Marlene McPherson, Outlook Writer 
Photos show grille work in St. Thomas. - Marlene McPherson photo
THE DECISION of whether to grille your property is not a debatable issue for the average Jamaican family anymore.
It has more to do with security than it has to do with aesthetics, although some people think the converse is true. But grilling is now a natural task once a home is acquired.
Homeowners should be aware that grilling should not be an imposition but a 'natural element' of the decor of the home. According to Rupert London, an instructor at the Paul Bogle Institute on Lyssons Road, grilling is now used to enhance the appeal of the property even though the original idea was to use grilles to prevent burglars from entering. Some home owners have tried to make the grille on their houses a work of art. These who have succeed are those who have been able to present something that is not crowded or too busy.
They have struck a balance between security and beauty, doing the entire house and yet maintaining an aesthetic flow. This is not easy to achieve and we suggest that you consult with an expert from as early as the planning stage. No one wants to invest in grilles that are an eye sore and a constant regret.
New techniques
"There are new techniques that are now being used to enhance the appearance of the grille. Rawl bolts are used with pins and welded within the space of the windows," said Rupert London.
Grilling is also a costly venture. The average price is about $350 to $400 per square foot for corrugated steel. Consequently, to grille a small house with two windows and two doors, the price can amount to $32, 000.
The type of steel used is another cost factor to consider. Corrugated steel is not as expensive as 'hot roll' steel. The cost of the hot roll steel is reasonable, experts say, as it has a protective film that reduces corrosion which is unsightly if not treated.
Home owners with grille works who live near to the sea are susceptible to corrosion. When the grilles are in place, they have to be maintained. This can only bring added value to its life and appeal. Painting or spraying should be done every three years.
Occupants of houses that are grilled should have easy entrance and exit. Keys should be easy to reach and handled so that it does not take a long time to open and unlock the locks to the grilles
There have been instances where occupants have become victims of fire either because there were too many keys on the bunch or the keys could not be reached in time.
So weigh all these factors when contemplating grilles. Let your grilles be a work of art and simultaneously functional and safe.
