Tips to Improve Your Home’s Security
Keeping your home safe is a top priority for every homeowner. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple steps you can take to enhance your home’s security, deter intruders, and keep your property - and loved ones - safe. From effective lighting to secure locks, here are our top tips for boosting home security.
Choose the Right Front Door and Secure the Surroundings
Your front door is one of the most critical entry points to secure, as it’s often the first target for intruders. The material of your door, the type of locks, and even the surrounding design can all affect your home’s security. Here are some tips for making sure your front door is as secure as possible:
Aluminium and composite doors are generally more secure than traditional wooden or PVC doors. Aluminium doors are highly durable and resistant to forced entry, making them a great choice for security-conscious homeowners. Composite doors, which combine materials like wood, PVC, and insulating foam, are also tough and offer excellent insulation along with enhanced security.
Doors with glass panels close to the handle can be a security risk, as intruders can break the glass to reach in and unlock the door. If you have a door with glass panels, consider reinforced glass or adding security film to make it harder to break. Alternatively, choose a door with glass positioned far from the handle or with a frosted finish for privacy.
Adding a security chain or door bar can prevent an intruder from forcing entry if you open the door to speak with someone.
This allows you to see who is at the door without opening it, providing an added layer of safety.
No matter the material, upgrading to a high-security lock, such as a British Standard deadlock or a multi-point locking system, can greatly improve security.
By choosing a secure front door and reinforcing vulnerable areas, you’ll create a stronger barrier against break-ins. Even small upgrades, like adding a durable aluminium door or reinforcing door frames, can make a significant difference.
Improve Your Home's Exterior Lighting
Outdoor lighting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to enhance security. Proper lighting illuminates your property, making it less appealing to potential intruders who prefer darkness to avoid detection. Here are some tips on using lighting to your advantage:
Motion sensor lights are excellent for deterring trespassers, as sudden illumination can startle them and make them feel exposed.
Lighting pathways and driveways not only makes your home more welcoming but also ensures there are no dark spots near entry points.
Solar lights are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and easy to install. Try our solar powered outdoor wall light for reliable, energy-efficient lighting that keeps your home visible and safe.
For brighter, consistent lighting, mains-powered options are also great. Our mains powered outdoor up and down wall light provides robust illumination for entryways and garages, making it harder for potential intruders to hide.
Get a Dog, or Make It Look Like You Have One
Dogs are not only great companions but also excellent deterrents for intruders. A barking dog signals to potential intruders that there is a vigilant presence in the house.
Even if you don’t have a dog, a simple sign can make potential trespassers think twice. A nice and simple slate sign will work wonders.
Leaving dog-related items like a leash or dog toys in view can give the impression that you have a canine guardian, adding an extra layer of deterrence.
Installing a new metal lock or latch on your garden gate is an effective way to enhance security. Opting for a latch that produces a noticeable sound when the gate is opened or closed can further deter intruders, as the noise may discourage them from attempting to enter unnoticed.
Secure Your Front Gate & Garden
A front gate adds an additional layer of security by creating a boundary around your property. Gates (and fences) not only make it harder for intruders to approach your home but also limit visibility into your property.
Install a Lock on Your Gate
A lockable gate increases the difficulty for anyone attempting to enter your property without permission.
Consider Privacy Fencing
If security is a priority, choose a gate or fence that obscures the view of your home from the street, making it harder for potential intruders to assess the property.
Secure All Your Windows
Your front door is one of the most critical entry points to secure, as it’s often the first target for intruders. The material of your door, the type of locks, and even the surrounding design can all affect your home’s security. Consider using window restrictors to limit how wide they can open too.
Use Visible House Numbers
Having a visible house number may not seem like a security measure, but it actually plays an important role. In emergencies, police or paramedics need to quickly locate your home. A clearly visible house number helps them find you faster, especially in low-light conditions or densely populated areas.
Choose Reflective or Illuminated House Numbers
Reflective or illuminated house numbers are easier to spot at night and during adverse weather.
Place House Numbers in Well-Lit Area
Ensure your house number is visible from the road and adequately lit. You can install it near an outdoor wall light for extra visibility.
Get Your Home a Number Sign Today
Explore our range of house number signs to make sure your property is easily identifiable.
Order a House Number NowKeep Valuables Out of Sight and Out of the Garden
One of the easiest ways to deter theft is to keep valuable items out of view, both inside and outside your home.
Motion sensor lights are excellent for deterring trespassers, as sudden illumination can startle them and make them feel exposed.
Items left out in the garden or driveway are easy targets. Store them securely to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
Use storage boxes, sheds, or garages to store valuable items when not in use.
Secure any outbuildings where valuables are stored with a sturdy lock, and consider installing a motion-activated light nearby to keep these areas well-lit.
Invest in an Alarm System
An alarm system is a highly effective deterrent, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Many burglars will avoid homes with visible alarm systems and security cameras.
Choose a System with Monitoring
A monitored system sends alerts to both you and a professional monitoring service if there’s a break-in, ensuring a quick response.
Place Visible Cameras and Security Stickers:
If you don’t want to invest in a full alarm system, simply placing security cameras or stickers that indicate you have surveillance can be a deterrent.
Our Final Thoughts
Improving your home’s security doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By following these simple tips, from enhancing your exterior lighting to securing your doors, you can make your home safer and more resilient to potential intruders. Don’t forget to check out our range of security-enhancing products, like our solar outdoor wall light and mains powered outdoor up and down wall light, to keep your property well-lit and protected at all times. Small additions like visible house numbers and outdoor lighting can make a big difference in keeping your property safe.
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