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Secured by Design (SBD) Windows and Doors: The Ultimate Security Guide for Hampshire Homes
Secured by Design (SBD) Windows and Doors: The Ultimate Security Guide for Hampshire Homes
Category: Technical Advice / Security
Reading Time: 6 Minutes
📌 Secured by Design: The Facts
- The Standard: The official UK Police initiative for designing out crime.
- The Proof: SBD products are independently tested to withstand prolonged physical attack.
- The Result: Proven to reduce burglary risk by up to 75% on new build developments (Source: Police CPI).
Home security is not just about alarms and cameras; it begins with the physical integrity of your doors and windows. For homeowners in Andover, Hampshire, and across the South of England, knowing that your glazing can withstand a determined attack offers invaluable peace of mind.
That peace of mind comes with the Secured by Design (SBD) accreditation. At KJM Group, we go beyond standard specifications, ensuring that our SBD windows and doors offer genuine, independently verified protection.
Table of Contents
1. What Does “Secured by Design” Mean?
The Secured by Design (SBD) External scheme is the official UK Police security initiative. Its purpose is to guide and encourage the building industry to adopt rigorous crime prevention measures that significantly reduce the risk of burglary.
In simple terms, SBD products are not just claimed to be secure; they have been independently tested to withstand physical attack by typical burglars using common tools like crowbars, screwdrivers, and sledgehammers.
2. The Security Pyramid: PAS 24 vs. Part Q vs. SBD
Security standards can be confusing. Here is how the different levels stack up, from the legal minimum to the “Platinum” standard.
Security Standards Explained
What is it?
The minimum technical test standard for enhanced security.
The Test
Resisting timed attacks on locks and hinges.
What is it?
The Legal Requirement (Building Regs) for new builds.
The Rule
All accessible new-build windows must meet PAS 24.
What is it?
The Gold Standard Police Preferred Specification.
The Extra
Requires PAS 24 PLUS specific extras like laminated glass.
3. The Anatomy of a Secure Window
What actually makes an SBD window harder to break into? It isn’t just one lock; it is a combination of features working together.
- Laminated Glass: Essential for SBD accreditation on accessible windows. It features a plastic interlayer (like a car windscreen) that holds the glass together even if shattered.
- Multi-Point Locking: Our windows utilize 8-point locking mechanisms that engage firmly into the frame to prevent leverage.
- Internal Beading: The glass is fitted from the inside, meaning the glazing beads cannot be removed from the outside to pop the glass out.
- Timberweld® Corners: Unlike screwed mechanical joints which can pull apart under extreme stress, our R9 windows feature Timberweld® corners that are fusion-welded for maximum structural integrity.
🛡️ The R9 Advantage: Timberweld® Strength
For the absolute highest level of structural integrity, we recommend the Residence 9 system.
Most Residence 9 windows now feature Timberweld® technology. This patented process fusion-welds the corners for incredible strength (unlike screwed mechanical joints) while maintaining the authentic “butt-joint” timber appearance.
Note: Glass bonding is also available as an optional specification for enhanced security and rigidity in larger sashes.
4. Is SBD Worth the Investment?
The question of whether to choose the fully Secured by Design specification often comes down to budget versus risk perception.
⚠️ The Cost Factor
Specifying a window to the full SBD standard usually involves an increase in cost, primarily due to the requirement for Laminated Glass. However, for ground-floor windows or easy-access basements, this investment could deter an attack entirely.
Our Expert Advice: While all modern KJM products offer excellent security, for customers seeking the absolute pinnacle of protection, we highly recommend upgrading to the full SBD specification on all accessible units.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
No. It is a voluntary standard. However, many new build developments are required to meet SBD standards as a condition of planning permission. For replacement windows, it is optional but highly recommended for peace of mind.
SBD accredits the product and the fabricator. However, the installation must be carried out correctly for the security features to work. That is why choosing a trusted installer like KJM Group is just as important as the window itself.
Not at all. SBD features like laminated glass and reinforced locks are hidden within the standard frame design. You get the same beautiful aesthetics (in uPVC, Aluminium, or Timber) with added invisible strength.
📚 Explore Our Security Hub
More guides to protect your home:
Mark Pearce is a highly experienced specialist in the double glazing industry, having built his knowledge from the ground up through hands-on experience in installation, manufacturing, sales, and business management. Beyond his role at KJM, Mark is a keen blogger, writer, and traveller, often sharing insights on the latest innovations in the home improvement industry.
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