Home Security - Protection Starts With Windows And Doors

Advancements in technology have given us the ability to protect ourselves and our homes at the touch of a button. New tools allow us to see who’s ringing the doorbell, activate alarms, or shut garages without being physically present. These so-called “smart houses” come at a price, though, as systems and additional maintenance can add hundreds to thousands of dollars worth of expenses. Costs come at the discretion of the homeowner depending on how tech-savvy they’d like their property to become; however, going back to the basics of window and door security can be a simple starting point for improved home security.

Materials

Frequent forced entry occurs through windows and doors, but windows are seen as the easiest access points. To combat this, the materials that your windows are made of should be taken into consideration. There are stronger, more durable elements out there than others, and these include reinforced glass, polycarbonate & plexiglas, and window bars. Across the mentioned glass types, thickness, strength, and durability are greatly improved. Most are reasonably priced, though options like bullet-proof or wire mesh glass have a more costly price tag. All can be crafted into visually appealing designs, including the window bars. Many companies specialize in the appearance of these add-ons, making them both burglar-deterring and beautiful.

Lock Types

Both doors and windows have standard locks built in upon purchase; nevertheless, the more the better when it comes to these potential entryways into your homes. For those with crank-out windows, having a pair of secondary locks can be indispensable. The three most popular types are flip locks, keyed locks, and sash locks. All can be found at local home improvement stores. Inspecting the window or door frames and hinges can uncover additional areas as of entry as well. If any part of the initial lock or structure fail, having a backup can deter or make it more difficult to break-in.

Extra Lighting Or Alarms

These precautions are effective when placed throughout and around the home, but it’s important to install them in darker areas that don’t get a lot of activity. Well-lit areas deter home invaders due to a higher chance of being seen. These can be installed on a timer, turned on manually, or set for motion detection. Wireless alarms are popular as well, though they offer less security than a professionally installed monitored system. This is because wireless alarms only go off if doors or windows are opened as opposed to glass being broken. Even so, they are great additions to any entryway and provide affordable, long-lasting protection for your home.

Visibility

If interested in a more technological solution, there are plenty of security cameras on the market today. According to a study conducted by the Electronic Security Association (ESA), 83% of burglars would check if a home had security cameras prior to breaking in, and 60% of thieves would avoid these homes altogether. Though tempting to install or put up fake security cameras, these are easily recognized and won’t be as effective in safeguarding your home.

With the option to invest in high-tech surveillance or home protection tools, looking at what you have and how to improve it should be the first course of action. Simple additions like locks, easy-to-install cameras and alarms, and more durable materials can deter or stop potential thieves in their tracks. If interested in how to best protect areas of your home, reach out for a consultation at Select Windows, Inc. With more than 25 years of experience, our team can help you design, select, and install the best windows and doors to meet your needs. View our extensive gallery of offerings, visit our showroom, or give us a call at (650) 941-0744 to learn more today.

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