RC2 anti-burglary windows

RC2 aluminum windows are an inexpensive and very practical solution in construction projects where it is necessary to protect buildings against burglary attempts by random intruders. Thanks to appropriately selected construction solutions - reinforced profiles, special fittings and laminated glass - they constitute an effective barrier for inexperienced burglars. Resistance in the RC2 class confirmed by tests according to the EN 1628, EN 1629 and EN 1630 standards is an absolutely basic level of anti-burglary protection and a practical guarantee that window structures will withstand attempts to force them by random burglars equipped with the simplest tools.

RC2 windows

from a design and construction perspective are a rational choice in the implementation of construction investments, where a standard-confirmed level of security is required while maintaining reasonable investment costs. In times of growing awareness of crime threats and in view of investors' expectations, burglar-proof window joinery is no longer an optional product and is becoming a design standard for modern buildings. Burglar-proof windows in the RC2 class according to the EN 1627: 2021-11 standard provide a basic level of building protection against burglary, effectively protecting it against accidental and inexperienced intruders.

RC2 windows – selection, standards and classification in the context of burglary protection. 

Modern construction projects require window joinery with confirmed burglary resistance in terms of physical security. RC2 windows are classified in the EN 1627:2021-11 standard, which defines six RC (Resistance Class) burglary resistance classes in the construction joinery sector – the higher the class, the higher the level of security and more effective protection against burglary attacks. Confirmed burglary resistance in the RC2 class means that the window structure withstands attempts to force it in by an attacker equipped with simple tools, such as a screwdriver, pliers or a wedge. In accordance with the EN 1627:2021-11 classification standard, windows meeting the RC2 class requirements provide effective resistance for at least 3 minutes of an effective burglary attack. Resistance time is an important security element, allowing the alarm to sound, intervention to take place and discouraging attackers from repeating break-in attempts.

RC2 window construction – elements responsible for burglary resistance.

Burglary resistance in RC2 class windows is the result of a well-thought-out design, a set of precisely selected elements: glass, fittings and window profiles. To obtain the RC2 class, it is necessary to properly design and manufacture each of its window components, every detail of its construction is crucial in the fight against burglary attempts.

RC2 windows

are distinguished by certain design solutions compared to standard window joinery, which significantly increase the level of protection against burglary, and at the same time do not radically increase production costs. Safe glazing, multi-point locking and solid aluminum profiles create an effective barrier for burglars and determine the resistance confirmed by the EN 1627:2021-11 standard.

RC2 window profiles.

The aluminum from which the burglary-proof window profiles are made is known for its high strength combined with relatively low weight and increased resistance to external conditions. Therefore, the aluminium profiles of the RC2 window frames and sashes provide the structures with the appropriate stiffness, making it difficult to bend or break them by force. The profiles of the glazing beads are also specially shaped to limit the possibility of breaking them and pushing out the glass.

The RC2 window fittings

effectively protect the sashes against being forced open through additional mushroom-shaped locking points. The fitting scheme with appropriately placed anti-burglary catches ensures that the contact between the sashes and the frame is secured around the entire perimeter.

The glazing in RC2 windows

is a safety glass of at least class P4A according to the PN-EN 356 standard. It is a laminated glass consisting of two glass panes glued together with four layers of PVB foil. Glass constructed in this way does not decompose even after repeated impact with a blunt tool and cracking and significantly impedes the window from being forced open.
Additional anti-burglary protection elements can be used in RC2 windows. Comprehensive protection will be improved by reed switches embedded in the door leaves and frames, connected to the alarm system.

RC2 windows - test methods confirming burglary resistance.

The burglary resistance of windows in the RC2 class is confirmed as compliant with the EN 1627:21-11 classification only through tests carried out by an accredited construction technology laboratory. Such tests are a series of complex tests defined in three research standards:
EN 1628:2021-11 - static test method,
EN 1629:2021-11 - dynamic test method,
EN 1630:2021-11 - manual test method.

The test of windows resistance to static loads in accordance with the EN 1628 standard

involves exerting pressure of 3 kN using a special pneumatic actuator. The pressure is exerted on the corners of the glazing and on the immobilization zones, i.e. the critical places of the RC2 window construction. This test simulates attempts at actual burglary by forcing the window open.

The test of window resistance to dynamic loads in accordance with the PN-EN 1629 standard

involves repeated impact with a special pendulum at selected points of the window. Three impacts are made in the middle of the window, and one at its corners. The test is to simulate attempts to force the window open by hitting it with a shoulder, kicking or ramming it with a heavy object.

The test of window resistance to manual burglary in accordance with the PN-EN 1630 standard

involves attempts to force it open using an appropriate set of tools. For the RC2 class, the set includes wedges, screwdrivers, pliers, and a small hammer, and the test is carried out by a specialist experienced in the field of security. The test is based on situations of actual burglary attempts using basic, easily accessible tools.

Application of RC2 windows and their selection in relation to the level of threat.

The RC2 class is used in the case of buildings where possible short-term, accidental attempts to force windows by individual burglars without specialist tools are expected. In design practice, RC2 windows are usually intended for single-family and terraced residential buildings, as well as in multi-family buildings in apartments on the first floors. They are also installed in small commercial buildings and in public utility buildings without 24-hour security. The use of RC2 windows in construction projects should be preceded by an analysis of the burglary threat, taking into account the architecture of the building, its location and purpose.

RC2 class windows

offer basic protection against burglary at a reasonable price, without the need to incur excessive investment costs. Their design solutions guarantee real defense against the actions of a burglar using simple tools. RC2 windows perfectly combine durability with aesthetics and are widely used in both residential and commercial construction.