Your Home Exterior and Home Security

When most people think of redoing their home’s exterior, they are doing it for looks, resale value, or maybe energy savings. There is another added benefit that a lot of people don’t think about, home security. Adding security to your home will increase resale value and curb appeal while also keeping your family and belongings safe. Here are some home exterior projects to up your security to add to your to-do list.

1. Trim your landscaping

Cleaning up your landscaping not only makes your house look better, but it will cut down on any potential hiding spots. The more visible your home is to neighbors, the less likely a burglar will see it as a target, this is especially important for bushes that cover windows or back doors.

2. Rethink your fencing

Privacy fences are nice, but they can actually be targeted by potential home intruders. Privacy fences can provide potential hiding spots. A chain link fence can secure your yard for pets and children without providing a prime target for burglars.

3. Upgrade your door

One of the most common entry points for burglars is the front door. Upgrading to a newer, nicer door will provide an aesthetic boost to your home, help on energy costs, as well as upping your home security. New doors can be expensive, especially if you are wanting a secure energy efficient one, so a cheaper option may be to just upgrade your locks. You most likely have a standard deadbolt lock on your front door. There are many options you can choose to upgrade it, including longer, stronger screws when installing the lock.

4. Upgrade windows

Apart from the front door, first floor windows are one of the most common entry points for a home invader. Either upgrade you windows or upgrade your locks. If you have sliding windows or a sliding glass door, consider using a window or door stop. Locks on windows and glass doors can be fragile, so putting a sturdy piece of wood to stop the window or door can stop intruders.

5. Install exterior lights

Nothing deters a burglar more than well-lit areas. Install motion sensor lights on your garage or back patio, or anywhere that would provide a hiding spot for burglars.

You and your family’s safety is your number one concern, and if you can upgrade your home security while upping your resale value and curb appeal then it’s a win-win situation.