During 2023, England & Wales’s police forces received 249,092 crime reports about burglary. And according to government data, over a third of domestic burglaries are committed between 6pm and midnight, when it it’s dark or the light is fading.
Feeling safe and secure in your own home is paramount. So, taking steps to deter potential intruders and protect your property and family is essential. This guide offers a range of tips and solutions to help you improve your home security and give you peace of mind.
What are the simple steps I can take to enhance security?
Deterrence is the key to making an intruder think twice about trying to break into your home, and there are several steps you can take to help make sure this happens and your property is safe. here are our top tips:
Visible deterrents
Security lighting with motion sensors illuminates dark entry points, making your home less appealing to burglars. Consider installing a security system, such as a security camera or CCTV cameras (real or dummy) and a security alarm system to act as a further deterrent.
Strong boundaries
Ensure your fences and garden gates are secure and in good condition. Consider adding trellis or climbing plants for privacy without compromising visibility.
Maintain a lived-in look
If you’re going away, it is a good idea to use timers to switch lights and TVs on and off at intervals to create the illusion of occupancy. This is a great deterrent for thieves. Ask a neighbour to collect mail and keep an eye on your property.
Securing entry points
Intruders are most likely to get in through front doors and windows, so ensure all your external doors are made from a strong material and have secure locks. French doors and patio doors can also be vulnerable points for easy entry, so make sure they have locking mechanisms that are completely secure. Ensure all your windows have multi-point locking mechanisms and consider installing window restrictors to prevent them from being fully opened from the outside.
Should I replace my windows and doors?
Upgrading your windows and front and back doors to modern replacements is a significant investment that offers long-term benefits, including improved energy efficiency and noise reduction. The main benefit, however, is that they are an effective way to provide extra security. Modern windows and doors are constructed from robust materials like reinforced uPVC, making them significantly more difficult to break through, and feature multi-point locking mechanisms that engage at multiple points along the frame to provide superior security compared to traditional single-point locks.
The best windows for security
If your windows are old, then replacing them with modern alternatives is a good way enhance the security of your home.
Material
High-performance materials such as uPVC and aluminium provide durable frames and robust protection for your home.
Security
Modern windows will come with innovative multi-point locking systems as standard, multi-layered beaded frames that won’t weaken to harsh forces, high-quality handle locks and shoot bolt locks.
Glazing
Double glazing will provide an extra layer of security if replacing single, while toughened glazing such as Comfort Glass features a robust built-in transparent layer that makes it much tougher to break than standard double glazing, providing unrivalled strength from forced entry.
The best doors for security
Old external doors with worn hinges and frames will be a target for intruders, so replacing them with sturdier, modern alternatives will keep your home more protected.
Material
As well as high-performance uPVC and aluminium, you can also choose a replacement composite door. They combine the best of uPVC and timber and are made from a thick foam core that is covered in Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), making them more robust.
Security
Modern doors will incorporate industry-leading security and locking features, including multi-point locking mechanisms and anti-bump, anti-snap, and anti-pick technology, for added security. Additional options can include night-latches and security chains.
Glazing
Toughened glass or laminated glass such as Comfort glass acts as an advanced safety glass and is perfect for adding another level of security and safety to a home.
Secure uPVC and aluminium windows and doors from SEH BAC
At SEH BAC, we pride ourselves on offering the very best uPVC doors and windows. Available in a comprehensive range of styles and colours, they have now only been designed for long-lasting performance and require very little maintenance, but they provide ultra security. Tested to PAS 24 as standard, our windows are fitted with several high-tech window safety locks to ensure they exceed strict building regulations, while our range of doors are fitted with Yale multi-point door locks for the highest door security levels on the market.
What else can I do to keep intruders at bay?
As well as securing your home with the methods already mentioned, establishing good habits will also mean you are less likely to fall victim to a burglary.
Lock it up!
Develop the habit of always locking your doors and windows, even when you’re at home.
Beware of who you let in
Don’t open the door to strangers – use a door chain or peephole to identify them first.
Secure valuables
Keep valuables such as jewellery, money, and important documents out of sight.
Be mindful of social media
Avoid posting updates about holidays or absences on social media, as this can alert potential burglars to your empty home.
SEH BAC: Your partner in home security
At SEH BAC, we understand the importance of feeling safe and secure in your home. We offer a wide range of high-quality windows and doors that have all been designed with security in mind. Our experienced team can advise you on the best security solutions for your home, ensuring you find the perfect combination of security, aesthetics, and functionality.
Contact SEH BAC today for a free consultation and let us help you create a more secure and comfortable home environment.
