Security is one of those facets of home ownership that is easy to overlook. A broken appliance, for example, seems much more urgent than upgrading your door locks—until the unthinkable happens, like a burglar gaining access to your home. Many people assume that if they always lock all of their doors and windows that their security is ensured, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.    

Basic Security Protection 

It’s imperative to ensure that your basic security is rock solid before you more on to additional security measures. An alarm system is much less effective if your locks are worn out or damaged, for example. Start by ensuring that the doors themselves are in good condition, and not subject to any weather-related deterioration. If any of your doors need replacing, it’s a good idea to invest in that sooner rather than later. In addition, all hinges should be facing the inside. 

By focusing on optimizing your home’s simple security, including all exterior door and window locks, you’ll create a solid foundation that keeps you, your family, and belongings as safe as possible.   

• Deadbolts: Seasoned security experts recommend that every exterior door of your home be protected by a properly functioning deadbolt. This means that the deadbolt should lock and unlock without impediment, and when engaged, the bolt should extend all the way into the plate that is fitted into the door frame. You shouldn’t be able to open the door even if you put a good amount of pressure on it when the deadbolt is engaged. If any of your home’s entry doors lack deadbolts, you should have them installed as soon as possible.
• Sliding Glass & Patio Door Locks: These vulnerable access points are frequently used by intruders, as the simple latches that are typically used are easy to thwart. There are additional locks you can add to increase the security of these entryways for an affordable price.   

Electronic Security Installations 

There are many benefits to going keyless when it comes to your home security if you have the budget to support it. If you don’t feel that manual locks and keys are adequate, or you have trouble with always misplacing your keys, electronic locks may be the right choice for your home.    

• Electronic Locks: Basic electronic locks are extremely effective at protecting your property. Although more expensive than traditional lock hardware, many homeowners find the cost worth it for the additional security this form of locks offer. 
• Keypad Locks: Most electronic locks feature a manual or digital keypad instead of a keyhole, although some have a discreet keyhole as a backup. To enter your property, you input a unique numerical passcode instead of inserting a key. This passcode can usually be changed by the owner whenever you need to, which allows you to offer a temporary passcode to service workers and other employees that need short-term access to your property. 
• Smart Locks: Smart locks have gained popularity among homeowners and renters in recent years. Smart locks can be controlled using an app on your smart phone, and access can be monitored from the same app, no matter how far you are from your home. Smart locks provide a sophisticated, stylish form of security. Some smart locks also have keypads, depending on the model. A qualified locksmith will be able to provide you with an array of different smart lock options.   

Advanced Security Solutions 

When simple manual locks and keys just won’t do, such as if you live in a high-risk neighborhood or have a great deal of valuable possessions that need more significant protection, there are advanced security solutions available at different price points to better control your security.   

• Biometric Locks: Biometric entry is an exciting, relatively recent form of advanced lock security. Instead of using a key, a biometric lock reads physical data, most commonly fingerprints, through a digital scanner which is then match to authorized entrants. 
• Access Control Systems: Access control systems focus on restricting access to your building to only those that you have specifically authorized. An access control system is an advanced form of security that’s usually reserved for businesses, but more and more affluent homeowners are choosing access control in order to guarantee that their property, family, and valuables are safe from intrusion. Access control is sometimes reinforced by physical security guards or other manual measures, such as fences, but is usually restricted to an electronic system. If you’re interested in having an electronic access control system outfitted on your 
• Surveillance Cameras: Surveillance camera technology has come a long way in the last decade, especially in the last 5 years. It’s now not only more advanced than ever, but also more affordable. A wide range of different types of cameras exit in a variety of sizes, with many customizable features, such as the ability to have live access on your smartphone no matter where you are. 
• Alarms: Alarms are available in a variety of configurations, including simple freestanding alarms that affix to specific windows and doors and sound a tone when activated if the connection is broken, to whole-house alarm systems that are monitored by an off-site, third party company. Your choice depends on multiple factors, including your residential security goals and budget. The amount of time you spend away from your home is also an important consideration, as whole house alarm systems can offer significant peace of mind if you’re frequently away from your home.