There are many layers to a reliable home security system. From alarms and security cameras to your choice of doors and windows, here are a few things to consider to make your home more secure and deter prospective burglars.
External doors
Your choice of front and back doors can make a significant difference to how secure your home is. A composite door with a sophisticated locking system, for example, is an excellent choice if you’re looking to maximise home security. Your choice of door handle will also have an impact on how secure your door is. A handle with steel reinforcement, for example, will provide ‘jemmy resistance’. This will stop a burglar from snapping the door handle, making it more difficult for them to gain entry.
Senator’s Exclusive Ingenious 9-Point Locking System
uPVC back doors come with high-security multi-point locking mechanisms, cylinders and handles. They also come with toughened safety glass as standard and have an internal bead which prevents the glass from being removed from the outside. Speak to your sales representative about the different security options available.
Windows
Replacing old windows will improve the security of your home. Recent advancements in window design mean windows are now more secure than ever. Depending on your specific requirements, you will be able to choose from a range of locking features that can deliver protection from intruders.
Shootbolt Locking Mechanism
Choosing laminated glass will make the glass more difficult to break, so it is an excellent choice if you’re looking to make your home more secure. Laminated glass is made up of two layers of glass with an inner impact-resistant membrane situated between the panes. Never leave windows open when your house is unattended or when you go to bed at night. If you like to sleep with a window open, choose a locking system that allows your window to be locked whilst left slightly open.
Fencing & hedges
While hedges and fencing are great for making your home more secure and giving privacy, they mustn’t be so high that they hide your house completely. Trim any foliage or hedges so you limit places for a thief to hide.
If you do have a fence, make sure it is sturdy and robust. Gates are another great deterrent. If you have electric gates, consider installing an intercom that allows you to answer from your phone. You can also get doorbells with the same feature. These are great as you can answer even when you’re not home, and most have video too so you can see who’s calling.
Security cameras & alarms
Installing an alarm system is another great way to deter burglars. Make sure the alarm box is visible on the exterior of your home.
Security cameras also act as an effective security measure to put burglars off. Make sure you locate them in a place that is visible from outside your properties boundary.
Lighting
Lighting the front of your home is a fantastic way to create interest and make your home feel welcoming, but aside from the aesthetic benefits, lighting is also a great security measure.
Make sure any areas where a thief could gain access to your home are well lit and make sure to light any entrances. Fit lighting around your front door. Add recessed lighting beneath the eaves or fit LED lights into a path. Motion detection lights are also a good idea and act as a deterrent to prospective burglars.
Also think about having lights that come on automatically. These are great if you are away as it gives the impression someone is home. There are many options available, like Wi-Fi enabled bulbs that can be operated remotely from your mobile phone or simpler systems that work on a timer.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Managing Director Optimise Design, B.Arch. RIAI RIBA
& Senator’s Expert Design Consultant
This blog post is sponsored, but the views expressed by the author are her own.
