Doors and windows are an absolute essential when it comes to building a new home. When you invest in new doors or windows, you’re not just choosing how your home looks; you’re deciding how well it will protect you. That’s where PAS 24 certification comes in.
PAS 24 isn’t just another technical term; it’s a security benchmark that tells you your doors and windows have been tested to withstand real-world break-in attempts. Whether you’re a homeowner upgrading your property or a developer working on new builds, understanding what PAS 24 means can help you make smarter, safer choices.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
The Purpose of PAS 24
PAS 24 (Publicly Available Specification 24) is a British security standard developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI). It’s designed to make sure that doors and windows sold in the UK meet a consistent, measurable level of resistance to forced entry.
The idea is simple: create a level playing field where manufacturers can prove their products are strong, secure, and reliable; not just stylish.
For homeowners, PAS 24 certification means peace of mind. It assures you that your doors and windows have passed independent, rigorous testing that simulates real break-in attempts, not just theoretical lab conditions.
For builders and developers, it’s a way to comply with Building Regulations Part Q, which requires all new homes to meet certain minimum standards of security.
Testing Methods
Each test is designed to measure how long it would take, and how much effort it would require, for an intruder to break in. The longer and harder it is, the better.
Only products that pass every stage of testing are awarded PAS 24 certification.
Components Tested
PAS 24 testing covers every key entry point of a home, not just the main door or window. It applies to:
- Entrance doors (single or double leaf)
- Patio and French doors
- Sliding and bi-fold doors
- Casement and tilt & turn windows
- Composite and uPVC systems
Each component is tested as a complete unit, not just as individual parts. That means the frame, glazing, locks, hinges, and fixings must all perform together under attack.
Even if one part fails, say, a weak hinge or a flexible frame, the entire unit doesn’t pass. This ensures that certified products offer comprehensive protection, not just strong locks or tough glass in isolation.
Why It Matters
If you’re still unsure about PAS-certified products and how they may help you, here are some of the reasons:
1. Better Security – PAS 24-certified doors and windows are very good at keeping intruders out. They are made to withstand common tools and methods used by burglars to break in.
2. Insurance Benefits – Some insurance companies see PAS 24 as a sign of lower risk, which could mean lower premiums or faster claim approvals.
3. Building Regulation Compliance – If you’re building a new home or making major changes to an existing one, using PAS 24-certified products will make sure you meet Part Q security standards. This will help you avoid delays or expensive fixes.
4. Higher Property Value –Safety is important to buyers. People often think that homes with tested and certified products are safer, more modern, and better built.
In short, PAS 24 gives you comfort and assurance that your home or commercial building can withstand any security breaches.
Final Thoughts
The PAS 24 certification is the best way to make sure your home is safe in the UK. It makes sure that every door or window in your home can stand up to real threats, not just check boxes on paper. Choosing PAS 24-certified products is one of the best ways to keep your home, family, and mind at ease, whether you’re remodelling, replacing, or building a new home.
If you don’t know where to start, look for manufacturers and installers who proudly say that their products meet PAS 24 standards. At Bowalker, we provide doors and windows that are PAS 24 certified and meet or exceed the security standards.
We believe that when it comes to home security, proven performance is the most important thing. You can explore our wide range of PAS-certified doors and windows here.
