A GUIDE TO SECURITY GLAZING
Security glazing
October 2010
Glass: For enhanced security, toughened or laminated glass may be used in the double glazed sealed units.
These are safety glasses which will also provide added protection against burglary. However, there is an issue regarding fire escape. To break out of a locked window through two panes of toughened glass will need a glass punch. Laminated glass will provide even greater challenges to both breaking and entering and exit.
Building Regulations since 2002 have required fire escape windows to be installed in all habitable rooms (this would exclude kitchens, utility rooms and bathrooms).
If safety glass is considered as an additional security measure, it will be essential that all windows should have provision for fire escape.
Locks: Most double glazed windows nowadays are manufactured with espagnolette locking with keep vents. Shoot bolts and dog bolts can be specified as additional security measures. These extra measures, coupled with security hinges will provide a considerable resistance to even the most determined burglar.
Glazing systems: Windows and doors may be glazed internally or externally.
Internal glazing means that the glass units are installed with glazing beads inserted into the frames from the inside.
External glazing means that the glass units are installed with glazing beads inserted into the frames from the outside.
Both are equally secure, provided either security tape or glass locks are installed, with external beading.
Internally glazed windows will provide smaller glass areas, due to the fact that both operating handles and glazing beads are on the inside.
For further information, contact John Reed, Technical Executive
02074043099
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