How Much Does it Cost to Install Window Security Bars & Gates?
Typical Range:
$510 - $1,420
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 225 HomeAdvisor members. Embed this data
How We Get This Data
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- Homeowners use HomeAdvisor to find pros for home projects.
- When their projects are done, they fill out a short cost survey.
- We compile the data and report costs back to you.
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Updated April 17, 2024
Written by HomeAdvisor.Highlights
Professional installation ensures burglar bars comply with local codes and are properly placed for safety and effectiveness.
The average cost to install bars on windows is $150 per window, excluding materials.
The cost of burglar bars is influenced by the type and material of bars, custom-made or decorative designs, and their installation.
Popular materials for burglar bars include steel, aluminum, and wrought iron.
Security bars provide benefits like resistance to rust and corrosion, difficulty to break, aesthetic appeal, and enhanced safety.
Highlights were summarized from this existing cost guide text using automation technology and were thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The average cost to install window security bars is $959. Most homeowners pay between $510 and $1,420. The exact amount depends on three key factors: the size of your window, the number of technicians needed, and the type of security bars you select. Aluminum security bars are the most popular choice, with pricing around $90 for a set without installation.
One of the most effective means of deterring burglars is to install security bars on windows in your home. They may also lead to lower home insurance premiums as your home becomes less at risk for a burglary.
It's important that one correctly installs the right type of bars for them to be effective. Hire a professional installer to meet safety and security needs.
Security Bars Installation Cost Calculator
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| National Average | $959 |
| Typical Range | $510 - $1,420 |
| Low End - High End | $200 - $2,500 |
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 225 HomeAdvisor members.
Burglar Bars Price by Type
Burglar bars cost between $90 and $1,000. Pricing varies according to the size of your window and the material used to manufacture the bars. Steel or aluminum make up most window bars, though heavier ones made of wrought iron are available. Custom-made and decorative designs tend to be costlier. Below is a look at the price range of the most popular types.
| Material | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Aluminum & Steel | $90 - $500 |
| Wrought iron | $100 - $1,000 |
| Transparent | $150-$700 |
| Decorative | $100 - $1,000 |
Aluminum and Steel Metal Window Security Bars
Starting at $90 per window, steel and aluminum window security bars account for the majority of those sold. They are available in expandable styles and with a white powder-coated finish to compliment lighter-colored homes.
Wrought Iron Window Bars
Wrought iron window bars range in price from $100 for a 27-by-13-inch window to over $1,000 for a customized job. These prices do not include installation.
Wrought iron bars are strong and easy to customize, making them a favorite among buyers. They are also easy to find. Buyers can choose from several designs.
Transparent Burglar Bars
Transparent burglar bars start at $150 for a small window. They are more expensive than your traditional steel or aluminum bars. They use the same material found in riot shields, helmet visors, airplane windows, and more. These are newer on the market and may not be available everywhere.
Transparent bars have limited availability in the United States because most manufacturers are located overseas. This can contribute to elevated product costs. They offer the following benefits:
Resistant to rust and corrosion
Difficult to break without special tools
Easy to clean
Bullet-proof strength
Decorative Security Bars for Residential Windows
Decorative security bars for small windows start at just over $100 per window. Models with a quick-release feature and custom finishes can cost over $1,000 for larger windows.
Most decorative bars are wrought iron, steel, or aluminum. While they are more expensive than standard styles, they offer the following benefits:
Available in a variety of colors
Options include scrolls, flowers, and custom designs
They can add to the aesthetic appeal of a home
Interior vs. Exterior Bars
There’s no significant difference in price between interior and exterior burglar bars. Most mount to the outside of a home or building. Interior security bars make break-ins a bit more challenging for burglars because they mount on the inside of a window. Burglars must first break the window before facing the security bars.
Bars for Windows that Open
Security bars for windows that open cost $220 and up. They are available in aluminum, steel, and wrought iron styles. They are also known as "swing-open" or "swing-away" security bars. They got this nickname because they have hinges that allow the bars to open for an easy exit. Many people like them because they promote safety and make window cleaning easier.
Get a Detailed Quote from Security Bar Installers Near You
Installing Bars on Windows Cost
The average cost to install bars on most windows is $150 per window, not including materials. Picture windows and other oversize windows will average $300 per window. This price increase is due to the need for multiple pros to lift and install the bars.
Fire Escape Window Gates Prices
Fire escape window gates cost between $300 and $450, including installation. Before buying, make sure it adheres to the proper safety regulations set by your local fire department.
Cost to Remove Burglar Bars
A skilled handyperson can remove bars from one small window for $65 to $75. The cost to remove them will depend on the number of windows and their size. In general, removal is less expensive because it takes less time. There is no need to spend time measuring, drilling pilot holes, or anchoring screws.
Replacing Broken Gates
The cost to replace a broken security gate is $275 to $425. This price includes removal, repairs, and touch-ups.
Find the Best Installation Quote from Top Security Pros.
Placement of Window Security Bars
The placement of your security bars will affect purchase price and installation costs. Some of the most popular places to add window security bars are as follows:
Basement Window Security Bars
The cost of basement window security bars is lower than average, ranging from $100 to $200, including installation. This is because they tend to be smaller.
Egress window installation costs between $100 and $700 per window. Basement windows and egress windows, found in basements with living spaces, are the most popular locations to place security bars. Egress windows allow people to exit the space if a fire or other emergency arises. Their location makes them the most popular entry points for burglars.
Ground Floor Homes or Apartments
Security bars for picture windows and doors can cost over $200. Their size makes them more expensive than those for egress windows. Next to basement windows, ground-floor windows, and doors are the next most popular location for security bars. Burglars can hide behind bushes or trees as they try to gain entry through a ground-floor window or door.
Bars for a Child's Room
Kid-friendly child safety bars are growing in popularity among safety-conscious parents. Security bars for a child's room do more than provide added protection from burglars. They can help prevent a small child from falling out of a window. Just make sure to establish a means of entry in case a fire blocks the main door or exit.
Bedrooms with Fire Escapes in an Apartment or Condo
The crime rate tends to be higher in urban areas where apartments and condos are located. Bedroom fire escapes are another popular point of entry for criminals, highlighting the need for security bars.
DIY Window Security Bars vs. Hiring a Pro to Build & Install
Security bar installation requires skill and accuracy. Proper placement is integral to safety and effectiveness. Also, a professional can make sure they comply with local housing codes. If you make a mistake when adding them, people inside the home may be unable to escape if there is a fire or other safety threat.
For these reasons, installation by a trained window professional is the best way to ensure that your bars are effective. If you decide to do it yourself, make sure you have the proper training.
Find the Best Security Bar Installers Near You.
FAQs
What type of window is most secure?
A casement window style is the most secure type of window because there's no place from the outside of the window for intruders to access. It costs an average of $570 to install one casement window. If you don’t like the appearance of security bars, you can consider installing a casement-style window in areas most prone to break-ins, like the first story or a basement.
With that, most modern-day window styles will include common safety features like locks. You can also choose to upgrade your window glass to be impact-resistant. This glass type is common in hurricane shutters. While no glass is unbreakable, impact-resistant windows will only crack (instead of shattering out of the frame), making it harder for someone to enter your home.
Do window bars increase home value?
Security bars, much like any other security measure, can increase your home value, but only slightly. Some consumers find window security bars unappealing on a home’s exterior. While the security bars themselves will not negatively impact your home’s value, living in an area with high break-ins and robberies will result in lower real estate prices.
Do cheap burglar bars still work?
Cheap burglar bars made of easy-to-rust metals pose a serious safety threat to consumers. They may have inferior locks that fail to prevent break-ins. While the price tag may look attractive, buyers should be careful when deciding solely on price. While you may save in the short term, you may have to replace the bars more frequently than a higher-quality material.
How much are Home Depot security bar prices?
The average price of security bars at Home Depot is just over $150. This is higher than the starting price of $90. Even with free delivery, buyers may be able to obtain better prices through a professional.
How much does it cost to install a security door or door gate?
The average cost of a security door is $1,400. This price includes the cost of materials plus installation. Homeowners can save money by choosing a security screen door. This less costly option runs between $100 and $1,500 plus approximately $350 for labor.
Installing security doors or gates differs from adding regular doors. This is because they are installed outside the doorjamb to prevent burglars from kicking their way into your home.
How safe are transparent burglar bars?
Transparent burglar bars are a popular option if you want the security of traditional window bars but don’t like the aesthetics. Transparent burglar bars are made from high-density polycarbonate. Depending on the manufacturer, some claim to be tougher than metal bars as they are difficult to break or bend without special tools. They’re also not prone to rust like traditional metal bars, which weaken their security. Check with your local installer or manufacturer to see what kind of warranties they offer, which will be a good indicator of their safety.
