- Install high-quality locks on entry points to make them difficult to pick or break.
- Use lighting around the home, such as motion-activated lights and spotlights.
- Invest in a durable door with added reinforcement and security screens.
- Utilize security cameras with features like motion detection, remote access, and night vision.
- Evaluate your home’s security regularly and upgrade as necessary.
As a homeowner or renter, keeping your home and family safe is a top priority. One way to achieve this is by enhancing the security of your home’s exterior. Many burglars often gain access to homes through weak entry points like doors and windows. Therefore, it is essential to secure these entry points to discourage burglars from attempting to break in. Here are some effective strategies for enhancing the security of your home’s exterior.
Install High-Quality Locks
Installing high-quality locks on your doors and windows is the first step to enhancing the security of your home’s exterior. Deadbolts, smart locks, and mortise locks are some of the most popular options for securing your doors.
When it comes to windows, consider installing window locks or security films to prevent break-ins. It is also essential to ensure that all locks are functioning correctly and replace any damaged locks promptly. For instance, if your locks are old and worn out, they may be easier to pick or break into.
In some cases, it may be worthwhile to invest in advanced locks, such as keyless entry systems that use biometric authentication or wireless fobs.
Use Lighting
Lighting your home’s exterior is another effective strategy for enhancing its security. Motion-activated lights or smart lighting systems can deter burglars from attempting to break in by making them think someone is home. Here are places in your home that you need to illuminate so there are no dark spots that burglars can use for cover:
Entry Points
A well-lit home is less attractive to burglars as it increases visibility and makes potential break-ins more risky. Installing lights near entry points such as doors, windows, and garages can help to deter burglars, as they will be easily visible when attempting to gain access.
Walkways
Lighting walkways and pathways around the house is another crucial component of security. Installing motion-activated lights along your walkways, stairs, or driveways can help you see who is coming and going from your property. Not only can this help prevent burglaries, but it can also add to the overall aesthetic of your home.
Yard
Lighting your yard is an integral part of enhancing the security of your home’s exterior. Installing lights in your front and backyards can help to increase visibility around your property. Motion-activated floodlights or spotlights will also make it difficult for burglars to use the darkness as cover.
Invest in a Door Upgrade
The security of your home’s exterior should not be taken lightly, and it is vital to invest in durable doors that are designed to withstand any attempts at forced entry. Steel doors are a great choice as they are strong, secure, and challenging to break into.
Reinforcement bars or security screens can also be added for additional protection. For example, sliding door locks, security latch guards, and kick-proof plates are all practical solutions for providing extra security.
Furthermore, it is essential to inspect the door frame for any damage or signs of wear and tear. If there are any weak points in the frame, it is essential to repair or replace them as soon as possible.
Consider Security Cameras
Installing security cameras on your property can help deter burglars and identify any suspicious activity around your home. Place cameras at entry points and other strategic locations like the driveway and the backyard. Here are some advanced features that can make it easier to monitor your home’s exterior:
Motion Detection
Security cameras with motion detection capabilities can be extremely beneficial for protecting your home’s exterior. These cameras detect any movement around the property and alert you immediately. You can also set up automatic alerts that will send notifications to your mobile phone or email address when motion is detected.
Remote Access
Security cameras with remote access capabilities are especially useful for monitoring the exterior of your home from anywhere. With this feature, you can view live streaming footage on your laptop or smartphone and even control the camera’s pan and tilt remotely.
Night Vision
Cameras with night vision capabilities can be extremely useful for monitoring your home’s exterior at night. These cameras are equipped with infrared and low-light sensors, which allow you to see what is happening around your property, even in complete darkness.
Enhancing the security of your home’s exterior is crucial to keeping your home and family safe from burglars and intruders. By investing in high-quality locks, lighting, landscaping, security cameras, and security screen doors, you can discourage burglars from attempting to break in. Remember to evaluate your home’s security regularly and make necessary upgrades to ensure that you are always protected.