There are a lot of benefits to embarking on a home improvement project. It boosts curb appeal and increases the value of your home. Home improvement projects can also be incredibly fulfilling. Seeing your hard work pay off and make your home more beautiful is very satisfying. However, these aren’t the only reasons to make improvements to your home. Another great reason to start work on your home is because it can make your home safer.
Landscaping updates for safety
When planning out your landscaping, you should keep in mind that you want to avoid having large objects that an intruder can hide behind. This doesn’t mean that you have to completely get rid of all trees and shrubs, it just means you should be smart about them! Trim your bushes, so they are uniform in shape and aren’t overgrown. You should also consider trimming back the branches on large trees that are close to your home. Tall, overgrown trees make it easier for an intruder to enter your home through a second story window.
Upgrade your front door
The front door is the most popular point of entry for burglars. 34% of burglars will get discouraged and leave if they can’t easily enter through your front door. The smartest updates you can make to a door is to remove it entirely and replace it with a door that isn’t made of wood. You want a material, like steel, that will be harder to kick down or break. Another important upgrade, especially if you don’t want to buy a brand new door, is updating the locks. Especially the deadbolt. You can choose a mortise or jimmy-proof lock to deter burglars. Many burglars will simply leave if they see a lock that they’re unfamiliar with.
Make your windows safer
Right behind your front door, first-floor windows is the second most popular point of entry for intruders. Replace your locks with window deadbolts, to make it harder to enter. Installing shatterproof glass is another great way to ensure a burglar can’t enter your home. Think about adding curtains or blinds to the inside of your windows, as well. Intruders are more likely to try to enter a home if they can see something of value that they could easily carry and resell. By installing window treatments on the inside, you eliminate the possibility of someone seeing something worth stealing, as long as you keep these window treatments closed the majority of the time.
