Whether you’re purchasing security screens for a K-12 school, a university campus, a public housing facility or a hospital, one fact holds true – your investment in window protection must be beneficial to the look and function of your building, and the safety of those inside.

In rounds one, two and three, we’ll explore “non-ideal” vs. “ideal” window security options.
(You may be surprised to learn that a number of “non-ideal” solutions actually cost more than their better-looking counterparts!)
ROUND 1: DIAMOND MESH GUARDS vs. SECURITY SCREENS

   Window Protection  Diamond Mesh Guards

vs.

Window Protection Security Screens

Diamond Mesh Guards

  • Although diamond mesh guards offer protection similar to security screens, their “look” is institutional, obvious and obtrusive, working against the design of the facade.  In addition, visibility is drastically diminished both from the interior and exterior perspectives.

Security Screens

  • Security screens, like Kane’s Level 4 Steel Narrowline Security Screen pictured above, offer just as much protection as diamond mesh, but with a cleaner aesthetic and an incredible degree of visibility.  (Plus, their cost is lower!)

*WINNER*:  Security Screens

ROUND 2: PADLOCKED SECURITY GRILLES vs. SECURITY SCREENS

       Window Protection Padlocked Security Grilles 

vs.

 Window Protection Security Screens

Padlocked Security Grilles

  • If you think the only downside to these grilles is their prison-like appearance, think again.  Grilles like the ones pictured above present an even greater drawback:  no glass or window protection, due to the large spaces on either side of the barrier.  Although they will keep intruders out, their locking mechanism is a pad lock, which means no emergency egress for those inside, in the event of a fire, or other unfortunate crisis situation.

Security Screens

  • When a screen is side-hinged with a “lift-quick” locking device, such as the Kane security screen above, exiting in an emergency takes minimal effort for someone who needs to evacuate the building quickly.  Plus, security screens offer a much cleaner, non-prison-like aesthetic, which is appreciated by facility personnel and neighbors alike.

*WINNER*:  Security Screens

ROUND 3:  FORMED PAN SCREENS vs SECURITY SCREENS

       Window Protection Formed Pan Screens

vs.

Window Protection  Window Protection  Security Screens 

Formed Pan Screens

  • Aside from the poor aesthetic these screens provide, the lack of a solid frame (or any frame at all, for that matter) creates a distinct vulnerability to forcible entry attacks.  Formed pan screens are often mounted with a number of gaps between the window opening and the edge of the screen, serving as an open invitation for intruders to pry off the screen, break the glass, and enter the building.

Security Screens 

  • The Kane screen pictured in the second photo sits perfectly inside window opening, free of gaps and spaces that could make the window susceptible to entry by an intruder.  Plus, the look is clean, finished and virtually invisible.

*WINNER*:  Security Screens

THE FINAL CALL:
For aesthetics, cost and overall safety, security screens lead the way in window protection, every time.  For more information on security screens and how they can help protect your facility, call 800.773.2439.