Burglar resistance classifications, as outlined in the European Standard EN 1627, define the security levels of windows and doors based on their ability to withstand forced entry. These classifications range from RC1, offering basic protection, to RC6, designed for maximum security against advanced tools. By understanding these ratings, property owners can select suitable solutions tailored to their security needs, whether for residential, commercial, or high-security facilities. Proper installation and complementary measures further enhance their effectiveness.
Burglar Resistance Classifications Explained
Ensuring the security of your home or business starts with selecting the right windows and doors. Based on the European Standard EN 1627, Burglar resistance classifications provide a clear guide to the protection levels these components offer. Below, we explain the classifications and their practical applications.
What is Burglar Resistance?
Burglar resistance refers to the ability of windows and doors to withstand attempts at forced entry. The EN 1627 standard defines six Resistance Classes (RC), each indicating the time and type of tools required for a burglar to break through. These classifications range from basic deterrents to high-security solutions.
Resistance Classes Overview
RC1: Basic Protection
RC1-rated components offer minimal resistance to physical force such as kicking or shoulder pressure. They’re designed to deter casual, opportunistic burglars. These products are suitable for low-risk areas where a basic level of security suffices.
RC2: Improved Security
RC2-rated windows and doors can resist forced entry using simple tools, such as screwdrivers or pliers, for at least 3 minutes. This level is ideal for residential properties and balances affordability and security.
RC3: Moderate Resistance
RC3 components are designed to withstand attacks using heavier tools, like crowbars, for up to 5 minutes. This classification is recommended for urban homes or commercial buildings where the risk of burglary is moderate.
RC4: High Security
RC4-rated products resist break-ins using advanced tools such as hammers, axes, or cordless drills for a minimum of 10 minutes. They’re suitable for high-value properties and areas with increased security concerns.
RC5: Advanced Protection
RC5-rated windows and doors can withstand attacks using power tools such as electric drills or grinders for at least 15 minutes. These are ideal for facilities storing sensitive or expensive assets, such as laboratories or jewelry stores.
RC6: Maximum Resistance
RC6 components provide the highest level of burglar resistance, capable of withstanding attacks with powerful tools for up to 20 minutes. They are typically used in high-security installations like banks or government facilities.
FILLINGS
Fillings other than glazing, tested by EN 1628, EN 1629 and EN 1630, should not fail to meet the requirements corresponding to the declared class of burglary resistance. In PN-EN 1627 there are requirements concerning the level of protection which characterizes glazing.
If several glass panes are used in a product, including windows or doors, e.g. insulating glass, then at least one of the glass panes should meet the requirements for a given class of burglary resistance, as listed in Table 1. Classes of resistance of glazing are determined based on the provisions of standard EN 356 “Glass in building. Protective glazing. Testing and classification of resistance to manual attack”.
When using glazing with resistance classes lower than PA4, it may be required to use hardware that requires a removable key to unlock.
As an explanation of the entries in the table, there is a difference between, for instance, a window with burglar resistance class RC 2 N and a window with class RC 2. This difference results from the type of glass used for glazing. In a window, which after tests obtained the intrusion resistance class RC 2, a pane of glass with glazing resistance class PA4 was installed, while for windows in the RC 2 N class, the standard does not set any requirements in this respect. Any glass pane may be installed in it, e.g. with glazing resistance class PA2, as well as regular double-glazed glass.
Practical Considerations
- Assess Your Needs: Evaluate the level of risk in your area and the value of what you’re protecting. Residential properties often require RC2 or RC3, while commercial spaces may benefit from RC4 or higher.
- Combine with Other Measures: Burglar-resistant windows and doors work best when complemented by alarms, surveillance systems, and secure locks.
- Professional Installation: Proper installation is crucial to ensure the performance of burglar-resistant components.
Conclusion
Understanding the burglar resistance classifications helps you make informed decisions to safeguard your property. From basic deterrents to advanced protection, these standards provide a framework to choose the right solution for your needs. Always consult with security experts to ensure the best fit for your requirements.
❓ FAQ – Burglar-Resistance Classification (RC Classes)
1. What exactly is a “burglar-resistance classification”?
It’s a rating system from European Standard EN 1627 that tells you how long – and against which tools – a window or door can fend off a break-in. The scale runs from RC1 (basic deterrent) to RC6 (bank-vault territory). (aimwin.eu, euroindustry.net)
2. How do the six RC classes differ?
| Class | Typical Tools Simulated | Minimum Resistance Time | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|
| RC1 | Kicks, shoulder hits | 0–1 min | Low-risk areas |
| RC2 | Screwdrivers, pliers | ≥ 3 min | Most homes |
| RC3 | Crowbars, big screwdrivers | ≥ 5 min | Urban homes, small businesses |
| RC4 | Hammers, axes, cordless drills | ≥ 10 min | High-value sites |
| RC5 | Heavy power tools (drills, grinders) | ≥ 15 min | Labs, jewellers |
| RC6 | Powerful electric & hydraulic kit | ≥ 20 min | Banks, government facilities |
(aimwin.eu, silatec-bulletproofglass.com, protecindustrialdoors.com)
3. Which class is usually enough for a standard residence?
Security pros – and even German police guidelines – say RC2 is the sweet spot for typical family houses, while RC3 is smart in high-crime urban zones or for homes with expensive contents. Anything above RC3 is overkill (and over-budget) for most homeowners. (silatec-bulletproofglass.com)
4. Why does every minute of resistance matter?
Most burglars give up if they don’t get in within 3–5 minutes. RC2 buys you those crucial first 180 seconds; RC3 stretches that to 5 minutes – an eternity when someone’s bashing on glass with the neighbours watching. (silatec-bulletproofglass.com)
5. I’ve seen RC2 N and RC2 – what’s the extra “N” about?
The N stands for “No glazing requirement.”
- RC2 N: the frame/hardware passes RC2, but the glass can be ordinary double-glazing.
- RC2 (no N): must include at least PA4/P4A laminated safety glass.
Choosing full RC2 prevents a “smash-and-grab” through the pane itself. (aimwin.eu)
6. Does better glass really boost the rating?
Absolutely. EN 356 glass ratings (P4A → P8B) pair with EN 1627 RC classes. Higher-class glazing resists hammers or even power tools, so the whole window earns its sticker. Skimp on glass and your RC3 frame becomes a pretty picture frame – for burglars. (aimwin.eu, protecindustrialdoors.com)
7. Apart from picking the right RC class, how else can I keep intruders out?
- Professional installation – no rattly frames or mis-set screws. (aimwin.eu)
- Multi-point locking hardware plus mushroom-head cams.
- Alarms & cameras – RC windows buy time; alarms make noise.
- Smart landscaping – thorny bushes by windows; motion lighting.
Think of RC glazing as the goalkeeper; the rest of the defence still matters!
8. Will higher RC classes ruin the look of my windows?
Not these days. Modern RC2-RC4 units can hide their muscle behind slim profiles and stylish frames – you get “Fort Knox chic” without the prison-cell vibe. Your guests will notice the view, not the crowbar-proof core. (Burglars, meanwhile, will notice the sirens.) (silatec-bulletproofglass.com)
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