Best way to secure windows from the inside without HOA approval?

My wife and I are trying to find a way to delay a burglar if they try to break through our windows or patio door. We live in an HOA community, so getting permission for anything exterior is a hassle, and we want to avoid drawing attention. We’re thinking of installing something on the inside of the windows instead.

My wife suggested security bars, while I’m looking into polycarbonate sheets (either a full sheet or a bunch of 3-inch stripes). I don’t care if the window glass breaks as long as we have something strong enough to slow down an intruder.

Security film is not an option since it needs a professional install to avoid gaps, and we want to keep things DIY. Any thoughts on the best option?

They make security film you can apply yourself on the inside and outside of the glass. No one would notice unless they really inspected it closely.

Phoenix said:
They make security film you can apply yourself on the inside and outside of the glass. No one would notice unless they really inspected it closely.

I’ve used that kind of film before, and it’s tough. You’d pretty much have to use a chainsaw to get through it once it’s applied. It also helps reduce sound and heat loss.

Phoenix said:
They make security film you can apply yourself on the inside and outside of the glass. No one would notice unless they really inspected it closely.

For maximum effectiveness, security film should be applied before the glass is framed, so it covers the edges of the pane. It’s doable as a DIY project, but it’s more work than just sticking film on the surface.

@Nye
There’s also an adhesive that works like caulk to bond the film to the frame, which might not be as effective but is better than nothing.

@Nye
That would be structural glazing silicone. It’s made for that purpose.

Has anyone mentioned putting thorny bushes in front of the windows? Obviously not for the patio door, but it’s a good deterrent.

One thing to keep in mind—make sure you don’t block your exits in case of a fire. It’s far more common than home invasions, so don’t create a situation where you can’t escape.

If you apply film on both sides of the glass, wouldn’t the whole window just pop out in one piece if someone tried to break in? I thought professionally installed film is supposed to go under the frame.

@Ben
They make both interior and exterior films. Either way, the film needs to be anchored to the frame with Dow 995 sealant for it to work properly.

Jody said:
@Ben
They make both interior and exterior films. Either way, the film needs to be anchored to the frame with Dow 995 sealant for it to work properly.

Thanks for explaining! I was wondering how they kept it from just coming out in one big piece.

Do you have screen doors? Security screens for windows and doors are usually HOA-compliant.

I’d recommend starting with security film on the inside and maybe even the outside too. I like your idea of using polycarbonate sheets on the inside—if you bolt them to the frame, they’d be pretty hard to notice, unlike bars.

Have you thought about getting a dog for added security?

Thanks for all the suggestions!

I like the idea of using polycarbonate sheets with Dow 995 sealant, but how difficult would it be to remove if we sell the house in a few years?

Sam said:
Thanks for all the suggestions!

I like the idea of using polycarbonate sheets with Dow 995 sealant, but how difficult would it be to remove if we sell the house in a few years?

It’s not easy to remove. The sealant is pretty much permanent. There are trim moldings available to make it look better in residential settings, though.

@Jody
Good to know, thanks!

You could also try window alarms, bars, or even privacy film, so you can see if anyone’s trying to get in while they can’t see you.

Are metal window decorations allowed in your HOA? Something that spans the window and is bolted into the frame could be a good option.