Burglar bars are one of the most cost-effective security measures available to a Zimbabwean homeowner. They are simple, long-lasting and, when fitted properly, they do two jobs at once: they physically stop an intruder from getting through a window, and they act as a visible deterrent.
What burglar bars actually do
They are not a force field. What they do well is make the easy opportunity disappear. Most break-ins are opportunistic. A window that is visibly protected with strong bars is far less attractive than one that is not.
The main patterns to know
- Straight bars. Simple vertical or horizontal bars. Clean and cheap.
- Diamond or lattice patterns. Diagonal crossed bars forming a diamond shape. Very common in Zimbabwe.
- Decorative patterns. Squared spirals, scrolls and other shapes.
- Expandable / removable sections. Useful on windows used for emergency escape.
Material and finish
Most burglar bars in Zimbabwe are made from steel. Galvanised or powder-coated finishes will resist rust significantly better than a plain painted finish and are worth asking for.
Windows you should never fully seal
At least one bedroom window per room should have a burglar bar section that can be opened from inside in an emergency. This is not optional.
Questions to ask before you order
- What is the bar thickness and spacing?
- What finish are you using, and how long is it guaranteed for?
- Will you measure each window?
- Can at least one window per bedroom be opened from inside?
- Is the work covered by a warranty?
Do not buy on price alone
Thin bars, poor spacing, a weak paint finish and sloppy installation all fail in the same way: quietly, over a couple of years, until the day you actually need them.
Getting burglar bars fitted
See our burglar bars service for the details, or contact us for a free quotation.
