When people are designing a new house or renovating an existing one, security is often not a priority, and sometimes it is entirely overlooked. Comfort and aesthetics tend to be at the forefront, with security features added as an afterthought. However, it is much more effective and not at all difficult to integrate security into the design of a house.
Here are some of the things you could think about when making plans for your house that will make it more secure for you and your family.
Entry points
There are a few simple things you can do to make sure entry points such as doors and windows are less vulnerable to break-ins.
When it comes to windows, there are a number of options for making them more secure, but a good place to start is by making sure that they are not made easy to enter by sheds, garages, or other flat roofs underneath them.
If this cannot be avoided, or the ground-level windows would be easy to climb into in any case, then one option is using security bars to stop intruders from getting in. However, most people find these unsightly although there are probably more options for these than you would think. Windows that cannot be opened will also work, but again these are rarely popular. What is best then is to choose secure, high-quality windows. These are windows with the following typical features:
- a tough or reinforced window pane
- reinforced hinges
- a locking system
- passive ventilation. This allows air into the house and lets humidity out even when the windows are not open.
Protecting windows is important, but it might surprise you to know that most burglars actually use the doors. They could use either the front or back, so make sure you are thinking about both. Generally, sliding glass doors tend to be a good option for light but bad for security. Stronger materials, such as aluminium door, are inherently strong and resistant to tampering efforts.
The quality of the lock that you choose also matters. Deadbolts are the most secure. If you are installing cat or dog flaps, consider choosing a modern, electronic option which will only open in response to a chip carried by your pets.
Security System
Cameras do a good job of deterring burglars, and they can also be installed to protect your home from plumbing disasters, fires, or anything else that could go wrong. If you choose this option, make sure the cameras cover any corridors that an intruder would have to use to get around inside, as well as any potential entry points.
Garden space and lighting
Holly bushes and other plants with spikes are simple yet surprisingly effective deterrents to thieves, so consider placing them below windows. You might also think about having a gravel path that allows you to hear the crunch of footsteps outside when it is quiet.
Keeping a fairly minimal garden with only small features makes sure there are few places to hide. Fences and bushes can also be used to stop would-be thieves from seeing what is inside the house. This is good for home safety because they are less likely to target you if they don’t know what they can gain from it.
