Budget-Friendly Ways To Enhance Your Home’s Security

Your home should be where you feel most at peace and safe. Locking your doors and living in a secure neighborhood can help put you at ease, but if you lack basic home security features, you might feel vulnerable. If you want to boost your home’s security but don’t have the money for a state-of-the-art surveillance system, you may wonder if there are inexpensive ways to make your home feel safer.

Budget-friendly ways to improve your home’s security include installing a video doorbell and motion-censored outdoor lights. Add smart locks and replace old hardware in your windows and doors to make them stronger. Install a door brace to prevent forced entry, install a DIY, low-cost surveillance system, or add timers to lights to deter thieves. Getting involved in your local neighborhood watch can also help you feel safer.

Improving your home’s security is a fantastic way to feel at ease, whether you’re in bed or far away on vacation. The problem is that many security companies charge expensive setup charges and monthly fees. Luckily, there are cheaper ways to make your home safer. Keep reading to learn some of the best budget-friendly ways to enhance your home’s security.

13 Ways To Improve Your Home’s Security On A Budget

1. Video Doorbell

Smart doorbells with video surveillance have surged in popularity in the last several years. These devices are easy to install and allow you to mount one or several cameras at entrances around your home. A video doorbell, like the popular Ring model, is a fantastic way to improve home security without paying outrageous monthly fees. You can get monthly subscriptions to video doorbell services for as low as $5. You can even find video doorbells that don’t require a subscription. Not only do these devices deter burglars, but they also allow you to monitor your home from your smartphone 24 hours a day.

2. Motion Detector Lights

Never underestimate the power of motion-activated lights. Outdoor lights keep your home illuminated and deter burglars and wild animals. Whenever an outdoor floodlight comes on, your entire home's exterior is visible. Not only do these lights expose potential threats, but they also alert you to movement outside. Motion sensors are inexpensive and even help you save money on your electric bill, since they only turn on when triggered by motion.

3. Smart Plugs Or Lighting Timers

Your home is far less vulnerable to break-ins when it appears someone is home. One great way to make your home look lived-in is to have timers on your lights. The cheapest way to do this is by purchasing a light timer. You can use the same type of timer you use for your Christmas lights. They are inexpensive, easy to program, and effective. Alternatively, you can start to transform your home into a smart home by adding smart plugs. These plugs let you turn your lights on and off via your smartphone, which is convenient for everyday life and also effective at deterring burglars.

4. Secure Your Doors

One of the best ways to make your home safer is to ensure all your entrances are as secure as possible. If you’re on a tight budget but want your home to be as safe as possible, then start by inspecting your doors.  Ensure they lock properly, and check for any easy ways to unlock them or break through. When you find vulnerabilities, repair them immediately. A strong door is a major deterrent for those seeking to enter your home unlawfully.

5. Install Smart Locks

Smart locks are another modern home security device that adds safety and convenience for homeowners. These door locks use a keypad and Wi-Fi, allowing you to lock and unlock your door with a smartphone. Many of these locks also include cameras, providing an extra layer of reassurance and protection against home invasion. Best of all, these locks eliminate the need to make copies of your key or hide a spare somewhere on your property.

6. Inquire About A Local Neighborhood Watch

A nosy neighbor can be annoying, but they can also help keep your home very safe. If you’re worried about your home’s security but can’t afford an advanced security system, then inquire about your local neighborhood watch.  These groups are present in neighborhoods in North America and are highly effective at preventing criminal activity in your community. If your street doesn't have a watch, then you can start one yourself. Alternatively, find one or two neighbors you like and trust, and ask them to keep a close eye on your home, especially when you’re away on vacation.

7. Strengthen Your Windows

Many criminals opt to enter homes through a window rather than a front door, as they are made of glass and less likely to have surveillance. Do all you can to strengthen your windows and protect them against break-ins. One easy way to strengthen your windows is to add secondary locks, such as pin locks or wooden dowels. Or, you can add security film, which will make your windows stronger and harder to break.

8. Swap Out Old Hardware For New, Stronger Versions

Hardware in your home gets weaker over time. If you’ve never replaced or inspected your locks, hinges, and other entryway hardware, then you should do so immediately. Start by replacing the old screws and strike plates with thicker, stronger ones. Check your hinges and other door and window hardware, and make improvements wherever you can.  

9. Invest In Budget-Friendly Security Cameras

Just because private security companies charge an arm and a leg for security systems, it doesn’t mean a security system is out of reach when your funds are limited. There are many surveillance systems you can purchase at wholesale clubs and online for less than $500 that will vastly improve your home’s security. They often come with multiple weatherproof cameras you can place throughout your property, and you can watch the footage live on your smartphone.

10. Install A Door Brace And Bars On Windows

If you live in an area where home invasions are common, then you should take extra precautions to protect your home. A door brace is a great way to strengthen your exterior doors and make them more impenetrable. If you’re worried about people breaking your windows and entering your home, then consider adding security bars to your windows, especially those located at ground level. If most of your neighbors already have these features, it’s a good idea to follow their lead.

11. Clean Up Your Landscape To Make Your Home Visible

Home landscaping is a great way to improve your house’s curb appeal, but too many tall plants on your property can leave your home vulnerable to burglary. Tidying up your landscaping not only makes your yard look cleaner, but it can also make your home less susceptible to break-ins. If you have hedges or bushes near your house, keep them trimmed, especially those near windows. The better your home can be seen by others, the harder it is for potential criminals to hide from sight.

12. Add A Security System Sign

One easy, cheap, and surprisingly effective way to make your home feel safer is to install a visible security system sign. You might not be able to afford a home security system, but criminals don’t need to know this. Display a security system sign that’s clearly visible on your property. The sign alone might be enough to make criminals think twice before breaking into your house.

13. Make It Appear As Though You Have A Guard Dog

Dogs make great companions and even better security alarms. These pets are often great at barking and alerting their owners when someone is outside the home. Even small dogs are effective at keeping burglars at bay. If you don’t own a dog, you can find ways to make it seem like you do. Place a dog bowl near the front entrance, or install a “beware of dog” sign outside your home. Even the suggestion of a dangerous canine can make your home safer.

Summing Up Budget-Friendly Ways To Improve Your Home’s Security

You can’t put a price on safety, but unfortunately, many home security systems are too expensive for homeowners on a tight budget. While the most advanced systems might be out of reach, you can buy DIY security systems, video doorbells, and smart locks that dramatically enhance security on your property.

Strengthen your doors and windows, and trim your landscaping so it’s easy to see your property. Inquire about your local neighborhood watch and install motion-activated lights outside your home.

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