Home security is one of the most important considerations for any homeowner. In the UK, the majority of break-ins occur through windows and doors, often because early generation windows and doors were never designed or tested to resist forced entry.

Today, the good news is that most window and door brands have some level of securithy testing. and PAS 24 is one such test. PAS 24 is one of the most important security standards in the glazing industry and a key benchmark when choosing new windows and doors for your home.

This guide explains what PAS 24 means, how it is tested, and why it matters when specifying windows and doors that genuinely protect your property.

What Is PAS 24?

PAS 24 (Publicly Available Specification 24) is a UK security standard developed by the British Standards Institution. It sets out minimum performance requirements for windows and doors used in residential buildings.

In simple terms, PAS 24 confirms that a window or door has been physically tested to resist common burglary methods. It focuses on real-world attack scenarios rather than theoretical performance claims.

PAS 24 is not just about strong locks. It assesses the complete product, including the frame, glazing, hardware, and how everything works together under pressure.

What Does PAS 24 Apply To?

PAS 24 covers a wide range of residential products, including:

• External doors such as front doors, back doors, bifold doors, and sliding doors
• Windows of all types, including casement, tilt and turn, and sash windows

Testing examines multiple factors, including:

• Resistance to forced entry and leverage
• Impact resistance to glass and frames
• Locking systems and hardware security
• Structural integrity under sustained attack

A product only achieves PAS 24 certification if it passes all stages of testing without failure.

How PAS 24 Testing Works

PAS 24 testing is carried out in accredited UK laboratories. The aim is to simulate realistic break-in attempts rather than controlled or ideal conditions. Testing includes:

Mechanical Load Testing
Pressure is applied to critical points such as hinges, locks, and frame corners to assess structural strength.

Manual Attack Testing
Tools commonly used by intruders, including crowbars and screwdrivers, are used to attempt forced entry.

Impact Testing
Glass and frames are repeatedly struck to assess resistance to blunt force.

Lock Manipulation Tests
Locking mechanisms are checked to ensure they cannot be easily picked, disengaged, or forced.

Only products that withstand all of these tests in their approved configuration achieve PAS 24 certification.

Why PAS 24 Certification Matters

For homeowners, PAS 24 is not a marketing term. It is evidence of proven security.

Key benefits include:
• Proven protection against forced entry
• Greater peace of mind, especially for ground-floor openings
• Recognition by insurers, with some policies favouring certified products
• Compliance support for Building Regulations Approved Document Q in new homes

Importantly, PAS 24 goes beyond visual reassurance. It confirms that the product has been physically tested and independently verified.

A Common Misunderstanding About PAS 24

One of the most important points homeowners should understand is that PAS 24 is configuration-specific.

A window or door is not automatically PAS 24 compliant just because the system can achieve it. Factors such as size, glass type, hardware selection, and opening configuration all matter.

Many products whilst tested to PAS 24 are not provided with the same specification as the tested product. One example is the glass used. In testing, laminated glass (one of the most secure glass types) is often used.

Therefore, if you want PAS 24 certified windows and doors, you have to ask for them. They do not come as standard.

PAS 24 and Other Security Standards

PAS 24 often works alongside other recognised standards:
• Secured by Design – a police-backed initiative that requires PAS 24 compliance
• BS EN 1627 – a European resistance classification standard
• BS 7412 – covering performance of PVCu windows, including security

While these standards are useful, PAS 24 remains the most relevant benchmark for UK residential security.

Choosing PAS 24-Compliant Windows and Doors

When specifying new windows or doors, always ask:
• Is the product tested to the current PAS 24 standard?
• Does certification apply to the actual size and configuration being installed?
• Are the glass, locks, and hardware included in the test evidence?

Reliable suppliers should be able to provide test documentation and confirm compliance in writing.