Introduction
Collectively, people spend hundreds of billions of dollars on home-improvement projects every year. While upgrades that boost your curb appeal and improve comfort are popular, one category not to overlook is security updates.
Home burglaries may be more common than you might think, so it’s not surprising that tens of billions are spent on security devices and systems annually. It’s always worth investing in measures that make your home safer for your family and keep your belongings secure.
If you think your home could do with some safeguarding, where should you start? Consider these top six security boosts, ranging from simple changes to more involved ones.
1. Secure your doors
Your front, back, and side entry points can be the more vulnerable spots for break-ins. Fortifying these can keep your home as secure as possible.
Locks - Use a high-quality deadbolt or a smart lock. For a smart lock, you’ll have the benefits of a deadbolt lock without the need for keys, as you use a code to unlock. What’s more, they can be programmed to lock automatically after a few seconds and are controllable from your smartphone.
Strike plate - Update the strike plate, which is the piece of metal that the bolt slides into your doorpost. The stronger your strike plate, the harder it is for burglars to kick in your door.
Solid-core door - Replace any entry hollow-core doors with solid-core versions, as these will be harder to breach. This can also be a good idea if your front door has glass panels that make it easier to break, reach in, and unlock the door.
Frames - Your doorpost, door frame, and door lining should be strong and sturdy, not old or rotted. Replace them if necessary.
Hinges - If your front door has hinges on the outside, you’ll want to change the position of the hinges and install the door so they’re on the inside. This prevents intruders from gaining entry by removing hinge pins.
Sliding doors - Burglars love sliding glass doors. Install door sensors and glass-break sensors. For a low-tech solution, use a window bar or dowel on the track to prevent opening.
Video doorbell - Video doorbells enable you to see who’s at your front door and communicate with them. You can operate them from your phone or another device. These also typically feature motion sensors, so you can be alerted as soon as someone is at the door.
Security doors - Add an extra layer of protection with metal security doors. These allow you to open your door and check who’s outside. They’re also great for aerating your house during hot weather.
You can upgrade your entry points at any stage of homeownership, whether you are having a new home built and choosing this as a customisation or have lived in your home for decades.
2. Window locks and sensors
According to experts, windows are another common entry point for criminals.
Locks and sensors - Replace old, loose latches with window locks, and add sensors or glass-break sensors.
Films, screens, and bars - Security film can reinforce your windows, while security screens or window bars provide a solid physical barrier to entry.
Roller shutters - Roller shutters go on the outside of your windows and can be opened and closed manually or with electric motors.
3. Outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting is an excellent deterrent for intruders.
Motion activation - Install motion-activated bright floodlights and spotlights around your property. This includes spots like your front and back entry points, pathways, the driveway, the garage, and any outdoor spaces.
Trim shrubbery - Don’t forget to trim back branches and shrubbery to eliminate potential hiding spots for would-be burglars.
Solar power - Solar-powered lights help you save on energy bills.
Smart light bulbs - If you use smart light bulbs, you can schedule on-off times and control them from your devices.
4. Security systems
Upgrade your security system and ensure it has a loud alarm, security cameras, and conspicuous signs letting lurkers know they’re being recorded.
Security cameras are a mainstay of security systems, but you can install them as standalone additions. In recent years, they’ve become sophisticated, giving you a visual overview of any area of your property in real-time on your phone. Some of the best spots to install cameras include entry points, windows, and outdoor living areas and structures.
Some security cameras come with recorded messages telling intruders they’re being recorded. Other features include motion detection, night vision, Wi-Fi connectivity, two-way talk, and cloud video storage. For the ultimate solution, you can subscribe to a professional monitoring service.
5. Smart home systems
Smart home systems aren’t only for convenience and functionality. They can enhance the security of your property. With a smart home system upgrade, you’ll be able to manage your lights, door locks, alarms, cameras, and other devices from your phone. These systems can be set up to send you alerts if there’s an intruder on your property.
If you’re going on holiday, your smart home system enhances security by letting you schedule lights, TVs, and other appliances to give the appearance of someone being at home. You can speak to people at the door if you have a smart doorbell, even if you’re in another country.
6. Garages and sheds
Don’t overlook your garages and outdoor structures like sheds. Always keep your shed and garage doors closed and locked, especially if there’s an entrance into your house from your garage.
Cover any garage windows, and keep valuable items like bikes and grills out of sight. Simple upgrades include garage door and driveway sensors and alarms, which can be connected to your smart home security system.
Conclusion
A simple way to check whether you need to upgrade security is to pretend you’re an intruder. Are there vulnerable entryways and poorly lit spots with overgrown shrubbery that make great hiding spots?
If so, then consider upgrading doors and windows and securing garage doors and outdoor structures. Adding outdoor lighting, reinforcing your security system, and investing in smart home tools could also be well worth the effort to keep your property and loved ones protected.
Some of these are simple upgrades that you may be able to do yourself, with a trip to the hardware store and a little DIY. Others require specialist input and labour. Don’t forget, if you have any doubts, it’s always best to have a professional do the work.
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