Opinions On Alarm Install Please

davidchomes

Hello.

Home owner wants to have double hung windows opened fully without the additional cost of alarm screen. So what if only the lower sash was protected with a magnetic switch and only the top sash was opened? I would think that it would be unlikely that the intruder would climb and enter only at the top of the window instead of opening the lower sash. However I realize that it is possible. They do not like the idea of the two switches at two locations so that the lower sash could be partially opened and still be armed due to the fact of not being open enough. Any opinions or suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thanks

GregS

Are they also opposed to a motion and a glass break in the room?

Not sure I understand the problem with a switch at the top and a switch at the bottom.

I don't install alarms, but I do follow the technology since I still have to pull all the wire for it.

GSE

I would not install the protection unless it met UL standards, too much liability at stake, what is the heigth of the window, from the ground? PIR's will not take the place of window protection, all this should be worked out before any contract is signed, if the customer does not want good protection, let him get one of the front door, back door hackers, to do the installation.

davidchomes

Did that explain it any better?

davidchomes

Even though this is the homeowner from hell there would be no liability just a lifelong warranty. The home owner is my Mom She actually is very easy to please. The windows are on average 4 ft from grade, single story. It's not a matter of her wanting good protection, but a matter of compromize. She realizes the risk of doing so. The only other option would be to use double magnets and one switch( or use the long magnets) and partialy vent the window.


Anyone know how a single or double hung vinyl window is usually entered? Are the standard latches able to be forced open or do the intruders normally just break the glass? Assuming they don't kick in the door.

GregS

How about a pair of wireless recessed contacts in the middle?

To clarify, the whole point of putting contacts on the window is to know if it is open(ed) or not. Putting the contacts in the middle would trigger if the top was opened or the bottom was opened. Using recessed ones will hide them. Wireless will make it even easier to install.

If she really wants to leave the window open she can void the zone on the keypad before arming, but that brings about the risk you mentioned. Or, just use two sets of recessed contacts.

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Rugger

For my $0.02 I would recommend wired screens. They don't cost that much more than conventional window protection. They are a very effective way to protect windows. We are in an area where A/C is seldom needed if windows can be left opened. So screens make a lot of sense here. To reduce the cost, she could decide which windows would be left opened and only wire those screens. As far as recessed contacts on windows, be very careful about manuf. warranties. The Rf recessed contacts that I am familiar with are to big to install in windows. We do use surface contacts between the 2 panes and a 2nd magnet to provide security with the window partially opened. I say go for the screens, she will be glad she did.

Rugger

GregS

Exactly. This is why I don't wire windows and recommend the glass breaks and motions. I won't be responsible for the window not functioning.

Never heard of the screens before. That's pretty cool.

GSE

A large number of entries they remove the entire window frame, and let the contact wires hand intact, mo alarm triggered, most of these guys have attended the local best trainning, at the county, and state lockups, where they exchange information on best methods of entry. IMO, The screen, with a level contact, would be the best protection.

Also consider floor mats, and stair mats, along with interior door traps, just in case they dicide to avoid the window and door openings and cut their way thru the and exterior wall, more common with the access to battery tools.

davidchomes

Rugger, thanks for your input. I would like to go the screen route if I could find them reasonably priced. Do you have a source that you wouldn't mind sharing?

Also, how do you hardwire the screen without drilling thru the vinyl window frame? Or do you go wireless?

Thanks for your help.

Dave

Rugger

Davidc, if you are a builder, I would call your alarm/LV guy. My source doesn't sell except to contractors. (one reason why I use him.) As far as drilling the windows, I'm not sure about that one. With dbl hung windows your screens are on the exterior. Correct? That would mean the connection would have to be between the window and the screen. We usually drill and make our connection at the top of the window to reduce the exposure to weather. Be sure to consider wind driven rain/snow. I actually don,t remember ever installing screens on vinyl windows, only wood. I hope this helps.
Rugger

mdshunk

That happened to a buddy of mine about 3 years ago. I don't think they even needed tools. Peeled off a bit of vinyl siding, poked through the Celotex, and kicked in the drywall. Came right into the master bedroom, where all the goodies were. The worst part is that they urinated on his bed.

davidchomes

Thanks guys for the suggestions.

davidchomes

OH man, talk about rubbing salt in the wound! I assume they never caught the low-life? That would be frustrating not being able to do anything to the individual who did that.