Comparing Crimsafe® to Traditional Security Bars
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For decades, homeowners have relied on traditional security bars to keep intruders out — but that protection came at a price. From a “caged-in” look that lowers curb appeal to potential safety risks during emergencies, bars are far from an ideal solution. Today, Florida homeowners have a smarter choice: Crimsafe® security screens.
Built with patented technology and hurricane-rated materials, Crimsafe® provides the same or better strength than bars while preserving the beauty, ventilation, and value of your home. If you’re weighing old-school bars against next-generation security screens, this side-by-side comparison explains why more Floridians are making the switch.
Appearance and Property Value Impact
Traditional Bars: Protection at the Expense of Curb Appeal
Traditional steel bars may keep unwanted visitors out, but they do so with a heavy visual price. These bars are bulky, obvious, and often make homes look institutional or unsafe, creating the impression of a high-crime area. Many HOAs in Florida outright ban security bars for this reason, citing aesthetic concerns.
They can also hurt resale value. Buyers may see bars as a sign of danger in the neighborhood, or they may be put off by the work needed to remove them. For many homes, bars essentially “lock in” the look of a fortress — and lock out style.
Crimsafe® Screens: Strength Without the Cage
Crimsafe® is designed with sleek, low-profile frames and nearly invisible stainless-steel mesh, which means you get round-the-clock security without the harsh, caged-in look of bars. The screens can be powder-coated in white, bronze, black, beige, or custom colors to complement trim, siding, or architectural features.
From modern beach houses in Clearwater to historic homes in St. Augustine, Crimsafe® integrates seamlessly into any design. Instead of lowering value, it can actually increase perceived value, because buyers see a home that’s both secure and beautifully maintained.
Design Advantage: Crimsafe® protects without visually “caging in” your home.
Strength, Flexibility, and Maintenance
Why Crimsafe® Wins the Durability Test
Traditional bars are made of steel or wrought iron, but they’re rigid. Over time, welds can crack, rust sets in, and salty Florida air speeds up corrosion. Bars must be painted or treated regularly, and neglected bars can become unsightly and structurally weak.
Crimsafe® takes a different approach. Its Tensile-Tuff® stainless-steel mesh is flexible enough to absorb impacts, meaning it bends slightly under force instead of snapping or cracking. The mesh is 26% thicker than standard security mesh and is mounted into frames using Crimsafe’s patented Screw-Clamp™ system, creating a single, unified barrier that won’t “pop out” under attack.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wash with soap and water keeps Crimsafe® screens looking new for years, even in coastal towns like Tampa Bay, Clearwater, or Naples.
Emergency Exit Functionality
Bars Can Trap Occupants in an Emergency
One of the biggest downsides of security bars is what happens when you need to get out — fast. Most bars are fixed in place, and while some models include a manual release, these can be hard to find or operate in the dark, or even painted shut over time.
In a fire, earthquake, or medical emergency, these delays can mean the difference between safe escape and tragedy.
Crimsafe® Quick Escape Windows
Crimsafe® was designed with safety codes in mind. Special Crimsafe® “Safe-S-Capes®” units are built with quick-release latches that allow homeowners to exit without keys, tools, or struggling.
Benefits include:
- Code-compliant egress for bedrooms and second-floor windows
- Fast, intuitive release from the inside
- Maintains security from the outside while keeping you safe inside
With Crimsafe®, you get the strength of a barrier — but not at the cost of your family’s safety.
Why More Florida Homeowners Are Making the Switch
Traditional security bars may still be used for industrial settings or older commercial properties, but for homes, they’re outdated, visually harsh, and often unsafe in emergencies.
Crimsafe® offers a better way:
- Protection that’s always active — no need to deploy shutters or board up windows
- Sleek design that blends with your home’s style
- Low maintenance and rust resistance, even in humid, coastal climates
- Hurricane-rated strength that keeps out storm debris and burglars
Instead of trading beauty for safety, you can have both — and increase the value of your home in the process.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Crimsafe® different from traditional security bars?
Crimsafe® screens combine high-tensile stainless steel mesh with a patented Screw-Clamp™ system, creating a barrier that’s just as strong — or stronger — than bars, but without the harsh, “caged-in” look.
Are Crimsafe® screens hurricane-rated for Florida homes?
Yes. Crimsafe® screens are Florida Building Code compliant and impact-tested to withstand debris and hurricane-force winds, offering year-round storm protection.
Do security bars reduce home value?
Often they do. Traditional bars can make a property look unsafe or institutional, which can deter buyers. Crimsafe® screens protect without lowering curb appeal, and can even increase perceived value.
Can you get out through Crimsafe® screens in an emergency?
Yes. Crimsafe® offers Safe-S-Cape® units with a quick-release latch so you can exit fast during a fire or other emergency — no keys or tools required.
Contact us
Florida homeowners no longer have to choose between living behind bars or leaving their windows vulnerable. Crimsafe® delivers the highest level of security with the design flexibility your home deserves.
👉 Upgrade to Crimsafe® for Safer, Sleeker Protection
Contact RollShield today to request your consultation and quote. Our team will measure your openings, walk you through colors and designs, and help you upgrade from outdated bars to the most advanced security screens on the market.
📞 Call us at (727) 451‑7655 | 🌐 Visit RollShield.com
Related links
- Crimsafe Security Screens for Windows
- Crimsafe Security Screen Doors
- Protecting Your Home with Crimsafe® Security Screens