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The Importance of Securing Your Windows and Sliding Doors
The safety and security of your home are essential, and securing your windows and sliding doors is a crucial step in protecting your family from intruders. According to the FBI, burglars break into homes every 26 seconds, which means that you can never be too careful when it comes to home security. Burglars often target windows and sliding doors because they are often left unlocked or easy to pry open.
Windows, in particular, are one of the most vulnerable entry points in a home since they’re fragile enough for intruders to break easily. They also provide an unobstructed view inside your house for passerby’s that may want to scope out your belongings.
Sliding doors pose an additional risk since they’re known for being more flimsy than traditional doors. As such, ensuring that your windows and sliding doors have adequate locks will give you peace of mind while deterring potential intruders.
However, many homeowners don’t realize how expensive it can be to install custom-made security systems on all their windows or sliding doors. Fortunately, there are several affordable ways you can secure these entry points yourself.
You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on home security systems or contact a professional locksmith every time you need secure locks installed on your windows or sliding doors. There are simple yet effective “hacks” that you can do yourself! This article will explore practical strategies that anyone can use to secure their windows and sliding doors without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some low-cost methods such as window films – which reinforce glass by making them shatterproof – as well as adding pins or locks designed specifically for your window type. We also cover ways to secure sliding doors, such as placing metal bars in the track, installing security bars and pin locks.
Not to mention, we’ll provide additional tips on how to keep your home safer in general like keeping bushes trimmed away from windows and doors, using motion-sensor lights outside your home, and investing in a home security system. So let’s get started with these simple hacks that can help protect your home!
Assessing Your Windows and Sliding Doors
Identifying Weak Spots in Your Home’s Windows and Sliding Doors
Before you can start securing your windows and sliding doors, you need to assess where they are vulnerable. Start by inspecting each window and door individually. Check for any cracks in the glass or gaps between the frame and the wall.
These weak spots can be an easy entry point for a potential intruder. Another thing to look for is how easily the window or door can be opened from outside.
Most sliding doors have a lock that only secures one side of the door, leaving the other side vulnerable. Test each of your windows and doors from outside to see if they can be opened without a key or lock.
Don’t forget to check any basement windows or skylights as well. These areas are often neglected but can be an easy entrance for someone trying to break into your home.
Understanding the Types of Locks Available for Each Type of Window or Door
Once you’ve identified weak spots in your windows and sliding doors, it’s time to consider what types of locks would work best for each opening. There are several different types of locks available, so it’s important to understand which ones will work best with your specific type of window or door. For sliding glass doors, there are two main types of locks: foot bolts and security bars.
Foot bolts attach at either end of the bottom track of the door, preventing it from being opened without unlocking them first. Security bars attach on either side of the track and prevent an intruder from forcing open the door even if they manage to get past the lock.
For double-hung windows, there are several options including sash locks, pins, and key locks. Sash locks attach on either side of one sash (the moveable part), preventing it from being opened without unlocking the lock.
Pins can be installed on the top of the bottom sash to prevent it from being opened, while still allowing for ventilation. Key locks are another option, but they can be easily picked or forced open.
For casement windows, there are several different types of locks available including casement fasteners and cam locks. Casement fasteners attach on either side of the window frame and clip together in the middle, holding the window in place.
Cam locks attach on one side of the window frame and lock into a cam on the other side, securing the window closed. Understanding which types of locks work best for each type of window or door is crucial for securing your home properly.
Simple Hacks for Securing Windows
Installing Window Film to Reinforce Glass
Windows are often the most vulnerable entry points in a home, as glass can easily be shattered or broken. However, you can reinforce your windows by adding a security window film. This thick film adheres to the inside of the window and makes it much more difficult to break through.
It not only prevents burglars from gaining easy access but also helps to prevent injury from flying glass in case of an accidental break. When choosing a security film, ensure that it’s rated for impact and shatter resistance.
The thickness of the film itself doesn’t necessarily determine its effectiveness, but rather its adhesive strength. When installed correctly, security window film can significantly increase the strength of your windows and make them less likely targets for intruders.
Adding Window Pins or Locks to Prevent Forced Entry
Another simple hack is installing window pins or locks as an additional layer of protection against forced entry. These devices attach directly onto the sash and frame of a sliding or hung window and prevent them from being opened beyond a certain point.
Pin locks are similar to pegs that insert into holes drilled into the sash while sliding locks install onto tracks on both sides of the sash. Both options offer effective protection against forced entry and are relatively inexpensive compared to more advanced locking systems.
Using a Wooden Dowel or Broom Handle as a Makeshift Lock
If you’re on a tight budget or looking for an immediate solution before investing in proper locks, using makeshift options like wooden dowels or broom handles can still be effective at securing your windows. To use this hack, simply measure the length between your window frame and sliding panel when closed and cut down your dowel so that it fits snugly between them when inserted vertically. This will effectively prevent the window from being opened from the outside.
You can also use the broom handle hack for sliding windows and doors, inserting it into the track to prevent movement when closed. Making use of these simple hacks can go a long way in improving your home’s security by securing windows against forced entry and break-ins.
Simple Hacks for Securing Sliding Doors
Sliding doors can provide a beautiful view of the outdoors and easy access to your home, but they can also be a security risk if not properly secured. Fortunately, there are several simple hacks you can use to secure your sliding doors and keep intruders out.
Placing a Metal Bar in the Track
One of the easiest ways to secure a sliding door is by placing a metal bar in the track. This will prevent the door from being able to slide open, even if someone manages to remove or bypass the lock.
Simply measure the track and cut a metal bar or piece of wood to fit snugly inside it. Place this bar in the track when you want to secure your door.
Installing a Security Bar on the Inside Track
Another option for securing your sliding door is by installing a security bar on the inside track. This is similar to placing a metal bar in the track, but it’s an actual device designed specifically for this purpose.
The security bar should be adjustable so that it fits tightly between both sides of the frame when extended. Installing this device requires some basic DIY skills, as you’ll need to drill holes into your frame and attach mounting brackets for it.
Adding a Pin Lock
A pin lock is another simple hack that can help keep your sliding door secured and prevent it from being lifted off its tracks. To install one, you’ll need to create two small holes – one in both sides of the frame – at about knee height where they won’t interfere with opening or closing your door normally. Then insert hinge pins through these holes so that they extend past both sides of each hole by about half an inch.
Simply insert small padlocks through these hinge pins on either side of your doorframe which will prevent anyone from lifting the door off its track. This is an effective way to add extra security to your sliding door with minimal effort.
Conclusion
Sliding doors are a popular feature in many homes, but they can be a security risk if not properly secured. By using one or more of these simple hacks, you can help keep your home safe and secure.
Whether you choose to place a metal bar in the track, install a security bar on the inside track, or add a pin lock, these quick and easy solutions can provide added protection against intruders. Try them out today and enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that your home is secure.
Other Tips for Home Security
Keeping bushes trimmed away from windows and doors
While it’s important to focus on securing your windows and sliding doors, there are other measures you can take to improve the overall security of your home. One simple yet often overlooked step is keeping bushes and other vegetation trimmed away from windows and doors. Overgrown plants provide an easy hiding place for potential intruders, giving them cover while they attempt to gain entry into your home.
To prevent this, be sure to regularly trim back any bushes or shrubs that are growing near windows or doors. This will not only make it more difficult for intruders to hide, but will also improve visibility around the perimeter of your home.
Using motion-sensor lights outside your home
Another effective way to deter intruders is by installing motion-sensor lights outside your home. These lights are triggered by movement, flooding the area with bright light and alerting you to any potential threats. When it comes to selecting a location for these lights, consider placing them near areas where someone may try to enter your home undetected, such as around dark corners or near secluded entry points.
Investing in a home security system
If you’re serious about protecting your home and family, investing in a professional security system is one of the best steps you can take. There are many different types of systems available on the market today, ranging from simple DIY options to more advanced setups that require professional installation. At minimum, look for a system that includes door and window sensors as well as motion detectors.
Many systems also offer additional features such as video monitoring and remote access via smartphone apps. Ultimately, the investment in a security system will provide peace of mind knowing that you have taken every possible measure to keep your loved ones safe from harm.
Conclusion
While securing your windows and sliding doors is certainly important, it’s just one piece of the overall puzzle when it comes to home security. By taking steps such as keeping bushes trimmed back, installing motion-sensor lights, and investing in a quality security system, you can greatly reduce the risk of break-ins and keep your family safe. Remember that each layer of protection you add makes it more difficult for intruders to gain entry, so don’t hesitate to take these additional steps toward a safer home.
Conclusion
We’ve covered a lot today, but let’s quickly recap some of the simple hacks you can use to secure your windows and sliding doors. First, assess your windows and sliding doors to identify any weak spots or areas in need of reinforcement.
Then, try installing window film, adding window pins or locks, or using a wooden dowel to prevent forced entry. For securing sliding doors, use a metal bar or security bar on the inside track or add a pin lock to keep the door from being lifted off its track.
In addition to these simple hacks, there are also other tips for home security that can help keep you safe. Keep bushes trimmed away from windows and doors, use motion sensor lights outside your home, and consider investing in a home security system for added protection.
Reiteration of Importance of Securing Windows and Sliding Doors:
It’s important to reiterate why securing your windows and sliding doors is so crucial. Home break-ins are unfortunately common occurrences that can happen even in safe neighborhoods. By taking steps to secure your home’s entry points like windows and sliding doors with these simple hacks we’ve discussed today, you’re taking proactive steps towards keeping yourself and your family safe.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – take action now to prevent potential intruders from entering your home through an unlocked window or sliding door. Whether it’s installing window film or adding pin locks to your sliding glass patio door – every little bit helps when it comes to improving the safety and security of your home!
