Is it possible to burglar-proof your home without spending a dime? Home burglaries can happen anytime, anywhere. As a homeowner, you want to do everything possible to deter burglars and prevent break-ins. But security systems, cameras, motion sensors, and other high-tech gadgets can be expensive.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Make sure all your doors and windows have sturdy locks. Keep curtains closed at night. Install inexpensive driveway alarms. Get a dog or put up ‘beware of dog’ signs. And keep lights on timers when you’re away.
In this comprehensive guide, we provide over 25 tips to improve home security and deter burglars without spending any money. Read on to learn clever ways to fortify doors, secure windows, create the illusion of someone’s home, and more using common household items.
Fortify Exterior Doors
When it comes to burglar-proofing your home, one of the first areas to focus on is the exterior doors. By fortifying your doors, you can greatly enhance the security of your home without spending a dime. Here are some simple yet effective ways to fortify your exterior doors:
Install longer screws in strike plate
One common weak point of a door is the strike plate, which is the metal plate that the door latch secures into. By replacing the short screws that typically come with the strike plate with longer screws, you can reinforce the door frame and make it more resistant to forced entry.
Using screws that are at least three inches long will provide added strength.
Use sliding door, jammer bar
Sliding glass doors are a popular target for burglars due to their vulnerability. To secure your sliding doors, consider using a jammer bar. This adjustable bar is placed in the track of the door and prevents it from being forced open.
It provides an extra layer of protection and can give you peace of mind knowing that your sliding doors are more secure.
By fortifying your exterior doors using these simple techniques, you can significantly enhance the security of your home without spending any money. Remember, even small steps can make a big difference in deterring burglars and keeping your home safe.
Secure Windows
When it comes to burglar-proofing your home, securing your windows is crucial. Here are some effective and cost-free ways to make your windows more secure:
Place wooden dowels in windows
Windows is another vulnerable point of entry for burglars. An inexpensive and effective way to reinforce your windows is by using wooden dowels. Simply cut the dowels to the appropriate length and place them in the track of the window to prevent them from being opened from the outside.
This creates an additional barrier that can deter burglars from attempting to break in. Wooden dowels are readily available at hardware stores and can be easily installed without any special tools or skills.
Pin windows shut
One simple and effective way to secure your windows is by pinning them shut. This can be done by placing a wooden dowel or a metal pin in the window frame to prevent it from being opened from the outside. This method is especially useful for ground-floor windows or windows that are easily accessible.
Install window film
Another great option to enhance the security of your windows is by installing window film. Window film is a thin, transparent material that is applied to the glass surface of your windows. It not only provides added privacy but also makes it more difficult for burglars to break the glass.
In case of an attempted break-in, the window film holds the shattered glass together, making it harder for the intruder to gain entry.
Remember, securing your windows is just one part of a comprehensive home security plan. It’s important to combine these measures with other security practices such as installing deadbolt locks, reinforcing doors, and having a reliable home security system.
By taking these simple steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in and protect your home and loved ones.
Create the Illusion Home is Occupied
One of the most effective ways to burglar-proof your home without spending any money is by creating the illusion that your home is occupied, even when it’s not. This simple strategy can deter potential burglars who may be scouting for empty houses to target. Here are some easy steps you can take:
Place TV or radios on timers
By placing your TV or radio on timers, you can mimic the sounds and flickering lights of a typical occupied home. Set the timers to turn on during the evening hours when you would normally be at home.
This will give the impression that someone is inside, making it less likely for burglars to attempt a break-in.
Keep some lights on timers
In addition to the TV and radios, it’s also a good idea to put some lights on timers. This will create the illusion that someone is moving around the house, further deterring potential burglars. Set the timers to turn on and off at different intervals throughout the evening to make it seem more realistic.
Have mail and packages picked up
A pile of mail or packages on your doorstep is a clear sign that no one is home. If you’re planning to be away for an extended period, make arrangements to have your mail and packages picked up. You can ask a neighbor or a trusted friend to collect them for you.
This will help maintain the appearance that someone is still living in the house.
Ask neighbors to park in the driveway
If you have friendly neighbors who are willing to help, ask them to park their car in your driveway while you’re away. This gives the impression that someone is home and can discourage burglars from targeting your house. In return, you can offer to do the same for them when they go on vacation.
By implementing these simple strategies, you can create the illusion that your home is occupied and significantly reduce the risk of a break-in. Remember, it’s all about making your house an unattractive target for burglars. Stay safe!
Deter Access to Home
When it comes to burglar-proofing your home, one of the first things you can do is to deter access. By taking simple steps to make your home less appealing or more difficult to enter, you can greatly reduce the risk of a break-in.
Here are some effective ways to deter access to your home without spending a dime:
Trim bushes and trees around doors/windows
Overgrown bushes and trees can provide cover for potential burglars, making it easier for them to approach your home without being noticed. By regularly trimming your bushes and trees, you eliminate potential hiding spots and increase the visibility around your doors and windows.
This simple step can go a long way in deterring burglars.
Install inexpensive driveway alarms
Installing driveway alarms can be an effective way to deter burglars from even approaching your home. These alarms are inexpensive and easy to install. They work by detecting motion in your driveway and sending an alert to let you know if someone is approaching.
This not only helps to deter burglars but also provides you with an early warning system.
Get a dog or beware of dog sign
Dogs can be great deterrents to burglars. Their presence alone can make burglars think twice before attempting to break into your home. If you don’t have a dog, you can still create the illusion of having one by putting up a “Beware of Dog” sign.
This can make potential burglars think twice before targeting your home.
Improve exterior lighting
A well-lit exterior can make your home less attractive to burglars. Install outdoor lights near your doors, windows, and other vulnerable areas. Motion sensor lights can be particularly effective as they will illuminate any movement around your home, alerting you and potentially scaring away intruders.
Additionally, keeping your porch light on during the night can also be a deterrent.
Remember, even small and inexpensive changes can make a big difference when it comes to deterring access to your home. By implementing these simple steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of a break-in without spending a dime.
Secure Outbuildings and Garages
When it comes to burglar-proofing your home, don’t forget about securing your outbuildings and garages. These areas often contain valuable items such as tools, bikes, and even vehicles, making them attractive targets for thieves.
Here are some tips to help you secure your sheds and garages without spending a dime:
Lock ladders and tools in shed/garage
One simple and effective step you can take is to lock up ladders and tools inside your shed or garage. Leaving these items out in the open can make it easier for burglars to access your home. By securing them, you make it more difficult for intruders to gain entry and potentially deter them from targeting your property in the first place.
Install hasps/padlocks on shed/garage doors
Another free and easy way to enhance the security of your outbuildings and garages is by installing hasps and padlocks on the doors. These simple devices provide an additional layer of protection by reinforcing the locking mechanism.
Make sure to choose high-quality locks and install them correctly to maximize their effectiveness.
Disable automatic garage door opener
If you have an automatic garage door opener, consider disabling it when you’re not using it. Some burglars have found ways to intercept the signal and gain access to homes. By disconnecting the opener or using a lock to secure the release mechanism, you can prevent unauthorized individuals from opening your garage door and potentially gaining entry to your home.
Remember, securing your outbuildings and garages is an important part of overall home security. By implementing these simple measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of burglary and protect your valuable possessions.
Burglar-Proof Your Home Without Spending A Dime – Conclusion
So as you see it is possible to burglar-proof your home without spending a dime, or at least staying on the budget. Burglary can happen anytime, but there are many inexpensive precautions you can take to reduce the risk. By following the clever tips in this guide, you can burglar-proof your home without spending any money.
Taking simple preventive measures like fortifying doors and windows, deterring access, and creating the illusion of occupancy will go a long way toward keeping your home safe from break-ins.
