5 reasons to stay away from anti-burglary window films
The so-called anti-burglary window film is a simple and effective way to protect your home, but only in theory. The reality is much scarier and a film like this can do you more harm than good. What’s more, inept installation and the passing years can be cause many aesthetic problems.
Below are 5 reasons why the anti-burglary window film does not adequately protect your home against thieves, and why anti-burglary glass is a better, and above all, a more effective solution.
1. The Norm EN 356 classifies films as safe, not anti-burglary
“Anti-burglary” window films are only anti-burglary by name. During the tests, the films glued to the outer surface of the glass complied only with P1 and P2 classification. A glass with an anti-burglary film has a thickness of only 4 mm, which classifies it as a safe glass. This means it protects against breakage in the event of a sudden closing of a window or a door, or shattering on the floor and harming someone. In comparison, MEGAL anti-burglary glass has certification in classes from P3 to P8; the thinnest glass is about 10mm thick, and the thickest – about 25mm. Therefore, our glass provides real protection against burglary attempts.
2. The film might actually help the thief in breaking into your home!
In most cases, the anti-burglary film is installed on existing windows. A specialist sticks it only in the so-called glass light and cuts it at the rubber seal. For a burglar, it makes the task of breaking in a lot easier. It allows them to push the entire glazing unit out completely, and additionally protects them against injury. In some cases the anti-burglary film provides more security for the burglar rather than for your home. On the contrary, this cannot take place with professionally installed anti-burglary glass panes in windows with anti-burglary fittings and key-locked handles.
3. Anti-burglary film can contribute to the spread of fire
The material which the anti-burglary films are made from is highly flammable. If they are glued on the inside and a fire is ignited in a room, they can contribute to its spread. There were also cases of arson of film glued from the outside. The high temperature leads to the glass shattering completly.
4. Poorly installed film will not look good
DIY film installation can be the cause of many aesthetic problems. Impurities creeping in between the glass and the film are difficult to eliminate without proper equipment and preparation. For an inexperienced person to get rid of all the air bubbles, it would be extremly difficult. What is more, poorly made assembly may result in distortion of the image and light.
5. Anti-burglary film is not a life-long investment
Anti-burglary films do not pass the test of time. Exposure to sunlight might cause them to shrink and become dull. This is not only an aesthetic problem; it informs a potential burglar about the means used to secure the house. As a result, the film needs to be regurarly replaced, repurchased and reapplied. On the contrary, MEGAL anti-burglary glass serves its users for many years to come. Temperature changes or pollution have no effect on them whatsoever.
To sum up, the anti-burglary foil can work in some places, but not when talking about protecting our house or flat against burglary. Here, the best solution is anti-burglary glass, which will not only please the eye for many years, but above all, ensure real safety. Here at MEGAL, we value your safety, which is why we manufacture our products only from the highest quality material. For a free quote and professional advice in choosing the right solution, please do not hesitate to contact us.