Security and safety are undoubtedly among the most important things to any homeowner. However, many of the best home security solutions can cost homeowners anything between $200 and $600 or more on average.
This is not to mention the monthly security monitoring costs, which can range from $25 to $50 on average.
Thankfully, there are a few DIY hacks you can use to beef up your home’s security without spending an arm and a leg.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at these DIY home security ideas you can borrow as a new homeowner.
Install Motion Sensor Lights
Whether you use these to scare away intruders or simply as a way of deterring the creepy ones, motion sensor lights are a great way to turn your home into a secure, burglar-proof fortress.The timers turn the lights on and off when movement is detected.
When installing motion sensor lighting, mount the lights near entryways. The beams should be pointed outward or away from the entryway to avoid shining directly into an occupied room.
In addition, install outdoor motion sensors to detect approaching intruders or burglars.
Get a Swing Gate Opener
Swing gates are commonly used in entryways like carports, garages, and even the main property entrance for providing security against intrusion. It’s even better in making your home more secure if it’s automatic and can be operated remotely.
This is why the folks at AllSecurityEquipment often recommend using swing gate openers as part of your security gate systems. Some of the best gate openers come with a clear installation manual, so you may not need a professional to install them if you have the tools needed for the job.
Keep Your Shrubs Trimmed
Overgrown bushes and shrubs tend to block sightlines to your doors and windows as well as those of the neighbors. They create hiding spots, and this is something that burglars tend to take advantage of.
One of the easiest ways to beef up security in your home is to keep shrubbery and trees trimmed and neat. By doing so, burglars are less likely to try breaking into your home for the fear of being sighted.
Reinforce Your Windows
As far as increasing home security is concerned, reinforcing your windows can also go a long way in upgrading your home’s security and protecting you from intruders. It simply means installing an extra protective film to make your windows less resistant to breaking.
Usually, the best way to do this is to use impact-resistant materials like steel and reinforced fiberglass.
Some homeowners also like using “crack-and-wave” window replacements. This is usually tempered glass that “cracks” when broken instead of shattering like glass does.
Other popular impact-resistant materials used to reinforce glass windows include scratch-resistant epoxy and silicon.
Install Deadbolts on Entry Doors
Most home security experts recommend that you install deadbolts on the main doors of your house. The same should be done for any other major entryways in the house (including windows) that you feel are the most susceptible to intruders.
Installing deadbolts that are made to withstand a certain amount of force can ensure your home is secure from intrusion, even when you’re away.
An additional security measure you can take is to hide a large or heavy rock or piece of scrap iron under your doormat to deter burglars from trying to pry open the door.
Install a Security Cam System
You can get a home security cam system for relatively cheap, and it can help you monitor and protect your home from intruders. It’s also a common approach businesses use to prevent burglary and theft on their commercial premises.
The cameras can be installed on walls or windows, the main gate, and other areas to give you a good view of the different parts of your home.
While the costs might be flexible, the main challenge with this one is that you might need to work with a CCTV technician to see the project through from installation.
Final tip: Be proactive
As a homeowner, you need to know that the best way to protect your home from intruders is to avoid the possibility altogether.
This can be done by being mindful of your surroundings and perhaps using some of these DIY security-enhancing tips. Working with a security company that can effectively monitor your home can be a huge plus.