As the summer draws to a close, now is the best time to make the most of CJW Locksmiths’ Home Door Security Tips.
Recent statistics show that doors remain a primary entry point for burglars, with 76% of intruders gaining access via a door in 2021. Even more concerning, 33% of these break-ins involved forced entry, while a staggering 14.5% simply involved opening an unlocked door. Essentially, this shows the focus needed on your home door security in 2024 to keep your home and family.
CJW Locksmiths will share the modern ways to boost your door security for your peace of mind.
Home Door Security Tips: Always Lock Your Doors!
It sounds simple, but locking your doors is the first and most critical step to protecting your home. While most people lock their doors out of habit, it is surprising how many still forget from time to time. Getting into the routine of checking that all doors are locked significantly reduces the chance of a break-in, when you are out as well as asleep.
Additionally, home insurance providers often ask about the type of locks on your external, patio, and garage doors. Properly securing your home with high-quality locks prevent break-ins and also guarantee that your home insurance policy remains valid. Alternatively, failing to lock your doors could result in a claim being denied in the event of a burglary.
Consider a Door Replacement
If your door is old, damaged, or compromised, then it may be time to consider a door replacement. A weak or broken door is an easy target for burglars and repairing it might not always be enough. Opting for a new, high-security door can provide an extra layer of protection for your home.
Different door types offer varying levels of security, durability, and thermal efficiency. Here is a brief overview of common door materials:
- Wooden Doors: While they add charm and traditional appeal, wooden doors can be less secure than alternatives. This is as a result of them prone to warping and rot over time.
- Aluminium Doors: Durable and weather-resistant, aluminium doors provide excellent strength and longevity. Therefore, this makes them a solid option for home security.
- uPVC Doors: These doors are both secure and low-maintenance. When combined with multi-point locking systems, uPVC doors offer excellent protection against forced entry.
- Composite Doors: Constructed from a combination of materials, composite doors are sturdy, weather-resistant, and energy-efficient. Ultimately, this will provide high levels of security and insulation.
If you are unsure which type of door is best for your home, consult professional locksmiths or security experts.
Upgrade to High-Security Locks
Not all locks offer the same level of protection. To improve your home’s security, consider upgrading to high-security locks. Different types of locks come with varying security features, which safeguard your home and may reduce your home insurance premiums.
For example, uPVC doors often come with euro cylinder locks, but these can be vulnerable to lock snapping. High-security models offer enhanced protection against forced entry, such as anti-snap locks. Consider upgrading your locks to British Standard (BS3621) models, which are best recognised for their superior security features.
Some well-known high-security brands include Ultion and ABS locks, both of which provide advanced protection against break-ins. Always ensure your locksmith installs these types of locks to maximise your home’s security.
Install a Smart Lock in 2024
Technology has revolutionised home security, and smart locks are an excellent upgrade for your doors in 2024. Smart locks come with a range of features designed to enhance security, such as remote access, real-time notifications, and activity logs. Perhaps the biggest innovation is showing who exactly has entered or exited your home.
Controlled via a smartphone app, smart locks let you grant or revoke access to family members, friends, or service providers. Some models even integrate with smart home systems, thus allowing you to lock or unlock doors remotely. This is in addition to receiving alerts when someone tries to tamper with your lock.
This upgrade gives you more control, so ensures you never need to worry about losing your keys again.
Home Door Security Tips: Add Extra Door Security Accessories
Above all, we would look into door security accessories and their massive impact on home security. Simple, cost-effective additions can significantly enhance the security of your home.
Peepholes
A peephole allows you to see who’s outside your door before you open it. Essentially, adding a layer of security and preventing unwanted visitors from gaining access. It’s a simple and affordable solution, which is vital in helping you make informed decisions about answering the door.
Door Chains
Another simple addition is a door chain, which offers an additional line of defence when opening your door. It allows you to partially open the door to speak with someone without giving them full access to your home. This can prevent someone from forcing their way in and ultimately provide you with extra peace of mind.
Smart Doorbells
Take your front door security to the next level with a smart doorbell. The beauty of smart doorbells is you can see, speak to, and record visitors without even opening the door. Some models offer live video feeds, motion detection, and mobile app connectivity, so gives you full control over who approaches your home.
Home Door Security Tips and Services from CJW Locksmiths
After applying these security measures, take a moment to conduct a thorough home security audit. Walk around your home and assess every entry point, thinking like a potential intruder. Look for vulnerabilities, such as old locks, weak doors, or windows that aren’t secure.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—start implementing these Home Door Security Tips today and make your home a less attractive target. For more advice or to discuss your home security needs, reach out to CJW Locksmiths for expert guidance and support.