Are basement windows the most common burglary entry point?

Ground-floor windows, including basement windows, account for 63% of window-based forced entries. Basement windows are often prioritized by burglars because they are below the sightline of neighbors, frequently lack secondary locks, and are often shielded by shrubbery.

Can standard telescopic window bars fit basement windows?

Most residential basement windows measure 24"–36" wide — squarely within the SWB Model A range (26"–42"). The key difference for basement windows is frame depth: you need at least 1.5" of frame depth on each side for bracket mounting. Measure frame depth before ordering.

Do window bars work on hopper-style basement windows?

Yes. Hopper windows (hinged at the bottom, opening inward) are the most common basement window type in the US. SWB bars mount to the vertical jambs and are compatible with hopper windows. The bar does not interfere with the window's opening mechanism.

Should basement window bars be interior or exterior mounted?

Interior mounting is preferred for basement windows. Exterior mounting in a below-grade window well can trap moisture and accelerate corrosion. Interior mounting also makes the bar more difficult to attack — a burglar in a below-grade window well cannot use leverage tools against an interior-mounted bar as effectively.

Do I need quick-release basement window bars?

Basement windows in sleeping areas (some "daylight" basement bedrooms) legally require quick-release bars. Basement windows in utility, storage, or mechanical rooms do not. Confirm with your local AHJ whether the basement space is classified as a sleeping area.

What about window well covers as an alternative to bars?

Window well covers prevent water and debris intrusion but provide minimal forced-entry resistance — they can be removed in seconds by a motivated intruder. For security, bars are the appropriate solution; window well covers serve a different function (waterproofing).

Are there any special concerns for below-grade window bar installation?

Humidity and condensation are the primary concerns for basement installation. Use stainless steel or zinc-coated mounting hardware rather than standard steel screws to prevent rust staining and corrosion. SWB bars include weather-resistant hardware suitable for basement environments.

How many bars do I need for a typical basement window?

Most basement windows are 12"–18" high — requiring one bar centered vertically. Basement windows taller than 18" benefit from two bars. Because basement windows are often close to the ground, bar placement at mid-height is standard.

Ground-Floor Security · 2026

Basement Window Security Bars

Direct answer: Ground-floor windows, including basements, account for 63% of window forced entries. Most basement windows (24"–36" wide) fit the SWB Model A. Interior mounting is preferred. Key differences from standard installation: frame depth check, moisture-resistant hardware, and confirming hopper compatibility.

Author
Marcus Reid · IDA Certified

Why Basement Windows Are the Vulnerability

63%

of window break-ins target ground-floor windows

Below sightline

Basement window activity not visible from street or neighboring homes

Shrub cover

Window well shrubbery provides concealment for 5+ minute forced entry attempts

Fewest locks

Basement windows are 3× more likely to have no secondary lock than upper-floor windows

Basement Window Installation Checklist

✓

Measure clear width

Inside jamb to jamb — most basement windows are 24"–36" → Model A

✓

Measure frame depth

Need minimum 1.5" on each side for bracket mounting

✓

Check window type

Hopper (opens inward): bar mounts to fixed frame, not the sash

✓

Choose interior mount

Preferred for below-grade — protects hardware from moisture

✓

Use corrosion-resistant hardware

Zinc or stainless screws — prevents rust staining on concrete

✓

Sleeping area check

If basement bedroom: requires quick-release Model A/EXIT

Recommended for Basement Windows

Non-sleeping rooms: SWB Model A ($99) — 26"–42" adjustable, 11-gauge steel

Basement bedrooms: SWB Model A/EXIT ($129) — quick-release egress, IBC compliant

Basement Window Security Bars: Why Ground-Floor Windows Are the #1 Burglar Entry Point

Basement Window Security Bars

Why Basement Windows Are the Vulnerability

Basement Window Installation Checklist

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