Feeling secure in your own home is a fundamental right, but in today’s economic climate and high burglary rates, the thought of costly security systems can be daunting for those of us without the disposable income to invest.
The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to improve your home security. SheffLOCK offers a fantastic array of low cost security options that can all help deter those unwanted intruders.
In this week’s blog, we explore some of the low cost home security options that SheffLOCK offers, along with some useful advice too.
1. The Foundation: Strong Window and Door Locks
Before considering any smart home security systems, let’s talk about the absolute bedrock of home security: your existing locks. A surprising number of burglaries occur through unlocked or poorly secured windows and doors.
- Check Your Existing Locks: Walk around your home and assess every window and door. Do they feel sturdy? Are the locks in good working order?
- External Doors: Ensure all external doors (front, back, patio) need to have anti-snap locks installed to deter intruders from breaking in.
- UPVC Doors: Most modern UPVC doors come with multi-point locking mechanisms. Regularly check these for smooth operation and ensure all locking points engage correctly.
- Windows: Look for key-operated window locks, especially on ground-floor windows and those easily accessible from flat roofs or conservatories.
- Upgrade Where Necessary: If your current locks feel flimsy or are very old, invest in replacements. SheffLOCK can advise on the best options for your specific doors and windows. This is a one-off cost that provides long-term security.
2. Sash Jammers: Your Simple, Yet Mighty, Reinforcement
If you’re looking for an incredibly effective and low-cost way to beef up your window and door security, look no further than sash jammers. These simple, yet ingenious devices are a game-changer for your home security, especially those with UPVC windows and doors.
- What are they? A sash jammer is a small, typically metal or high-impact plastic arm that pivots or slides to block the opening of a window or door. They are designed to prevent the sash (the opening part of the window or door) from being forced open, even if the main lock is compromised.
- Why are they so effective? They add an extra, independent layer of security. Even if a burglar manages to defeat your primary lock, the sash jammer will prevent the window or door from opening. They are incredibly difficult to bypass from the outside.
- Cost: Sash jammers are remarkably affordable, and we can install them for you quickly and cost-effectively.
3. Door and Window Alarms: The Affordable Audible Deterrent
For a relatively small investment, you can add an immediate audible deterrent to your entry points.
- Door/Window Contact Alarms: These small, battery-operated devices attach to a window or door frame and the opening part. When the contact is broken (i.e., the window or door is opened), a loud alarm sounds.
- Benefits: Inexpensive, easy to install (often with adhesive backing), and highly effective at startling intruders and alerting occupants.
- Vibration Sensors: Similar to contact alarms, these detect vibrations caused by attempted forced entry (e.g., smashing glass or prying a window).
4. Visual Deterrents: Sending a Clear Message
Sometimes, simply looking secure is enough to make a burglar move on to an easier target.
- Dummy Alarm Boxes: A highly visible, professional-looking dummy alarm box mounted on the exterior of your property can be a powerful psychological deterrent. They cost very little and require no maintenance.
- “Protected by Alarm/CCTV” Signage: Displaying signs indicating your property is protected (even if your actual system is basic) can make a would-be intruder think twice.
- Security Lighting: Motion-activated security lights are fantastic for illuminating dark areas around your home – front door, back garden, side alleyways. A sudden burst of light is often enough to send a burglar scrambling. LED options are energy-efficient and affordable.
5. Simple Habits & Upgrades: The Everyday Security Boost
- Timer Plugs: Make it look like someone’s always home, even when you’re out. Use simple timer plugs (or smart plugs if you prefer) to turn lights, and even a radio, on and off at varying times.
- Gravel Driveways/Paths: The crunch of gravel underfoot is an excellent, low-tech way to alert you to approaching visitors (wanted or unwanted).
- Trim Hedges and Bushes: Don’t provide cover for burglars. Keep hedges and bushes around windows and doors trimmed back so they don’t offer hiding spots.
Building Your Layered, Low-Cost Security Strategy
The key to effective home security on a budget is to create layers of protection. Don’t rely on just one thing.
- Start with the basics: Ensure all your primary locks are robust and in good working order.
- Add physical reinforcements: Install sash jammers on accessible windows and doors.
- Include audible deterrents: Fit contact or vibration alarms on vulnerable entry points.
- Embrace visual deterrents: Use dummy alarm boxes, security lighting, and signage.
- Practise good habits: Always lock up, use timer plugs, and keep your garden tidy.
By combining these low cost home security options, you can significantly enhance your home’s security, deter potential intruders, and gain invaluable peace of mind, all without blowing your budget. Your home can be a haven, even on a budget. Contact SheffLOCK for a FREE Home Security Survey.
SheffLOCK: Sheffield Locksmiths – Securing Your Home, Safeguarding Your Peace of Mind.