Security grilles are protective metal coverings for windows or openings and are defined by 2 main types: fixed grilles and removable grilles. Both protect windows and openings from being passed through and are forced entry resistant. However, they are used for different windows and openings. Knowing which type is best for your windows and openings can save you money and headaches.

Security grilles that are fixed to windows and openings, known as fixed grilles, are bolted or welded to your window frames. Once installed, these window coverings are not going anywhere until someone has to take some serious power tools to them. This is their main advantage, as they provide effective security.

Because there are no moving parts, no windows or hinges that can fail, and no locks that can be picked, they are very strong. They can be solid metal bars, mesh, or some other heavy and solid material. If someone tries to take them off, they look for an easier target. Most burglars don’t bother.

Fixed grilles require less time and effort to install than their removable counterparts. Installation is done by screwing fasteners into solid masonry or metal, and then moving on to the next. No mechanisms to maintain on the grilles, no locks to service, and no more work to be done. They do their jobs year after year with minimal attention.

But, the durability added can translate to hindrances. They can not be removed for cleaning, painting, or maintenance without redoing the entire installation. They are always visible, which not everyone likes. Some individuals are fine with the visibility, the added security will deter a criminal. Others, think it makes their property feel less hospitable.

Restricting people needs to be done carefully. If a permanent grille obstructs a window recognized as an emergency exit, a quick-release system will be necessary. There are mechanisms that meet safety standards as long as the grilles can be opened from the inside without assistance.

Removable Grilles – Flexibility Built In

Removable grilles are installed using fixings that allow you to take them off whenever. This could be done using padlocks and hinges, quick-release brackets, or lifting mechanisms. The main difference is that taking these off will not involve damaging anything or removing permanent fixings.

This flexibility is ideal for different circumstances. Holiday homes appreciate removable grilles. They can be installed when the property is vacant and removed when you are present. Windows that need to be protected, but receive maintenance often can be made practical. Some properties keep security during certain periods, but need to keep the appearance neat. These can have a removable grille as well.

Hinged grilles operate like gates. They can be unscrewed from their hinges, but they act more like external shutters. You can open them for access, but you close and padlock them for security. This is ideal for ground floor windows. It allows you to open the window for ventilation without losing security.

Quick-release systems use special brackets that allow you to lift the grille from the window once you have undone some security screws or locks. The brackets are left in place for future use, making the systems quick to re-fit. This is ideal for windows that get frequent cleaning or in properties where the security state gets changed a lot.

Security Differences

Purely on security, fixed grilles win. There are no hinges to lever, no brackets to force, and no weak points where the grille meets its mounting. They are about as close to being impossible to remove quickly as you can get without bricking up the window entirely.

With removable grilles, there are more potential weaknesses. Each point offers a potential for weak removal where there is a removal mechanism. Attacks on hinges with crowbars, padlocks are cut, quick release brackets can be forced. This is why quality is so important. Cheap removable grilles have minimal security as their mounting systems become weak points.

Good quality removable grilles do offer great security, to begin with. The mounting systems use hardened steel, concealed fixings, and anti-tamper designs. While removable grilles are not as secure as fixed grilles, they are certainly better than having your windows unprotected.

Practical Considerations

Window cleaning becomes complicated with fixed grilles as cleaning through bars limits access and makes it more difficult to do a thorough job. Depending on the unit, external cleaning may require professional window cleaning services. However, removable grilles allow you to completely remove and clean the unit.

Maintenance and repair work will face the same complications. Need to paint the window frames? That will require working around the fixed grilles. Is there broken glass that needs to be replaced? That job will be more difficult with the grilles. With removable grilles, you can take them away and let the tradespeople work unimpeded.

All insurance companies prefer fixed grilles as they are more secure, and they tend to qualify clients for better insurance terms. Some policies include conditions about installing fixed grilles to receive a premium discount or as a requirement for insurance coverage. Be sure to check your policy before making a final decision.

Cost Comparison

Fixed grilles certainly cost less up front. The installations are much more simple, require no moving parts, complex mounting systems or actions. The cost only includes the steel or aluminum bars, along with some basic fixings.

Removable grilles will always cost more as there are more systems that need to be put in place. Hinges, locks, quick release mechanisms, and tougher mounting brackets are more expensive. There is also more time setting it up, which will also cost more.

In terms of profitability, fixed grilles do have an advantage, seeing as there is also no maintenance involved, aside from an occasional repaint. When it comes to removable grilles, there are ongoing, albeit minor, costs. Hinges, lubricating, locks, servicing, and brackets must be checked.

Making the Choice

For those looking to take on the granules scenario and require maximum security with no need for maintenance, fixed grilles are the perfect option. For commercial premises, high-risk areas, and buildings that will not be renovated for an extended period of time, the enclosure will do wonders for durability and security.

When flexibility is needed, removable grilles are the better option. Perfect for holiday homes, buildings with heritage features you want to showcase, and settings where the appearance needs to vary to suit the occasion.

In this case, there is no option that is better than the other. Depending on your specific needs and how you use the property, there is a balance of risk, insurance requirements, and overall purpose of the enclosure. It’s all about balance, and this is what will give you the right option to fit your needs rather than assuming one option is a perfect fit to all.