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Window Security Bars Installation in 2026: DIY Guide vs. Hiring a Pro

Window Security Bars Installation in 2026: DIY Guide vs. Hiring a Pro

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Window Security Bars Installation in 2026: DIY Guide vs. Hiring a Pro | Security WB
Service & Support Guide

Window Security Bars Installation in 2026:
DIY Guide vs. Hiring a Pro

You've bought the bars. Now comes the hard part. Before you pick up that drill, learn what it really takes to secure your home without voiding your warranty or cracking your facade.

A security bar that is improperly installed is just a decoration. If a burglar can pry the entire frame off your wall because the screws were too short or the anchor sleeves failed, your investment is worthless.

When homeowners search for "Window security bars installation near me," they are often at a crossroads: "Do I save $500 and do it myself, or do I hire a professional installer?" In this 2026 guide, we break down the skills required, the hidden risks, and how to find a reputable local installer if you decide to outsource.

The Breakdown: DIY vs. Professional

🛠️ DIY Installation
👷 Pro Installation

Best for: Wood frames, handy homeowners, low-budget projects.

  • Cost: $0 (Labor) + Tools.
  • Time: 2-3 hours per window.
  • Risk: High (Improper anchoring, water damage).

Best for: Brick/Stucco/Concrete, second-story windows, high-security needs.

  • Cost: $100 - $200 per window.
  • Time: 30 mins per window.
  • Risk: Low (Insured & Guaranteed).

So You Want To Do It Yourself?

If you are committed to DIY, you need more than just enthusiasm. You need the right gear. Installing into wood siding is easy; installing into brick or concrete is where most people fail.

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The Required 2026 Toolkit

  • Hammer Drill: Essential for masonry. A standard drill will burn out.
  • Tamper-Proof Driver Bits: To drive the one-way security screws.
  • Bubble Level: Bars must be perfectly level to function (especially hinged ones).
  • Silicone Sealant: To waterproof the holes you drill into your home's skin.
  • Locate the Structure Never mount bars to the decorative trim (brick mold) or the vinyl window frame itself. You must find the structural studs or mount directly into the masonry surrounding the window.
  • Pre-Drill & Seal Drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting or brick cracking. Before inserting the screw, inject silicone into the hole to prevent moisture from rotting your studs over time.
  • The "Non-Reversible" Step Most security bars use "One-Way" screws (heads that allow tightening but not loosening). Warning: Only drive these in when you are 100% sure of the fit. You cannot unscrew them easily.

Finding a Pro: "Installation Near Me"

If the thought of drilling into your brick facade scares you (as it should), hiring a pro is the smart move. But who do you hire? A handyman? A locksmith? A fence contractor?

Who Actually Installs These?

  1. Ironworks Shops: The gold standard. They fabricate and install.
  2. Security Specialists: Companies that do alarms often have a physical security division.
  3. General Handymen: Hit or miss. Ensure they have masonry drilling experience.

2026 National Average Cost

$150 / window

(Labor only. Does not include the cost of the bars)

The Final Screw

Whether you wield the drill yourself or write a check to a pro, the goal is the same: a rock-solid installation that withstands thousands of pounds of force. Don't cut corners on the last mile of your security journey.

Need to find a certified installer in your area?

🔍 Find Certified Installers Near Me

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Last Updated: 01/01/25