Designing Secure & Sustainable Spaces: The Role of Anti-Burglar Windows in Modern Aluminium Systems
A building is more than just a place to work or live; it’s a statement.
And in an increasingly aware world, that statement must account for sustainability as well as safety. Office blocks, mixed-use developments and other projects are striving to go greener and smarter. Glass facades, large apertures and progressive new designs are now the new norm.
But with such exciting creativity and ingenuity comes a greater and more pressing need for security. Thankfully, anti burglar windows are the perfect solution, combining cutting-edge technology with a consciousness for the environment.
Why Security and Sustainability Must Go Hand in Hand
Sustainable construction has revolutionised the way that we regard our buildings. Developers and architects must now manage carbon footprints, reasonable material usage and ensure that they are compliant with one of the many sustainable building certifications, such as BREEAM or LEED.
However, so much attention is given to energy that the issue of security is allowed to pass beneath the radar, specifically in mixed-use developments, commercial properties and retail facilities. Of course, in these facilities, security is fundamentally crucial. Aluminium construction is helping us to combine both: robust, economical use of design and saving the planet, all in one place.
Aluminium: A Smart Choice for Modern Building Envelopes
The sustainability, strength and lightweight properties of aluminium windows and doors can’t be beat. That strength-to-weight ratio makes them perfect for large fenestration. Interior reinforcements can easily be added, where they’re needed, anywhere in an aluminium frame.
Security-wise, aluminium fenestration systems can be engineered to accept reinforced glazing, multi-point locking and security locking shapes without sacrificing aesthetics.
Aluprof’s systems, for example, are aluminium windows and doors that are designed with an emphasis on modern appearance combined with unique security features. They understand the need for commercial clients to have a turnkey solution to integrate the building’s window system with the total building security package.
What Makes a Window “Anti Burglar”?
Burglar-proof windows are tested against attempts at forced entry. This means there are pressure tests, as well as impact simulations and testing to see how difficult it is to break a window to enter a space. They’re graded using certain standards like the RC Classification (Resistance Class), typically used in markets throughout Europe.
For a commercial business or high foot traffic building application, windows designated as RC2 or RC3 make the most sense in terms of balancing visible light and design concerns, yet also providing a force-resistant deterrent so an intruder can’t quickly break a window to enter a space. These factors together give a business owner and tenants a reason to welcome patrons and not worry about break-ins.
Case Example: Corporate Headquarters with a Green Vision
You’re thinking of an office building that sits in a dense urban centre — perhaps in a city like London or Berlin that’s aiming to reduce carbon emissions. The structure is a beacon of sustainability, fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows boasting BREEAM Excellent ratings. This design choice maximises sunlight exposure and thus employee productivity.
Unfortunately, maximum sunlight exposure can also make you a target. Enter Aluprof’s MB-104 Passive system. This system offers both passive-house level insulation and excellent security. Featuring laminated safety glass and intricate locking solutions, the system provides peace of mind while still optimising daylighting. This is sustainability you can feel secure about.
Energy Efficiency Meets Peace of Mind
Thermal insulation and burglary resistance often seem at odds. Add extra glazing to increase insulation, and you lose visibility or function. Improve a window’s steel core to make it harder to break and lose thermal value.
But, a new generation of aluminium systems employs thorough design to ensure that polyamide thermal breaks, triple glazing and multiple closed chambers can still achieve astounding thermal properties while meeting the RC2/RC3 security levels.
The result? A window that saves energy and C02 emissions and still stands as a powerful deterrent to home intruders.
Designing for the Future
Today’s buildings have to be beautiful, energy efficient and safe — no question. Anti-burglar windows are not just something to think about; they are indeed the future of building within a safe and sustainable environment, and who can help to find the right selection for all those things? Yes, aluminium. So, as the industry grows and changes, select a window system for both the people and the planet.
