Every 106 seconds a house is burgled in the UK, so it’s no surprise that we have seen a rise of Ring doorbells and expensive security systems in the media. Being on a budget does not mean compromising quality when it comes to protecting the things and people you love. Here are some top, low-cost home security tips and tricks that you can utilise right away.

How can I secure my home without an alarm?

The foundations of a solid and safe home expand much further than internal alarm systems. Follow these quick and easy steps to improve your home safety.

• Keep access points locked: You may think that leaving the back door unlocked while you’re inside is fine, but in reality any out-of-sight entry points are just as easy access for a swift and silent burglar.
• Visible damage or wear-and-tear: Any sign of loose fittings, damaged locks or weak frames can indicate an easy entry-point. Update your locks at any signs of these on both your doors and windows.
• Keep valuables out of sight: Don’t tempt burglars with new and exciting gadgets in your front window. Keep them safe and secure away from the public’s view.
• Make it look like you are in, even when you really aren’t – lights and noise are a great deterrent for burglars. When you’re on holiday or vacant from the house for a few nights, set your television and lights on a timer.

How can I secure my home cheaply?

Plenty of cheap systems exist to help you maintain your home security. Not every piece of equipment needs to be top-of-the-range, and there are plenty of low tech security ideas available to prevent break-ins. Doing something is always better than doing nothing, as the best and most effective tools are the ones that will deter a burglary from occurring in the first place.

• Outdoor surveillance: CCTV is known to scare burglars away from the property and is a common deterrent while scoping out a building.
• Obstruct your windows: Plants, shrubbery or even gravel outside your windows and entry points makes accessing your house noisy and awkward.
• Motion detection lighting: Being able to identify when somebody is approaching your house is a must when securing your home, and raising awareness of an intruder’s presence will likely deter them from proceeding.
• Door and window alarms: These are cheap and cheerful systems that react when a window or door is opened. Much like a home security system, these will siren when somebody attempts to break in.
• Hide-a-key: Don’t hide spare keys under plant pots or doormats. The most effective hide-a-keys are away from your entry points and are likely to be fake decorations that blend with the environment of your house. 

How can I improve my door security?

Investing in new exterior doors can be a costly and timely investment. Improving your home security starts with assessing your current situation and identifying what can be improved without spending big. Start by securing your external doors. 

• Install longer screws: 3 inch screws are recommended for the installation of your doors. Embedding your screws deeper into the frame helps defend against physical break-ins.
• Make sure your hinges aren’t damaged or loose: A well placed slam or kick on your front door can easily dislodge it from its frame if not secured well enough. As well as replacing your screws, think about updating your hinges.

What are the most secure exterior doors?

Choosing the right and most secure external doors can depend on the materials used and all come in a vast range of styles. Hardwood doors are known to be the most viable option when it comes to door security; their solid core makes for a sturdy and effective barrier against physical break-ins. 

UPVC doors encase an insulated steel frame to support the foundations of the door, making them a deceptively secure choice. Other alternatives can be found in aluminium external doors – which are made from strong, inexpensive metals that are easy to treat and repair. 

Are French doors secure?

French patio doors are more secure than many perceive. A burglar is less likely to smash the glass and draw attention to themselves, or risk cutting themselves on the broken glass. There are still ways to improve your French door security on a budget, however.

Patio foot locks fasten to the inside of the door and clamp to the floor with the rail bed, making the door harder to pry and open from the outside. 

Home security does not fall beyond a little DIY and perseverance. If you’re not confident with your fittings, don’t be afraid to replace some screws and hinges. Check your locks of all windows and doors and secure, and assess the outside for any wear-and-tear.