Your shopfront is a powerful tool for showcasing your business and drawing customers into your store. However, it can also attract thieves and criminals by displaying your valuable inventory. Protecting your shopfront and securing vulnerable points is essential to deter criminals and safeguard your goods. In this article, we'll explore methods to enhance your businesses security. At Glassfast, our team of expert commercial glaziers in Devon specialise in shopfront installations and glazing. With their extensive experience and knowledge, they are dedicated to helping you keep your business safe.
Bollards
Security bollards are a versatile solution for protecting your shopfront in multiple ways. They help prevent vehicle ram-raids (where criminals drive into shops to gain entry) by creating a physical barrier that stops vehicles from crashing into your building. Just having the presence of these bollards can be a visual deterrent, discouraging potential criminals from trying to break-in. Many businesses have invested in concrete or metal bollards to prevent smash-and-grab raids without blocking foot traffic, as they are securely installed in concrete and cannot be easily moved. Additionally, businesses can even customise designs that match their brand.
While bollards are good at stopping vehicle attacks, they don't prevent assaults from people using handheld weapons. It's important to make sure the installation area is owned by the business and to get any needed permissions from local authorities beforehand.
Roller Shutters
Steel or aluminium roller shutters are an excellent option for protecting your shopfront from attacks. These shutters can be deployed during non-business hours to prevent intruders from gaining access. Their solid construction makes it hard for anyone to break in, and their visibility can deter potential criminals. They also protect against extreme weather, helping to secure your shop from debris during storms and hurricanes.
While they are effective against break-ins and vandalisms, some stores hesitate to use them because they can block products and make the shop look less welcoming. However, security shutters can come in different materials, such as aluminium, steel and shatter-proof glass, so you can choose options that match your business's style. These barriers can be used manually or with an electric system, adding convenience to their protective benefits.
Planters
Planters provide a discreet way to protect shop fronts while addressing design challenges associated with security measures. Like traditional bollards, planters offer effective protection against vehicle attacks while adding greenery to the shopfront, benefiting both the business and the area. However, they do require regular maintenance, as the plants need consistent watering. Despite this, the advantages of incorporating nature into urban spaces often outweigh the time and cost involved in plant upkeep.
Security Glass
Investing in security glass is an effective way to enhance shopfront safety. This durable glass is tougher and more resilient than most other glazing options, making it nearly impossible to shatter and significantly reducing the risk of break-ins. Security glass features penetration-resistant films, ensuring that even if it cracks, intruders cannot gain entry. Additionally, the flexible plastic interlayer holds shattered glass in place.
However, security glass can be expensive and heavy, which might require replacing window frames that cannot support the added weight. A more affordable option is to retrofit existing glass with a security laminate, which toughens the glass and keeps shards intact if broken.
Despite these measures, it's important to note that installing security glass alone does not guarantee complete protection, after an attack, the glass will still need to be replaced. Therefore, combining security glass or laminate with other security measures, such as bollards, is essential for comprehensive storefront protection. To discuss security glazing options, get in touch with our glaziers in Devon today.
Talk to the experts
When deciding how to protect your shop front, it's always important to consult a security expert. They can help you find a solution that meets your design needs while also assessing your specific security requirements. Here at Glassfast, our commercial glaziers in Devon can help you with the installation and maintenance of security and safety glass. If you would like further information or assistance, please contact us today.
