Home security is a top priority for homeowners, and the first line of defense against break-ins is ensuring your windows and doors are secure. Studies show that a little of a third of burglars enter through the front door, and 23% use first-floor windows, making these key vulnerable points the focus for fortification. With some practical hardware upgrades and modifications, you can greatly reduce the risk, deter burglars’ access and improve the safety of your home.
Keep reading to learn more about securing your windows and doors against break-ins, complete with practical solutions and expert tips.
Why Window and Door Security Matters
It should be no surprise that windows and doors are key entry points for burglars due to their accessibility and, in many cases, their lack of robust security measures. Front doors are easy to forget to lock, especially if you have family members coming in and out of your house throughout the day. Focusing on making these areas more secure you not only deter break-ins but also provide peace of mind for you and your family, whether you are home or away.
Benefits of Upgrading Security:
- Deterrence: Visible security measures discourage potential intruders.
- Time Delay: Enhanced hardware makes it harder for burglars to break in quickly, increasing the likelihood of being caught.
- Insurance Savings: Some home insurance providers offer discounts for security upgrades.
Securing Doors: Essential Upgrades
We will start with five ways to upgrade your door security today. The good news is that most of these upgrades will not break the bank and can usually be accomplished in a weekend.
1. Reinforce Door Frames and Hinges
Standard door frames are often a weak point. Reinforcing them can prevent forced entry.
- Strike Plates: Upgrade to heavy-duty strike plates with 3-inch screws that anchor into the wall stud, not just the frame.
- Hinge Screws: Replace short hinge screws with longer ones to strengthen the door’s attachment to the frame.
- Door Jamb Reinforcements: Metal door jamb kits add significant strength to the door frame.
2. Upgrade Door Locks
A strong lock is your first defense against break-ins.
- Deadbolts: Install high-quality deadbolts with a throw of at least 1 inch. Look for Grade 1 or 2 deadbolts certified by the ANSI (American National Standards Institute).
- Smart Locks: Consider electronic smart locks for keyless entry, remote control, and tamper alerts.
- Door Reinforcement Locks: These secondary locks prevent forced entry, even if the main lock is compromised.
3. Install a Door Security Bar or Brace
Door security bars and braces provide additional protection by preventing the door from being pushed open.
- Sliding Door Bars: For sliding glass doors, use a security bar or simple wooden dowel in the track to block movement.
- Floor-Mounted Door Stops: These braces are mounted into the floor and latch under the door, resisting forced entry.
4. Use Peepholes and Cameras
Knowing who is at your door before opening it is crucial for safety.
- Wide-Angle Peepholes: Install peepholes with a wide field of view.
- Video Doorbells: Smart doorbells with video and two-way audio let you monitor and communicate with visitors remotely.
5. Secure Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding doors are particularly vulnerable due to their easy-to-force locking mechanisms.
- Tracks and Locks: Install secondary locks like foot bolts or double bolt locks.
- Security Film: Apply shatter-resistant security film to the glass to make it harder to break.
- Sliding Door Sensors: Use sensors that alert you when the door is opened.
Securing Windows: Practical Enhancements
Now, we will share a few practical upgrades you can make when it comes to securing your windows from intruders.
1. Reinforce Window Frames
Like door frames, window frames are often weak points.
- Window Locks: Replace flimsy locks with heavy-duty sash locks or keyed locks.
- Hinged Wedges: For windows that open outward, hinged wedges prevent them from being forced open.
- Pin Locks: Insert pin locks to secure double-hung or sliding windows.
2. Use Security Bars and Grilles
For added protection, consider installing security bars or grilles over windows.
- Decorative Grilles: These are aesthetically pleasing and provide excellent security.
- Quick-Release Bars: Choose models with a quick-release mechanism for emergency exits.
3. Apply Security Film
Security film strengthens the glass and makes it harder to shatter, deterring intruders who might try to break windows. There are several different styles, colors and shapes to fit your home’s aesthetics.
- Tinted Film: Offers privacy and reduces visibility from outside.
- Clear Film: Maintains the natural look of windows while adding durability.
4. Install Window Sensors and Alarms
Window sensors detect unauthorized openings and trigger alarms.
- Glass Break Sensors: These detect the sound of breaking glass and send alerts.
- Window Contact Alarms: These activate when a window is opened or tampered with.
5. Upgrade Glass to Laminated or Tempered
Laminated glass is dual-paned, making the durable interlayer resistant to shattering. Tempered glass is also stronger and harder to break than standard glass.
- Laminated Glass: Ideal for ground-floor windows.
- Tempered Glass: A good option for upper-level windows or smaller panes.
Additional Tips for Window and Door Security
Here are a few additional tips to consider when upgrading your home security system.
Install Motion-Sensor Lighting
Place motion-activated lights around windows and doors to deter nighttime intruders.
- LED Lights: Use energy-efficient LEDs with wide coverage areas.
- Smart Lighting: Connect motion sensors to smart home systems for remote control.
Keep Landscaping in Check
Trim any flowers, bushes and trees near windows and doors to eliminate hiding spots for intruders. Use thorny plants as natural deterrents around vulnerable areas.
Use Security Cameras
Install cameras near windows and doors for 24/7 surveillance.
- Visible Cameras: Act as a deterrent.
- Hidden Cameras: Capture evidence without alerting intruders.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Check locks, hinges, and frames regularly to ensure they’re in good working condition. Replace worn-out components promptly.
Cost of Security Upgrades
The cost of securing windows and doors varies depending on the materials and technologies you choose. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Upgrade | Cost Range |
| Reinforced Door Frames | $100–$300 per door |
| High-Quality Deadbolts | $50–$200 each |
| Security Film | $7–$15 per square foot |
| Window Bars/Grilles | $50–$500 per window |
| Motion-Sensor Lights | $30–$100 per unit |
| Smart Doorbells | $100–$250 |
Conclusion
Securing windows and doors is one of the easiest ways to protect your home against break-ins. From upgrading locks and frames to installing smart technology, these practical modifications provide peace of mind and enhance your home’s overall security.
While no system is foolproof, taking these proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of potential unauthorized entry, thus helping your home remains a safe haven for you and your family.
You might also be interested in: 9 Essential Home Security Tips for New Homeowners
