Home Security DIY

There are many things that you can absolutely take on as Do It Yourself projects.  If you’re brave, perhaps refinishing your kitchen cabinets is an appealing challenge.  If you’re more of a newbie to the DIY world, maybe it’s best to start small with something more along the lines of a backyard bird feeder. Many people take it upon themselves to DIY their personal home security, but this is probably one of those times that DIY may not be the wisest choice.  You want to trust your family’s safety and all your home’s valuables to a professional who knows what they’re doing and who only uses the most reliable equipment in the industry.

However, there are certain things you can and should do around your home in addition to hiring a legitimate home security company.

Landscaping that Exposes

Especially in the very populated suburban areas of Northern Virginia, we like to take pride in making the most of our small yards by implementing beautiful landscaping.  In areas where every inch of our yard is prime real estate for a beautiful tree or shrub, we should be cautious to not over do it.  Criminals love homes where windows and doors have large, overgrown shrubs or bushes.  These make perfect hiding spots from any passer-byes.  So, on one of these nice Saturdays that are hopefully coming up soon, walk through your yard and work on trimming back any of these potential lures.  You should also go ahead and install motion lights, to help put a spotlight on anyone who decides to make an attempt on your house.

Doors that Don’t Budge

If the intruder is determined to get into your home, they will do all they can to put a hole in your door or knock it off its hinges.  Especially if they are not worried about making a racket, sometimes brute force is their only avenue of entry.  To help eliminate this possibility, an electronic alarm system is key.  However, if you opt not to have this (and even if you do), reinforce your doorframes and hinges.  Purchase solid doors and secure them with top locks or dead bolts, not just the standard ones that come with every home or door.  Make your doors stronger than your criminal.

Dogs that Deter

Maybe a little out of the scope of DIY but still something you can do at home to protect yourself is owning a dog.  A big disclaimer, though – a dog is a life, and you should only bring one into your home if you are willing to give it the love and care it needs for the rest of its life.  This is a long-term commitment but one that will not only serve you well by protecting your home, but will give you endless joy and unconditional love.  If you are serious about a good guard dog, you should look into breeds such as a German Shepherd or a Bullmastiff.  If you want more of a “warning” or watch guard, you could go along the lines of a Poodle or Terrier.  They definitely like to announce a new person approaching and may be just all that’s needed to make a potential thief turn and run.  There are many options to choose from depending on your specific intentions; however, carefully consider the right breed of dog for you and your family, especially if there will be children in or around your home.

Please give us a call if you’d like more information about a home security company that can provide you with peace of mind, so you can focus more of your time on those Pinterest DIY projects that are piling up!