We all want to feel safe and secure at home. Learn 6 simple steps you can take to boost home security.
We all want a home that feels comfortable and secure. We want to feel safe at home and to safeguard our families and valuables.
After all, nobody wants a break-in. There's no worse feeling than knowing you've had an intruder in your house. After it happens, it can be hard to shake the feeling that you're at risk.
So, let's look at ways we can stop it happening in the first place. In this article, we'll recommend security best practices that you can put in place without breaking the bank.
But first, let's look at a few FAQs.
How common are burglaries?
You may be surprised at just how common burglaries are.
In 2023, there were just over 200,000 reported break-ins at residential properties in England and Wales. Throw in business addresses and the total tops 300,000. Yikes.
What is the cost of a burglary for a homeowner?
On average, each break-in causes around £1,500 of property damage. On top of that, our uninvited guests typically remove between £2,000 and £3,000 in stolen goods – and a hefty 84% of homeowners are left in emotional distress once the dust has settled.
As you can see, spending a little now to put the right security measures in place could save you a fortune further down the line.
Is it safer to leave lights on?
It's a myth that leaving a light on makes your house less likely to be targeted.
So, there's no need to bother with timer switches – they're a waste of time and electricity. In fact, they might even serve as a beacon that tells people you're away.
When do burglaries happen – and how?
Over half of residential burglaries happen under the cover of darkness. And burglars almost always gain access by forcing a door or window.
This kicks us off nicely with the first of our safety tips…
Tip 1: make sure your locks are solid
Deadbolts are the kings of locks. They're a must on all exterior doors.
Deadbolt locks are operated by a key or thumb turn and have no spring-loaded parts. This means they can't be opened through the crack between the door and frame.
Spring-latch locks are among the weakest locking systems. They can be opened from the exterior using a thin blade or credit card – just like in the movies.
If you have spring-latch locks on any exterior doors in your home, you should consider changing these to deadbolts as soon as possible.
Deadbolts come in a range of shapes and sizes. The more bolts that lock into the frame, the more secure the lock.
Tip 2: secure your windows
Now that your doors are locked firmly, it's time to look at your windows.
Often, the weakest part here is the glass itself. That's why double glazing is a must. Good-quality double-glazed windows can often withstand attack from objects like bricks. And thanks to the glazing design, it's almost impossible to remove a double-glazed window pane from outside.
UPVC windows can be locked with an espagnolette locking system. Specially designed for windows and UPVC doors, these locks have a multi-point bolt system, meaning that windows are secured at more than one point along the un-hinged edge.
These locks should always be used when windows are shut – and especially when your house is vacant.
Tip 3: change the locks when you move in
Professional locksmiths advise that you should change all exterior locks when you move into a new home.
This ensures you're the only key holder, so you'll be safe even if unsolicited copies of your keys are changing hands.
Remember: even the most secure locks in the world are no match for a stolen or copied key. If a criminal has the key to your home – and you haven't taken the time to change the locks – they could open your front door in a matter of seconds.
Tip 4: always have a backup
Why use one lock when two or more will do? After all, there's no such thing as "too secure", so it's worth installing backup locks to help deter those particularly persistent intruders.
Add-on locks come in all shapes and sizes for both doors and window frames. There's the classic security door chain, for instance, which lets you open the door an inch or two before deciding whether to grant entry. Then, at the premium end of the scale, there are Digi-locks that require a code, fob or even biometric data to get through.
Tip 5: install an alarm
A good, loud alarm system can be a burglar's biggest enemy. That's because potential thieves want to avoid any attention – especially when trying to gain access to a building.
Even a basic electric-current alarm system can be enough to put them off. These work by monitoring door and window entry points. An open door or window on an armed system will disrupt the electrical circuit and trigger the alarm.
More advanced systems work by transmitting signals by wire (or wirelessly) to a control panel, which can be monitored by a third party or linked up to a smartphone.
Remember: if you're installing a wired alarm system, request that the wires be placed out of sight or hidden in walls. A snipped wire can disable this type of system.
Tip 6: get a doorbell camera
Doorbell camera systems are becoming ever more popular and are convenient for a whole range of reasons. After all, we all hate missing parcel deliveries!
They also punch above their weight in terms of security, as they serve as cheap CCTV systems for your property. The technology can be linked to a smartphone and often integrates motion detection and infrared as standard.
Get these from as little as £40 and start making your home security feel a little smarter.
How we can help
So, what if all that stands between you and the outside world are some old sprung locks and a bed of spiky rose bushes?
Well, fear not. Here at Calder Windows, we offer a wide range of doors and windows that are built with exceptional security in mind.
All our residential, composite and French doors use euro cylinder Yale locks: the gold standard for strength and security. Our uPVC and aluminium windows, meanwhile, feature highly secure reverse-action inline locking systems.
We also offer expert door and window repair. So, if you're unlucky enough to be the victim of a burglary attempt, we can secure your home and grant you peace of mind in no time at all.
Need a
window and door specialist that puts security first? If you live in Yorkshire, don't hesitate to
get in touch for a fast, free and fair quote.
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