Best Window Security Bar: Reviews, Buying Guide, and FAQs 2023

I never fail to constantly update my smart home with newer and better smart home accessories. With all these smart home appliances linked to one another, I can't help but think about cybersecurity and my home's security.

In addition to the video doorbells and cameras installed in each gateway and around my home, I still deemed it fit to get window security bars for my windows. The reason is that 23% of burglaries are carried out through the windows.

Gone are the days when people leave their car keys in the car and their doors open for long. The level of trust was high since everybody knew everybody in town. Nowadays, the opposite is the case; thus, everyone needs to protect what belongs to them.

Top Window Security Bar 2023 by Editors

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• Bestseller No. 1
  
  Ideal Security BK112W Window Security Bar with Child-Proof Lock, Adjustable, 10.6 to...
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• Bestseller No. 2
  
  Grisham 36 in. x 54 in. Spear Point 7-Bar Security Bar Window Guard, White
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• Bestseller No. 3
  
  Wedgit White Maxi Twist Tight Adjustable Sliding Window & Door Security bar extends from...
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• Bestseller No. 4
  
  Defender Security SEGAL S 4775 Hinged Window Guard, 22-Inch - 38-Inch x 21-Inch, 4-Bar,...
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• Bestseller No. 5
  
  Jeacent Adjustable Window Security Bar, Patio Door Lock - Sturdy Steel, Extends from 15...
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• Bestseller No. 6
  
  Roe & Moe Telescoping Window Security Guard Bars Prevent Forced Entry - extends from...
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• Bestseller No. 7
  
  Window Security Bar - 16.5" - 30"
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• Bestseller No. 8
  
  Knape & Vogt John Sterling Swing-Open Style 6-Bar Child Safety and Window Guard, White,...
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• Bestseller No. 9
  
  International Closeouts Security Bar for Sliding Glass Doors
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• Bestseller No. 10
  
  Fairy Baby Child Window Guards for Children Safety Window Gate Security Bars White,Fit...
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A home is a protective, safe, and personal place for the occupants and their loved ones, and this is why one must ensure that unwanted visitors are kept out. We always pay close attention to the windows when renting or building a house, and we often check for the shape, dressing, position, size, and trim but hardly consider the security factor.

Yes, intruders will always try their possible best to gain access into your home if you've got valuable things. This is where the window security bars come in as one of the best ways to secure your windows.

Even with locked doors, the best security systems, and window sensors, the windows can still be the house owner's weak point, depriving them of a sound sleep at night. Hence to be on the safe side, it's better to add window security bars to your home security system.

The use of window security bars is one effective way to beef up the security of your home physically. More significantly, the indoor window security bars effectively ensure your kids are kept safe from falling off an open window. No matter the reason, I believe window security bars are worth investing in.

After taking a close look at the installation and removal procedure, price, design, and other vital features, I have compiled a list of the best window security bars in 2023 you can choose from. The listed products are perfect for keeping your kids safe by ensuring they do not fall from an open window and keeping intruders away from your home. There is also a well-detailed buying guide highlighting the various factors you need to consider when purchasing a window security bar.

Before getting to the recommended list, here's a couple of vital information you need to know about window security bars.

What Are Window Security Bars?

Window security bars are defensive metal bars constructed for windows, and they were created with the sole aim of making entry into any home via the window nearly impossible.

They are typically made by attaching heavy-duty metals bars over the window, with enough space for air inflow.

There are different types of these window security bars; they include;

1. Hinged Bars

This type of window security bar offers its users the advantage of restricted access via the windows. These window security bars can be unlocked and swung open for cleaning.

Also, the window can serve as an emergency exit in emergencies since this kind of window bar can be opened.

2. Permanent Bars

These kinds of window security bars are installed to make them permanent and provide long-term dedicated security.

3. Removable Bars

Just like the name implies, these kinds of window bars are removable.

With removable window security bars, you get an unobstructed window in the daytime and a secured window at night.

This type of window bar is perfect for business storefronts, and it can also be used at home.

Windows made using metal bars provide an additional layer of security for your house since they are effective visual methods in preventing intruders from entering your home.

Why Use Window Security Bars

You are probably aware of the numerous events happening in the world unless you stay in an underground bunker full-time.

Numerous countries are in chaos with natural disasters and food shortages. And because of this, people are grabbing and snatching all they can get without recourse.

In other words, desperate people do desperate things, and trust me; you wouldn't want to be a house break-in victim.

This is why the use of window security bars is essential, as it helps prevent unwanted guests from gaining access via your window.

Below are some of the benefits window security bars provide.

1. Burglary

Intruders trying to gain access into any home would probably want the most straightforward way in.

On the other hand, Windows are weak points to gain access; hence, upgrading your home's security system by adding window security bars to your windows is crucial.

2. Keep Pets Safe

Often, we open our windows to allow for the inflow of air and endangering the lives of our pets.

Hence, secure your windows with window security bars to ensure that your dog or cat doesn't slip out when you are not around.

3. Protect Your Business

If you own a business located in a property that is not yours, it is vulnerable to burglary.

Yes, you and your staff will be around during the daytime, but what happens at night when everyone leaves. Gaining access to the building through the windows will be pretty easy.

However, by installing the best window security bars, you will be able to remedy the situation. These bars will ensure that your business is secured at night.

4. Off-Grid Cabin/Bug Out Location

As a survivalist living in a remote bug-out location, you must secure your area since it's a place to run to when there is a crisis.

This place is usually filled with weapons, food supplies, and survival gears; hence, staying alive means securing it. The best way to get this done is by using window security bars for its windows.

5. Children

A window left open can be a dangerous falling threat for kids, and I'm sure you don't want that to be your case.

With window security bars, you can leave your windows open for as long as you want, and your kids, on the other hand, can get some fresh air and see outside without risking falling off.

Unique Window Security Bar Features

In addition to its safety feature, window security bars come with several other features. Check them out below.

1. Widow security bars come with either a head that uses a unique tool to help turn them around or a slip side.

2. Most products feature special tamper-resistant screws, perfect for exterior window bars. With these screws, it's challenging to access the house since it requires a special type of tool.

3. Most products come with a quick-release feature, making it easy for users to get through the window if need be. This has proven very helpful, especially during an emergency like a fire outbreak.

4. These window bars are made from solid materials most intruders can't overcome.

5. Most models feature spear edges, which provide additional security against burglary.

Where to Mount Window Security Bars

I feel the question should be, "where shouldn't I install a window security bar?"

Every window in your business place, home, and the cabin is prone to break-ins; hence should be protected with a window bar.

If possible, I recommend getting a window security bar for each window. If the cost happens to be the problem, I will advise you to start with the most exposed windows.

Below are some of the places you need to install a window security bar.

1. Backyard Windows

These are back windows, usually off the streets. They also feature more sliding glass doors and windows than any other part of the house.

Once an intruder can gain access into the backyard, they can freely move around unnoticed.

2. Basement Windows

These windows are pretty easy to get to; hence the intruder can quickly get to it without hassle.

3. Blocked Windows

These are glass doors or windows located behind bushes and trees. They usually give intruders enough time to access your home while being camouflaged.

4. Child Assessable Windows

If you own a low window that your kids can easily access, you need to protect them.

Sadly, many kids have lost their lives by dropping off an open window.

5. Business Glass

Any business building entrance made with glass can be easily smashed, and this is why you must install window security bars to provide overnight security.

Top 4 Best Window Security Bars In 2023

1. Grisham Spear Point 7-Bar Window Guard - Link

If you have ever hoped for a beautiful and functional window security bar that can be acquired at an affordable price, then this is the perfect product for you.

The Grisham spear point 7-bar window guard features a distinct finish. It is an exterior window bar installed on the outer part of the window. It also features a swirling center and spear-point edges designs, giving it an intentional design choice other than a prison cell.

The product also features a quick-release function, allowing the window to grant access for escape in case of an emergency. Additionally, the Grisham spear point 7-bar window guard features an affordable price tag compared to most window security bars. This makes the Grisham spear point 7-bar window guard a perfect option for your upper and lower level windows.

The Grisham spear point 7-bar window guard has one disadvantage; its size is not adjustable. Alternatively, the Grisham brand offers closely identical designs with varied sizes, ranging down to 24 in. x 36 in., providing you with literally all the products in every standard window size. However, if the said window has a weird dimension, it is better to stay away from Grisham products.

Pros

• The Grisham spear point 7-bar window guard feature a powder-coated finish.
• The product features a quick-release function.
• It is highly affordable.
• The Grisham spear point 7-bar window guard product features a decorative center and spear-point edges design.
• The product comes with matching mounting material, although they will cost you extra cash.

Cons

• The Grisham spear point 7-bar window guard's size cannot be adjusted.

2. Defender Security SEGAL S 4775 Hinged Window Guard - Link

The Defender Security SEGAL S 4775 Hinged window guard is another unique window security bar. It is perfect for people looking for simple security bars to secure them against invasion and their children from falling off while leaning on the window ledge.

The product is not a fancy one as it is made up of black steel bars mounted on the interior side of the window. Yes, the black color may make it hard for the bars to blend into your interior home design, but then the black color also means that the intruders will not miss them, making your home less of an easy point for intruders in search of quick access.

Also, the Defender security SEGAL S 4775 Hinged window guard comes with screws for mounting the bars, so you do not have to spend extra cash to get them. And given its cheap price tag, it's a big plus for you.

The Segal brand also emphasizes that its window security bars mainly protect kids or cats and dogs (pet lovers) from falling off the window. This explains why the spacing between the bars is pretty close to each other.

The Defender Security SEGAL S 4775 Hinged window guard is perfect for interior windows. The window security bar is perfect for windows where the visual appearance doesn't matter, just like the upper-level bedroom windows.

Pros

• The Defender Security SEGAL S 4775 Hinged window guard's size can be adjusted.
• The product comes with an affordable price tag.
• The product comes with tamper-resistant screws.
• The product also features a quick-release function.
• There is less space between the security bars.

Cons

• The product features plain aesthetics.

3. Segal S 4752 Fixed Adjustable Child Safety Window Guard - Link

The Segal S 4752 fixed adjustable child safety window guard is another versatile and durable window bar available in the market today.

The product is produced from a thick 0.48-inch carbon steel tubing. They are also available in three colors; bronze, white and black.

There is more. This product is a fixed window guard, featuring a bar spacing of 7/8th inches, making it effective and perfect for protecting pets and kids from falling off the windows in worst cases.

The bars are equally adjustable before installation (ranging from 32 ½ to 54 inches). On the other hand, the installation process is straightforward and can be done in less than 25 minutes. Additionally, unlike some products, the mounting brackets are part of the product's package, providing you with a flawless and quick installation.

Another fantastic feature worth noting is that this product features one-way tamper-proof installation screws. With this, intruders will need plenty of time and some special equipment before they can break-in, which will ultimately discourage them from trying.

Thanks to the rubber-stamp quality, this product meets New York's and New Jersey's housing codes.

However, one disadvantage of the product lies in its inability to meet the egress code requirement. This is because the window bars are permanently mounted with no quick-release mechanism in case of an emergency. Hence, this product should not be used or mounted in rooms with no emergency exit.

Pros

• The product is available in three colors, bronze, white and black.
• The permanent window security bars are sturdy and perfect for preventing intruders from gaining access to your home.
• The product is perfect for ensuring that your kids are safe.
• All the hardware needed for the installation process is included in the product's package.

Cons

• The product doesn't come with a quick-release feature; hence shouldn't be mounted on windows located in rooms with no emergency exit.

4. Spear Point Window Bar Guard - Link

The Spear Point window bar guard is another incredible product to consider if you want to purchase the best window security bar. The product comprises seven (7) well-spaced welded tubular steel bars. The bars are spaced enough to prevent the invader from breaking in or accessing your window.

There is more. The Spear Point window bar guard is a decorative window bar featuring a stylish centerpiece, making it a fantastic exterior window bar. The product is equally available in numerous sizes, ranging from 24 x 54 to 42 x 42.

The product also comes with two (2) color options, white and black, easily matching any home decoration.

The window security bar features a powder coat finish making the product highly durable and weather-resistant. In other words, the product is rustproof, hence capable of withstanding weather elements. This feature makes the Spear Point window bar guard a highly reliable product, even in extreme weather conditions.

The window security bar is lightweight, weighing about 10.5lbs. it also features five (5) inches bar spacing.

Also, since most fire departments insist that all window security bars should feature a quick-release function in case of an emergency such as a fire outbreak, the Spear Point window bar guard is designed to allow for a quick escape.

The installation is equally secure and versatile. The mounting bracket (purchased separately) includes non-reversing 3-inch safety screws to ensure a secured installation.

There are three main mounting brackets to choose from. You can decide to go for the projection brackets, the flush-mount brackets, or the inside window frame mount brackets.

Pros

• The product is resistant to rust.
• There are matching installation brackets for the product.
• The product features a white or black powder-coated finish.
• The product is made from sturdy steel, making it the perfect product to deter invaders.
• There is a quick-release feature, allowing the residents to escape quickly in case of an emergency.
• The product is a decorative bar, which adds more beauty to your home decoration.

Cons

• The installation brackets are purchased separately.

Buying Guide for the Best Window Security Bar In 2023

As simple as purchasing a window security bar sounds, there are many factors to consider if you want to make the right choice. This includes the material used for the construction, the size, and the installation process. You should settle for a premade window security bar if you have a conventionally large or weirdly shaped window. They are usually hard to get.

I remember spending several hours trying to purchase the best window security bars for my windows. To make the right decision, I had to consider the material, installation process, locking mechanism, and adjustability of the product.

Hence, purchasing the best window security bar isn't that complicated, as long as you know the right thing to do. At first, you must focus on your preferences, distinguishing your possibilities from your mandataries. Below are a couple of factors to consider when purchasing any window security bar for your windows.

1. Primary Purpose

Window security bars have one primary function: protecting house owners from invasions. While most products are strong enough to achieve this primary function on their own, others are connected to security systems, motion detectors, or silent alarms remotely triggering an emergency response.

2. Preferred Position

While some window security bars are mounted on the interior aspect of the window, others are installed on the exterior part. The internal window bars are more delicate and can't be noticed from the outside.

Both window bar types come with their pros and cons; this, it's left for you to evaluate them and go for the style that suits your home.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

Most burglaries are not planned. In most cases, break-ins are a crime of opportunity, where the invader cased the area, sneaking into whichever home is easily accessible.

Thus, having an exterior window security bar that prevents invaders on sight is excellent. However, you might still want to go for products that appeal to both family and friends.

4. Style Selection

Although most window security bars are in metal, few come in plastic. You can also decide to go for curved, twisted, or angled bars.

Suppose you wish to settle for portable window bars. In that case, you should go for a single expandable piece mounted horizontally, or preferably, you can go for a set of five or four retractable vertical bars, which you can position yourself for a better result.

5. Type of Window Security Bar

Knowing the type of product to go for is another crucial factor to consider before purchasing any window bar.

Permanent window security bars are usually installed on exterior windows. They are perfect for this if only the windows open inwards.

On the other hand, removable window security bars are usually used for large institutional or commercial windows. This is because they are hardly available in domestic sizes.

6. Neighborhood Regulations

Most localities require every home to have a grilled fire escape route with easy access if the need arises. Also, if you stay in a gated community, the Homeowners Association (HoA) often has restrictions on the color, type, style, and size of the window bars.

7. Installation Process

Portable window bars are usually clipped or snapped into place. They do not require special installation.

On the other hand, exterior window security bars might need welding and have to be anchored into the frame of the house. Thus, the help of a professional contractor is often required.

Other window security bars are usually part of a complete security package, requiring electronic components and control panels.

8. Cost

Cost is another essential factor you must consider when purchasing window security bars. The cost of mounting a window security bar depends on a couple of things, such as the design and size of the window bars, since every house has unique window numbers, shapes, and sizes.

Also, while most window security bars are easy to mount, others, especially the decorative ones, are complex and complicated to install.

The average cost of mounting window security bars for an entire house ranges from $900 to $1,500.

While a single, small basement window will likely cost around $200 or more, while the larger ones will cost from $300 to $500.

9. Product Availability

Most people think that this isn't an essential factor to consider. However, we are limited to the products in stock when we visit an online shop or hardware store in most cases. Hence, do not rush to security blogs or Pinterest and fall in love with a particular window security bar style that is not yet available in your location.

Also, ordering from a far distance will cost you more. So, it is better to stick to the options close to you.

Mounting Window Security Bars

1. Mounting Exterior Security Bars

Depending on the material used for the siding, installing exterior window security bars on a single-window is something an average house owner can get done in a few minutes to an hour. It will take more time if the siding is concrete or brick. You have to position the window bars where you want them to be to get this done. Next, level them horizontally and vertically using a spirit level, after which you mark the spots of the holes as seen on the mounting brackets.

Next, drill a pilot hole on every mark, after which you reposition the window bars, driving in a non-reversing security screw into every hole to help keep the window bars in position.

When mounting on a stone, brick, or masonry, you will need to drill a giant hole enough to contain a conical screw anchor. This can be achieved using a masonry bit, and this process might take some time. Also, it will be helpful if you bring a bowl of water close, which will be used to dip the bit periodically to avoid it from overheating.

Ensure that the hole is between 1/2 to 1 inch deeper than the screw length. And once you've succeeded in drilling it, tap the anchor to ensure all four (4) anchors are in position. Then you can proceed with mounting the bars.

Exterior window security bars often do not support egress; hence ensure check-in with your code requirements before proceeding with the installation process. These codes permit them to be used on some windows as long as there is enough egress via the other windows in the building.

2. Mounting Interior Security Bars

Most interior window security bars feature quick-release mechanisms, allowing you to open a grille just like a door or get rid of it together with the frame.

The few ones that open often meet the ADA egress requirements, as they provide a 20-inch wide and 24-inch high escape opening.

Also, before proceeding with the installation process, please ensure you check in with the building department, especially when installing window bars that feature a locking mechanism that needs a key. Since the key can get lost at some point, it will likely not meet the egress requirements.

Below initiating the installation process for an interior window bar, ensure that it does fit in the window frame. Also, ensure that the product comes with an installation kit that includes screws and rails.

Each installation manual will outline the various procedures involved in installing the product you've got.

In general, all you have to do is slide one of the rails onto the bar set, then screw the other into the window frame. Next is to slide the window bars into the rail link to the window frame. End by locking the remaining rail to the window frame.

When installing the rails, ensure that you plum them with a level. Next, mark the position of the holes and drill pilot holes in the frame using an appropriate bit size (usually 5/16-inch or ¼-inch). The screws that come with the product installation kit are generally long enough to go deeply into the studs after the window frame. Hence, it will stay once the window bar set is perfectly installed on the rails.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) On the Best Window Security Bar In 2023

When is the right time to mount window security bars?

If you stay in a neighborhood experiencing a high rate of crime and home invasions, you should invest in window security bars as they are effective in beefing up your home security.

Also, you should consider window security bars if the neighborhood doesn't have an effective watch program, or maybe the police response in the said neighborhood is slow.

These window security bars are perfect for low-lying windows with easy access, such as basement and ground-level windows.

Are window bars effective?

Don't get it wrong; window security bars do not entirely protect your home from invasion; instead, they serve as deterrents, discouraging unwanted people from trying to break into your home.

This is because invaders always want and look for the quickest and easiest way to get into your home. Suppose, for instance; you have window security bars installed or mounted on your windows. In that case, an intruder is likely going to move on, looking for another house with easier and quicker access.

Where is the best place to place my window bars?

The location of your window security bar is essential as it helps determine how effective it will be. For example, mounting your window bars on your house's second or third story is almost insignificant. This is because intruders always go for low-lying windows in areas that are easily accessible such as a basement window, among other easily accessible entry points.

Is it possible to secure my windows without using window security bars?

Yes, you can. With the use of alarm systems and thicker glass, you can secure your windows without the use of window security bars.

Are these window security bars legal?

Yes, they are legal; however, it is better to talk to your landlord first before installing one if you live in a rental home.

Conclusion

One unfortunate reality about living in urban areas is the ever-present likelihood of intruders breaking into your home.

They might be intruders or worst. Also, they are more predominant in some urban areas than others. According to Forbes list, Detroit topped the list of the most dangerous U.S cities in 2017, followed by California, Missouri, Oakland, and St. Louis.

If you stay in any of the cities mentioned above, and even if you don't, you probably have heard of window security bars. Although they are not the only security option for your windows or necessarily the best option out there, they are easy to install and effectively prevent intruders from gaining access into your home.

Although there are different methods to install these windows bars depending on the product, there are two main ways to get it done.

The first and the least secure way is to get it done is by mounting the bars to the window frame outside using security screws that are hard to remove.

The second and better option is by mounting the window bars to the studs enclosing the window on the interior part of the window. This means that an intruder can break the window glass; however, they can't access the house without special cutting tools.

Before settling for any product, ensure that the product follows the local egress codes. Most building departments possess these codes to ensure that any building residents can easily escape if there is an emergency, including a fire outbreak.

I hope this was an interesting article. Feel free to share with your family and friends.