Home Security

Unfortunately, crime has become a part of our society that we can’t ignore. It’s not enough to have the family living in a home that’s got the best heating system and enough good food in the refrigerator to keep them eating well for a lifetime, you need to look after their security issues as well. But in any market-based economy where there’s a demand, the market usually comes along to fill in the need and home security is no exception. There are also many things that the average consumer can do. The following is a list of the kinds of things that the average homeowner should be diligent about when it comes to home security.

Many front doors don’t have a secured lock. Homeowners might take offense to that statement and say that they do, but the definition of a truly secured lock might be different depending on how much you know about the subject. Did you know that one common way of breaking into any home is simply kicking the front door in? To prevent this, you need to have a reinforcement around the strike plate which is the part the bolt fits into. Without any reinforcement, a lock can be pried open by bending the frame.  There are other problems with doors as well. The area or glass in or beside a door are easy targets as well and they need to be glazed properly to resist a robber’s attempts at smashing the glass and reaching in to undo the lock.

It’s important to remember that hinges are another weak point and if the screws are exposed they should be covered over with pin or lock screws that prevent hinge pin removals. There are lots of other doors that need attention as well. Unlocked garage doors give burglars all the tools they need, like ladders and such, to continue on with a crime spree. All patio doors should have a locking bar that prevents them from being slipped out of their tracks.

Windows are another issue. Most of these are made from normal window glass and are therefore easy to break in to, and they are especially vulnerable if they’ve been left open even just an inch on a hot day. One of the best ways to correct this problem is by drilling holes into the frame and inserting double headed nails that can be adjusted in different positions so the window can be left open a space to get some air. Remember not to leave the window open enough so that the thief can put his hand inside and open the window up and to position the nails so that he can’t pull them out. 

Return To Our Home and House Learning Library

Visit Our Home Inspection Supersite