Windows are a vital point of vulnerability for homes and businesses. Protecting them with the right technology is the first step to a sound security strategy.
Fortunately, several varieties of window sensors are available that make installation and monitoring relatively simple without compromising functionality. In addition to deterring intruders, window sensors can provide around-the-clock detection and the information your system needs to send real-time alerts.
Each type of window sensor comes with its advantages and disadvantages, so making the right choice is vital for your long-term protection. In this article, we’ll review the best uses of three common types.
3 Common Types of Window Sensors
1. Magnetic Contact Sensors
Magnetic contact sensors are a staple of window security, often found in suburban homes and other locations with openable windows. These devices come with two magnetic components — one attached to the window frame, and the other to the window itself. When the window is closed, the pieces stay in contact, completing an electrical circuit. If the window is opened without disarming the device, the circuit breaks and triggers the alarm.
Advantages
- Simple and effective design
- Can protect doors as well as windows
- Relatively cost-effective
Best Applications
Magnetic contact sensors are best for windows that are meant to remain closed — especially those at higher risk of forced entry, like ground-floor or basement windows. They’re great for both commercial and residential locations, though their applications are limited in spaces where windows are more likely to be broken than opened.
2. Acoustic Glass Break Sensors
Acoustic glass break sensors are attuned to detect the distinct sound frequency of breaking glass. Through passive monitoring of sound waves within a specific radius, they can help to protect multiple windows at once. If glass is broken anywhere within the radius, the alarm sounds.
Advantages
- Can protect multiple windows at once
- Ideal for open spaces with large glass surfaces, like storefronts
- Minimally invasive installation — no direct application to glass
Best Applications
Acoustic glass break sensors are an excellent choice for commercial spaces with lots of glass surface area, though they’re often found in homes with several windows in close proximity. Broader coverage means they can protect an entire room without affixing equipment to a single window. However, their acoustic nature makes them more prone to false alarms due to clinking porcelain plates or dropped glassware.
3. Vibration Glass Break Sensors
A cousin to acoustic sensors, vibration-based glass break sensors are designed to detect the shock produced when glass is struck or shattered. Unlike acoustic sensors, they’re attached directly to the glass and typically protect only one surface at a time. Still, these devices can often detect an issue before the glass is broken and may be less prone to false alarms.
Advantages
- Precise point-of-impact detection
- Less prone to false glass-break alarms
- More effective for isolated windows with dampened sound
Best Applications
Vibration sensors are especially effective for areas where a single, vulnerable window is isolated from the rest. Even in a room where sound is dampened or obstructed, these devices are still effective for detecting impact. This makes them ideal for residential basements and commercial storage rooms.
Choosing the Right Window Sensors for Your Needs
Choosing the right window sensors for your location will depend on factors like property type, window placement, and level of risk — in many cases, a combination of devices may be necessary. Keep these guidelines in mind as you weigh the options:
For basic home security, magnetic contact sensors are ideal for their simplicity and effectiveness. If you have lots of windows on the ground floor and don’t tend to open them very often, these may be the best choice for you.
For wide spaces with multiple windows, such as storefronts, acoustic glass break sensors are the most practical solution. Their ability to cover several windows at once makes them versatile and cost-effective.
For high-risk or isolated windows, vibration sensors can provide more targeted detection capabilities. For locations under constant threat of security breaches, these devices will likely provide more reliable protection with fewer false alarms.
Install and Monitor With PEAK Alarm
Here at PEAK Alarm, we understand that security is rarely one size fits all. Proper window safety means taking a customized approach to your security — and we have just the team for the job. PEAK Alarm has been outfitting windows across the Mountain West with world-class security technology for decades. With professional installation and around-the-clock monitoring, you can rest assured that your windows are in the safest hands.
Protect what matters most to you. Contact PEAK Alarm today.
