Tips to Improve Your Home’s Security

There are approximately 4,800 break ins in the U.S. every day. And while you might assume that most of those occur at night, most break ins happen between 10:00am and 3:00pm. Many people are at work or school during this window which creates the perfect opportunity for a criminal to enter your home. Another surprising stat: 30% of burglars enter through a window or unlocked door. This tells us that many homeowners aren’t taking home security seriously.

Why is home security so important? Beyond protecting your monetary and financial possessions, securing your home also:

• Protects your family’s well-being
• Prevents damages from break ins
• May help you save on insurance costs

While your insurance might cover the costs of some stolen items, there are some things insurance can’t cover and probably some items that are irreplaceable in your home. If an electronic alarm system is out of your budget, use a combination of these tips to improve your home’s security:

Keyless Door Lock

Upgrade your current lock to a keyless door lock. Keyless door locks prevent you or a family member from getting locked out and allow you to create a unique code which you can change at any time. Simple to install, keyless door locks save you from changing all the locks if you lost a key somewhere or want to ensure someone who you once gave a key, doesn’t have access to your home anymore. A large part of your home’s security is ensuring i looks secure from the outside, as well. The visible keypad on the front door may act as a deterrent to criminals scaling the neighborhood for a potential home to break into. If they see a robust keyless door lock, they will recognize that you’re implementing supplementary home security measures and may be inclined to move on.

Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights

Outside, it’s all about visibility. If a burglar decides to approach your house in the dark, a motion sensor light can drastically improve your home’s security. Place a few sensors around the entrances of your home. You can also purchase infrared sensor lights which turn on the light if heat is detected in a specific area. Be sure to research the best product for your home depending on your local weather conditions and the placement of your light.

Maximize Window Security

As we learned earlier, windows are a common entryway for burglars so it’s important not to overlook your window security. Consider these options for securing your windows:

• Reinforced glass
• Install locks or deadbolts
• Ensure window air conditioners are secure so that an intruder can’t remove it and enter in the open window
• If you’ve been victim by repeat break ins, it might be time to consider window bars

Fake It

An expensive way to deter burglars and improve your home’s security is to place stickers and signage around your property that suggest you have security measures in place. ‘Beware of Dog’ and ‘Protected by an Electronic Alarm System’ signs can be purchased at your local hardware store and only take a few minutes to position on your lawn, front door, gate or other entry ways. Your signs should be unbranded to avoid any legality issues. However, some experienced burglars may recognize the vague sign as a phony so be sure your home looks secure from the outside using some of these additional tips.

Scale Back the Shrubbery

Tall shrubs, trees, and bushes give potential intruders a place to hide if their break in plan goes awry or while they’re waiting to enter the home. Trim down the shrubbery and consider replacing with flower beds and short plants to improve your home’s security. Take it a step further by planting thorny flowers!

Going Out of Town?

Keep Your Trip Private

If you’re going to be out of town for an extended period of time, avoid posting your travel plans on social media. Ensure your family members recognize the importance of this tip as well and save the beach photos for when you return. Remember: Even if you have a private profile, you never know who is sharing your posts.

Let Your Neighbor Know

If you have a trustworthy next door neighbor, let him or her know that you’ll be away. That way, they can keep an eye out for any suspicious cars or activity. Neighbors can also help potential burglars think you’re home by:

• Putting out your trash
• Bringing in your mail
• Check on your home to ensure it hasn’t been broken into

With many keyless door locks, you’ll be able to provide a neighbor with their own code to safely enter your home.

Do a “Mock” Break In

Try to get into the mindset of an intruder and head outside to do a pretend break in. Things to look for:

• Visible exterior hinges that could be removed from the outside
• Exposed wiring. If you have an electronic alarm system that could be evaded by cutting the power
• Equipment or valuables that have been left out
• Ladders, hammers, or tools burglars can use to break in

Access Control Hardware

Access control locks are advanced systems that help you control who is entering and leaving your home. Many homeowners use access control hardware to secure specific areas of their home like an office with a safe or a garage. Using a heavy duty electromagnet, access control hardware can withstand up to 1,500 pounds of force without breaking. There are many different hardware options available– speak with an expert at Qualified Hardware to determine which is best for your home and budget.
Looking for help with choosing the best hardware to secure your home? Get in touch and our team would be happy to help.