Safety and Security - Tip #5

Having lived at your home for some time, you may have already identified a means of adding security to your sliding windows and doors; however, consider the following:

Put heavy duty PVC pipe dowels in all your sliding windows and doors. PVC pipe is low cost, white - to match your windows and sliding doors, easy to cut and you can easily just sand the markings off unless you just turn the markings to the bottom.

PVC pipe (450 psi) is heavy duty, thick and solid. For most windows, a 3/4 inch pipe will do the job. For sliding glass doors, the 1 inch circumference pipe is better. A standard section of PVC pipe measures 10 feet and is available in the plumbing section of your favorite hardware store is generally under $5.00 (You might also find small lengths). Either of the two big name stores locally may cut it for free to allow you to get it into your vehicle or you can bring along a hacksaw and do it yourself. If you do make a cut, have it cut or pay to have several cuts done... be prepared and have the measurements available - 3/4 inch pipe measures 1 inch outside diameter and 1 inch pipe measures 1 1/4 inch outside diameter, which would be the size of wood dowels for the same job. “Measure twice – cut once”. Upon returning home with the pipe and newly acquired sandpaper, you can have this little chore done in no time at all.

Imagine the great night sleep after that or better a more comfortable shopping expedition the next time you go out.

Keep the faith!