With burglary statistics on the rise (249,092 reported incidents in England & Wales alone in 2023), it’s no wonder many people worry about their home security, especially during the dark evenings, with over a third of burglaries occurring between 6pm and midnight. Imagine a peaceful night’s sleep, knowing your home and family are protected. This requires a good level of security. Home security isn’t just about deterring break-ins, it’s about peace of mind. This guide offers a range of top tips and solutions to make your home a fortress. Feeling safe and secure at home starts here.
What steps can I take to make my home more secure?
Deterrence is key. Security lighting with motion sensors illuminates dark entry points, making your home less inviting. Consider a comprehensive security system with a security camera or CCTV cameras (real or dummy) for extra security and an alarm system for added deterrence. A burglar is less likely to target a home they believe is being monitored. Maintain a lived-in look when you’re away. Use timers to switch lights and TVs on and off at intervals and ask a trusted neighbour to collect mail and keep an eye on things. Intruders typically target doors and windows. Ensure all external doors are strong with secure locks. All windows should have multi-point locking mechanisms and consider window restrictors to prevent them from fully opening from outside. Ensure your fences, garden gates, patio doors and garage door are in good condition and closed securely for another great deterrent. For added privacy, consider adding climbing plants to trellises, but avoid anything that could obscure visibility around your property.
Should I invest in modern windows and doors?
All external doors and windows should be made from a sturdy material and have secure, multi-point locking mechanisms. If that is not the case, then upgrading to modern windows and doors is the best option. Modern windows and doors are constructed from robust materials like reinforced uPVC, making them significantly more difficult to break through, and feature multi-point locking mechanisms that engage at multiple points along the frame to provide superior security compared to traditional single-point locks. Upgrading to modern windows and doors also offers long-term benefits beyond security. They enhance energy efficiency, reduce noise, and come in a variety of styles.
Upgrade your windows for unmatched security
Old windows are an easy target for intruders. Modern replacements offer a significant security upgrade for your home and are an effective way to deter thieves.
High-performance materials
uPVC and aluminium frames are incredibly durable, resisting harsh weather and wear and tear. This makes them significantly more difficult to break through compared to older windows.
Multi-point locking systems
Modern windows distribute locking points across the entire frame, offering superior security compared to traditional single-point locks.
Reinforced frames
Multi-layered beaded frames won’t weaken under pressure, further deterring break-in attempts.
High-quality hardware
Modern windows come equipped with robust handle locks and shoot bolt locks, adding another layer of defence.
Glazing options
Double glazing provides an extra layer of security compared to single glazing, while Comfort Glass features a special built-in transparent layer that’s exceptionally strong and resistant to forced entry, offering unmatched protection for your home.
What are the best doors for security?
Old, worn-out front doors and back doors are an open invitation for intruders to try to gain easy entry into your home. Upgrading to a modern, sturdier option is a good idea as it significantly enhances your home’s security to provide you with greater peace of mind.
Go beyond uPVC and aluminium
While these are great options, consider composite doors. They combine the strength of uPVC with the aesthetics of timber. Their thick foam core, covered in Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), creates an exceptionally robust barrier.
Advanced locking systems
Modern doors come equipped with multi-point locking mechanisms, engaging at several points for superior security compared to traditional single locks.
Industry-leading technology
Look for doors with anti-bump, anti-snap, and anti-pick technology, making them virtually impenetrable to common break-in methods.
Additional options
For extra peace of mind, consider night latches and security chains for further reinforcement.
Toughened or laminated glass
These advanced safety glasses offer an extra layer of protection. They’re not only highly secure but also shatter-resistant, minimizing the risk of injury in case of accidental impact.
What else can I do to help keep my home secure?
Beyond physical security measures, there are everyday habits you can adopt to further deter break-ins and give you even greater peace of mind. Always lock doors and windows, even when you’re home. Don’t answer the doorbell and open the door to strangers, use a door chain or peephole first. Make sure you keep valuables out of sight and avoid posting updates about holidays or when you are away on the internet and social media.
FineLine: Your partner in home security
At FineLine, we take home security seriously and updating your windows and doors is an easy way to make your home more secure. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of high-performance uPVC and aluminium windows, and composite, uPVC and aluminium doors, designed to keep your home safe and secure.
Unmatched security
Our windows and doors are PAS 24 standard certified, exceeding strict building regulations for security. They’re constructed from robust materials and incorporate multi-point locking systems for ultimate protection.
Low maintenance, lasting beauty
Enjoy the peace of mind of exceptional security without the hassle. Our windows and doors are designed for long-lasting performance and require minimal maintenance, while still offering a variety of styles and colours to complement your home’s aesthetics.
Choose FineLine for superior secure windows and doors
Our experienced team can advise you on the best replacement windows and doors for your home, ensuring you find the perfect combination of security, aesthetics, and functionality. Contact FineLine today for a free consultation, or visit one of our state-of-the-art showrooms to have a closer look at our product ranges, and let us help you create a more secure and comfortable home environment.