The security of your home is something you can’t ignore or delay because this is where you keep all your valuables and where your loved ones live. Not to mention, your home is where you can unwind and be completely yourself.
You wouldn’t be able to enjoy the end of a long day at work if you knew strangers also had access to your sanctuary, would you? But a home security system is not exactly easy to select (nor is it low-cost). Plus, you have to find the right installation specialists and decide on the type of devices and tools you want – it’s a bit of a headache.
Luckily, there are some upgrades you can make yourself that are cost-effective and keep burglars at a distance.
Here are some of the most efficient ones:
Create a Secure Entryway
The safety of your home starts at the entryway, which is where your front door is. Plus, the design and build of your front door have a lot to do with what people will think about your home.
For instance, a sturdy door with deadbolt locks, security cameras, and a security screen made out of Lattice Screening or custom Woven Wire mesh sends the message that the house is well-guarded and there are zero chances of infiltration. Furthermore, a well-designed door can help optimize energy consumption inside the house and reduce waste. Your door should be complete with locks, which can be installed by a Residential Deadbolt Lock Installation service.
This way, by installing an energy-efficient sturdy door, you have a two-in-one deal – better security and an upgrade make the house greener.
Install an Outdoor Lighting System
Outdoor lights upgrade the security of your home but also make it easier to go outside at night (should you have to). If you’re worried about energy consumption, you can install sensors that trigger the light when movement is detected.
Also, you can install a series of outdoor LED signs for the areas where you don’t need lighting but would like some guidance in the dark. And, if you’re feeling mischievous, you can use these LED signs to create misdirection in case someone tries to sneak in.
Upgrade Your Doorbell
In a world where everyone surfs the web to discover their treasure, we have a new kind of piracy – porch piracy. The practice is so common nowadays that you can find guidance on what to do if your package is stolen from your porch.
But what if you find ways to avoid this? After all, today may be your online shopping, but a pirate may get bold and try to see if they can pillage your house next.
One way to keep your package safe between the moment it gets dropped at your door and the moment you collect it is to install an advanced wireless doorbell with a built-in camera, sensors, speakers, and microphone.
The doorbell’s camera will record anyone who approaches your door, the sensors will send a notification to your phone, and you can use the speakers and microphone to communicate with the person intruding on your property.
Give Up on Keys
One upgrade that increases home security and raises your home’s market value (in case you ever decide to sell your house) is a keyless electronic lock. They are easy to install, cost-efficient, and provide a lot more control than good old keys.
The electronic lock can be programmed to accept several different entry codes (for guests, staff, and visitors) and can track each of them. Plus, if you don’t want to allow someone to enter, all you have to do is change the code.
However, you’ll have to keep an eye on its power source (usually batteries) and make sure you know what to do if it loses power or you get locked out because you forgot the code.
In Summary
A solid door with keyless locks, paired with a good outdoor lighting system and an advanced doorbell, are some low-cost and effective upgrades you can make to keep your home safe from intruders.