Retrofit Security Bars on an Existing Window Frame: Process Guide

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Retrofitting security bars on an existing window frame means measuring the opening and the frame's condition carefully, then producing bars that fit that exact frame and anchoring them into the wall or frame. The process works well when the frame is sound and the bars are designed around its profile, anchoring points and how the window opens.

Check the Window Frame Before Anything Else

Before ordering security bars, look closely at the existing window frame. The frame has to carry the bars and hold them in place, so its condition matters as much as its size.

Look for rust, cracks, soft spots or loose corners in the frame.
Check the wall around the frame for crumbling plaster or damp.
Note the frame material, whether iron, aluminum or PVC, because it decides how the bars are fixed.
Confirm how the window opens, since the bars must not block the handle or the sash.

If the frame is weak, it should be repaired before the bars are installed.

On-Site Measurement

Accurate measurement is the foundation of a good retrofit. Our team measures on site rather than relying on estimates, because the actual opening is rarely a perfect rectangle and the frame may be slightly out of square.

The measurement records the outer and inner dimensions of the frame, the depth available for fixing, the position of anchor points and any obstacles such as shutters, handles or external lighting. Photos are taken from several angles so the drawing reflects real conditions.

Planning the Design and Specification

From the measurements we prepare a drawing and a written specification for your approval. This shows the bar layout, spacing, profile thickness, fixing method and finish. Spacing is planned so that the bars provide protection while still allowing the window to open and, where needed, leaving an emergency release path.

Standards such as the Israeli railing standard SI 1142 are taken into account in the design, and exact values are verified with the engineer. Please review the drawing carefully before approving it, since changes are far easier at this stage than after production.

Factory Production

Once you approve the drawing, the bars are cut, welded and assembled in our workshop at Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv. Working in the factory lets us control the tolerances and the quality of each joint, rather than fitting pieces together on a ladder outside your home.

Cutting and welding to the approved dimensions.
Assembly of the panels and checking them against the drawing.
Preparation of the surfaces for finishing.

Finishing for Durability

Security bars live outdoors, so the finish protects them from weather and time. Iron bars are typically hot-dip galvanized and then powder coated, which gives strong corrosion resistance. Aluminum bars can be finished in powder coating in the colour you choose.

Finishing is done after fabrication so the coating covers all surfaces, including welded joints that have been cleaned and prepared. Choose a colour that suits the building facade, and keep in mind that darker colours show dust and marks more easily.

Installation on the Existing Frame

On installation day, the bars are fixed to the existing frame or the surrounding wall using anchors suited to the material, after the anchor points are marked from the drawing. The fixings are chosen to suit the wall and frame type so the bars are firmly secured.

After installation we check that the bars are level and plumb, that the window opens and closes freely, and that the release arrangement works as planned. Ask us to walk through the operation with you before we leave.

Frequently asked questions

Can security bars be fitted to any window frame?

Most frames can take security bars, but the frame must be structurally sound and have enough depth and solid anchoring points. A site visit confirms whether the existing frame is suitable or needs repair first.

Do the bars stop the window from opening?

A good design leaves the window fully usable. The layout is planned around how the sash opens and the handle position, and where needed a release arrangement is included.

Why are bars made in the factory instead of on site?

Fabricating in the workshop gives better control of welds, dimensions and finish. It also means fewer adjustments on your property and a neater result.

How do I protect bars from rust over time?

Galvanizing and powder coating provide strong protection. Keep the finish clean and check it occasionally, especially at fixings and joints in damp or coastal areas.

Common mistakes to avoid

Choosing bars based on a rough guess instead of an on-site measurement, and fixing them into a weak or rusted frame, are the most common causes of problems. Both can be avoided by measuring carefully and checking the frame first.

Our recommendation

Have the frame inspected before ordering and ask for a drawing you can review. A correct drawing and a sound frame matter more than any other factor in a long-lasting retrofit.

Summary

Retrofitting security bars works best when the frame is checked, measured on site, designed to a clear drawing, produced in the factory, properly finished and carefully installed.

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