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Burglar Bars for Windows:2026 Buyer’s Guide & CostAnalysis

Burglar Bars for Windows: 2026 Buyer's Guide & Cost Analysis | Security WB

2026 Buying Guide

Burglar Bars for Windows:
Buyer's Guide & Cost Analysis

Are you overpaying for installation? Should you choose steel or aluminum? We crunch the numbers so you can protect your wallet while protecting your home.

When you type "burglar bars for windows" into a search engine, you are usually hit with two extremes: cheap, flimsy DIY kits from big-box stores or incredibly expensive custom ironwork quotes. Finding the middle ground—high-security protection at a reasonable price—is the challenge for most homeowners in 2026.

In this guide, Security WB breaks down the real costs of securing your windows, the pros and cons of materials, and the critical factors you must check before clicking "Buy."

💰 The Real Cost of Burglar Bars (2026 Market Data)

Prices have stabilized in 2026 after the fluctuation of steel prices. Below is the average cost per window based on national U.S. averages.

Type of Bar	Material Quality	Price Range (Per Window)*
DIY Adjustable Kits	Tubular Steel (Light Duty)	$40 - $90
Fixed Security Bars	Solid Steel / Iron	$120 - $250
Hinged (Egress) Bars	Mandatory for Bedrooms	$200 - $450
Custom Forged Iron	Decorative / Architectural	$500 - $1,200+

*Prices exclude installation labor, which typically adds $100-$200 per window if hiring a pro.

Material Showdown: Steel vs. Aluminum

You will encounter two main materials. Here is how to decide.

Solid Steel

The traditional choice. Heavy, magnetic, and incredibly tough.

✅ Pro: Maximum tensile strength. Difficult to cut without power tools.

❌ Con: Prone to rust if the powder coating is scratched. Heavy to install.

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

The modern contender. Lightweight and naturally rust-resistant.

✅ Pro: Will never rust (ideal for coastal areas). Lighter shipping/handling.

❌ Con: More expensive per pound. Slightly easier to cut than solid steel (though still very difficult).

🛠️ DIY Installation: Can You Do It?

Installing burglar bars for windows is a popular weekend project. However, it requires more than just a screwdriver. If you mess this up, you create a false sense of security.

The "Pull Test" Reality

A burglar won't gently tug on the bars; they will attach a chain to a truck or use a crowbar with your wall as leverage. Your bars are only as strong as the substrate you attach them to.

DIY Pre-Flight Checklist:

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One-Way Screws: Do NOT use standard Phillips head screws. Use tamper-proof screws (included with most good kits) or a "security driver" bit.

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Stud Finding: You must anchor into the structural stud (wood) or use masonry anchors (brick/concrete). Screwing into the vinyl window frame or trim is useless.

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Spacing: Ensure the bars are spaced no more than 4 inches apart to comply with safety codes and prevent small tools (or small people) from squeezing through.

Final Verdict: What Should You Buy?

If you are on a budget, adjustable tubular steel bars are a great entry-level deterrent. However, for ground-floor bedrooms, you must invest in hinged egress bars—do not cut costs on fire safety.

Ready to see the top-rated models for 2026?

🛒 Shop Top-Rated Window Bars