Different ways to secure your home

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It’s prime season for break–ins. Keep them at bay by installing door and window locks. Here’s a look at your options.

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Door locks

For hinged entry doors, the most basic option is a lockset, which is a door handle with a keyed lock. The next level up is a deadlatch or deadbolt. Deadlatches are fitted to the inside face of a door and frame while a deadbolt is set into the door with a bolt that goes into the frame. Once locked, they can only be opened with a key even from the inside. So if a thief does get it in, they can’t just open the door and walk out making removal of some valuables more difficult.

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Sliding doors

To add more security than the locks fitted by manufacturers, you can add keyed sliding door locks. Screw them to the top and bottom of your sliding door and drill holes in the frame, which the sliding bolts in the lock go into. Once they’re locked the bolts can’t be removed.

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Window locks

Window locks come in a wide range to suit different styles of windows. With some window types it’s possible to lock the window in the semi-open position so you can have fresh air and security when you’re at home. Buying a complete set of locks? Make sure they’re all keyed alike. That way you don’t end up with a ring full of keys to keep your home secure.

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Keyless entry

The latest in keyless entry is electronic systems. Locks that interact with your smartphone can be used to gain access or even allow other people into your home when you’re not there. The ultimate in home security is the biometric lock. It takes a scan of your fingerprint before it opens. Only those who have had their fingerprint entered into the lock can enter your home.

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