How to Secure Your Home: A Complete Guide

How to Secure Your Home: A Complete Guide

Securing your home in a busy city like London is more important than ever. With thousands of residential burglaries reported each year across the capital, taking proactive steps to protect your property should be a top priority.

At Locksmith CO, we understand that peace of mind begins with strong, reliable security at every entry point. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you reinforce your doors, windows, and locks—the three critical components of home security.

Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, the following strategies will help you enhance the safety of your property and protect what matters most.

Reinforcing Your Doors – The First Line of Defence

Your exterior doors are the primary barrier between your home and potential intruders. A poorly secured or outdated door can be an easy target, regardless of how sophisticated the rest of your security system is.

1. Choose Solid Core or Composite Doors

Hollow doors or those made from lightweight materials are easy to kick in or damage. For optimal security, we recommend installing solid wood, metal, or composite doors, which are far more durable and resistant to forced entry.

2. Upgrade to British Standard Locks

Ensure that your door locks meet the BS3621 British Standard. These locks are tested for strength, durability, and resistance to drilling, picking, or forced entry. A BS3621-certified deadlock or sash lock is a must-have for external doors in London.

3. Install a Deadbolt Lock

A 5-lever deadbolt lock adds an extra layer of protection. Unlike a spring bolt, a deadbolt cannot be easily pushed back and requires a key to open. It’s one of the most effective ways to reinforce a standard front door.

4. Fit a Door Chain or Bar

For additional security when answering the door, install a door chain or security bar. This allows you to speak to visitors without fully opening the door, reducing your exposure to potential scams or threats.

5. Use a Door Viewer or Smart Peephole Camera

If you cannot see who’s at the door, you’re taking a risk. A peephole viewer or smart camera provides visibility and lets you screen visitors safely before opening the door.

Securing Windows – Often Overlooked Entry Points

Many burglaries occur because of insecure or open windows, especially on the ground floor or in secluded areas of a home. Here’s how you can reinforce window security.

6. Install Key-Operated Window Locks

Most burglars target windows that do not lock properly. Key-operated locks for all windows—especially those that open outward—can deter and delay intrusions. Always remove keys from the locks after use and store them safely out of sight.

7. Use Window Restrictors

For homes with children or multi-storey flats, window restrictors limit how far a window can open. These not only improve safety inside the home but also prevent easy external access.

8. Add Security Film or Laminated Glass

Applying security film to the glass or replacing it with laminated glass makes the window more resistant to shattering. Even if a burglar tries to break the window, it won’t fall apart easily, buying you precious time and potentially deterring the attempt altogether.

9. Fit Lockable Window Handles

Replacing standard window handles with lockable models adds an extra level of control, especially useful for sash and casement windows. These handles are tamper-resistant and make it more difficult to force the window open.

Choosing the Right Locks – Your Security Foundation

Locks are your main security mechanism. Outdated or low-quality locks can compromise the entire security of your home, no matter how sturdy your door or window might be.

10. Assess All Entry Points

Take a full inventory of all doors, patio entrances, garage access points, and rear gates. Every one of them should have a high-quality lock that suits the type of frame and door material.

11. Install Anti-Snap Euro Cylinders

For uPVC doors, anti-snap Euro cylinders are crucial. Burglars often use a method called “lock snapping” to break into homes with standard cylinders. Anti-snap locks prevent this by reinforcing the weak points and protecting the inner mechanism.

12. Consider Multi-Point Locking Systems

Multi-point locks, typically used on composite or uPVC doors, secure the door at multiple points (top, middle, and bottom) with one turn of a key. This distributes pressure across the frame and is highly resistant to break-ins.

13. Use Smart Locks for Convenience and Control

Smart locks offer keyless entry, mobile access, and activity logs. These are particularly useful for busy households, Airbnb properties, or homes with frequent visitors. Locksmith CO installs and services a wide range of smart lock systems across London.

Bonus Tips to Boost Home Security

In addition to securing your doors, windows, and locks, there are a few more strategies that can enhance your overall home protection.

14. Install Outdoor Lighting with Motion Sensors

Well-lit entryways deter intruders. Install motion-activated lighting near all access points to scare off potential burglars and improve visibility at night.

15. Maintain Clear Visibility Around the Home

Avoid tall bushes or fences that obstruct your view of entryways. Visible entry points discourage criminal activity and allow neighbours or CCTV cameras to spot suspicious behaviour more easily.

16. Use a Visible Alarm System or Security Signage

Even a visible alarm box or sticker can deter would-be burglars. If you have a monitored system, ensure it’s working properly and is regularly tested.

17. Don’t Hide Keys Outside

Avoid leaving spare keys under mats, flowerpots, or above door frames. Instead, give them to a trusted neighbour or install a high-security key safe.

Professional Locksmith Assistance from Locksmith CO

Sometimes, even the best security plan needs expert input. At Locksmith CO, we provide:

• Professional lock upgrades and installations
• Home security assessments for doors and windows
• Emergency lock repairs and burglary damage assistance
• Advice on the latest smart locking systems
• 24/7 local service across all London boroughs
• Book a Home Security Assessment Today

Whether you’re moving into a new home or upgrading your existing property, securing every access point is essential. Let the experts at Locksmith CO help you build a solid, modern defence against intrusion.

Visit https://locksmithco.co.uk for more information or to request a home security consultation.

Protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind—with Locksmith CO, London’s trusted locksmith experts.