Easy Ways to Secure Your Home

Home security is always a top priority for any homeowner. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be very complicated or expensive. 

With just a few practical steps, you will be able to significantly improve the safety of your property. It doesn’t matter if you live in a house or an apartment, making sure you are protecting your home will give you peace of mind. 

It will also help to deter unwanted visitors. From smart tech to handling physical barriers, take a look at six simple and effective ways you can secure your home.

1. Reinforce Doors and Windows

The majority of break-ins often happen through doors and windows. This is why you should first focus on these. Install deadbolts on all exterior doors, and upgrade to solid-core doors. 

Add a strike plate for the strengthening of door frames. For windows, you should use locks or install shatter-resistant film this will make them a lot harder to break. 

Even doing something as simple as putting a wooden dowel in a sliding door track can often be effective.

2. Install Outdoor Lighting

Burglars will often target areas that are poorly lit. Outdoor lighting is an affordable and effective way in which you can increase security around your home. 

Be sure to install motion-sensor lights near doors, pathways, as well as blind spots. These will not only scare off intruders but they will also alert you to any unusual activity as well. 

Solar-powered lights are a great energy-efficient option. They are easy to set up without wiring. A well-lit yard will make your home a lot less inviting to trespassers.

3. Use Smart Home Security Devices

Technology offers you budget-friendly ways in which you can monitor your home. Video doorbells, wireless cameras, as well as smart locks, can all be connected to your phone. 

These tools will allow you to watch live feeds, lock your doors remotely, and get alerts whenever something’s off. Some devices will even allow you to have two-way communication, this way you can speak to anyone at your door. Many of these systems are DIY-friendly and they will require no monthly fees at all.

4. Secure Your Perimeter

Physical barriers will always play a key role in the safety of your home. Adding fencing around your yard is going to discourage intruders and also make your property boundaries very clear.

Choose strong materials such as wood, vinyl, or even metal so you can have added durability. Make sure your gates are lockable and secure. 

Even a modest picket fence will improve your security when it is paired with strategic landscaping, such as thorny bushes under windows or tall hedges along your walkways.

5. Don’t Advertise Your Absence

A home that appears empty is a lot more likely to be targeted. When you’re away, make sure you keep your house looking occupied. 

Try to use timers to turn on lights in the evening, and have a neighbor collect your mail. Always avoid posting your travel plans online. If at all possible, leave a car parked in the driveway. These small efforts make a huge difference when it comes to discouraging burglars.