for Buildings
- The Different Types of Window Security Solutions
- Other Ways to Enhance Physical Security
- How to Identify the Security Risks Your Business Faces
Why Physical Security Should Be a Top Priority for Business Owners
Physical security threats aren’t going anywhere.
Business owners know it. That’s why the global physical security market size surpassed $113 billion USD last year.
Criminals are constantly developing new methods to break into buildings and steal merchandise. Smash and grab robberies are more popular than ever.
And they often start with a window.
Install Bullet Proof Windows for Maximum Security
If your business is at high risk of violent break-ins, consider installing bullet-proof-windows. These are the most secure solutions available.
Ballistic-rated windows can’t be breached with conventional force. They provide the highest level of protection from criminals.
Business owners who install bullet proof windows are taking security to the next level.
Commercial Property Break-In Statistics Every Owner Should Know
Consider this…
Just last year, 42,508 commercial properties were broken into throughout the United States. Restaurants, Convenience stores, office buildings, and retail locations all appear on this list.
You name it, thieves are trying to break in.
Smaller businesses tend to be at higher risk simply because they lack proper security measures. Professional burglars know this.
Four Types of Commercial Establishments Most Prone to Break-Ins
- Restaurants: 23,358 burglaries
- Convenience stores: 12,397 burglaries
- Construction sites: 12,979 burglaries
- Retail and discount stores: 12,283 burglaries
This isn’t a complete list. Thieves will hit any place they believe will be easy money.
The scary part is that most break-ins occur during daylight hours. Obviously, criminals don’t want to get caught. They try to strike when they think nobody is looking.
Why Windows Are Often the Biggest Weakness for Buildings
Don’t overlook your windows during a security audit.
The FBI reports that 23% of burglars entered through a window. Think about that for a second.
When most people think about breaking into a building, they don’t start with the windows. Yet criminals target them all the time.
It’s because conventional windows provide almost no resistance.
A robber can smash through the glass in seconds and reach right in. Break-ins happen that fast.
Installing Security Windows Helps Thwart Break-Ins
Security windows are a great place to start if you’re looking to improve building security. Don’t forget about reinforcing doors and locks as well.
Protect Your Business from Smash-and-Grab Theft
Thieves aren’t bashful about stealing either. If they see an opportunity to grab some merchandise and run, they will take it.
The Different Types of Window Security Solutions
Security windows come in many forms. Business owners have several options when they want to beef up their physical security.
Upgrade Your Windows With Security Film
Security film adds an extra layer of protection to your existing windows. The added layer will prevent criminals from gaining immediate access through the window.
Once the glass breaks, the film helps keep everything together. It won’t stop a break-in, but it will make your windows more resistant to attack.
Add Reinforced Glass to Prevent Smash-and-Grab Theft
Outfit your business with reinforced glass windows. These include tempered glass, as well as laminated glass options.
Reinforced windows are stronger than regular glass. It takes more effort for criminals to break them.
Upgrade Your Windows to Bulletproof Glass
As mentioned previously, bullet proof windows are your best bet for preventing break-ins. Once installed properly, there is no way a criminal will get through those windows.
Window Bars and Grilles Deter Burglars
Window bars and grilles are another physical option for business owners looking to secure their buildings. Even if someone breaks the glass, the metal bars will prevent them from entering the premises.
Other Ways to Enhance Physical Security
Window security is one piece of the larger security puzzle. There are many ways to improve your physical security as a business owner.
Install Access Control Systems
Limit who can access your building and when. Access control systems allow you to do just that.
You can record who enters and exits your building throughout the day. Some access control systems even allow you to restrict access to certain areas of your business.
Installing Video Surveillance Systems
Add video surveillance to your property. Cameras are a great deterrent for criminals.
They don’t want to be caught on video. And if they do end up breaking in, you’ll have plenty of evidence to submit to the police.
Purchase Commercial Alarm Systems
Install a commercial alarm system. A monitored alarm ensures someone is listening 24/7.
When the alarm goes off, emergency services are dispatched right away. Response time is critical when stopping criminals in the act.
Use Lighting to Your Advantage
Add more lighting to your property. Motion-activated lights can help highlight suspicious activity.
How to Identify the Security Risks Your Business Faces
Not every business is susceptible to the same security risks. You need to evaluate your business and identify where you need more protection.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What do you have that needs protecting?
- Where are the entry points to your business?
- How secure are your windows and doors?
- Do you have enough surveillance coverage?
- How long before emergency responders arrive?
Get a free security consultation to learn more about how you can protect your business.
Window Security FAQs
What is physical security?
Physical security focuses on preventative measures to stop criminals from stealing your property. It includes things like cameras, alarms, door locks, window security, lighting, and more.
What are some common physical security mistakes?
Business owners often make the mistake of thinking they don’t need security. Every business can benefit from added security layers. If you don’t have security, you’re simply inviting trouble.
Another mistake business owners make is failing to update old security systems. Just because your security system worked ten years ago, doesn’t mean it’s enough today.
Is physical security expensive?
Not necessarily. There are cheap ways to improve your physical security. But if your business is high-risk, you may need to spend money on more advanced security systems.
Wrapping It Up
Taking care of your physical security should be every business owner’s top priority. There’s no doubt about it.
Do you know where your weaknesses lie? Do you have windows that can be broken into with little resistance?
It’s time to make your business a hard target.
