However, home renovation is also the perfect time to start thinking about security. What good is renovating your home and making it ideal if you’re not protecting it from any outside threats?
Home security doesn’t have to be an incredibly costly endeavor. Sure, you can spend money on an expensive security system with cameras and motion detection. Still, better home security can start with a couple of options that are much simpler, like upgraded smart locks and reinforced door frames.
Below, you’ll find a breakdown about why smart locks and reinforced door frames are good investments, as well as best practices for each.
Smart Locks
When it comes to door handles, they can range from simple French door handles that are largely cosmetic and provide little to no security to beefy door locking systems used in industrial settings. A nice compromise that provides convenience as well as enhanced security is a smart lock system.
There are many different variations of smart locks, but most of them fall into one general category. They are locking systems that ditch the simple key opening in favor of a keypad and/or phone app.
For someone who wants a smart lock that is easy to use while still providing enhanced security, look for one with a phone app and a keypad. If security is your top priority, it’s probably worth considering a lock with biometric capabilities, such as a fingerprint reader.
Then, of course, you have to consider which smart assistant you might want to integrate with the lock. Many of the options integrate with top assistants such as Google Assistant and Alexa.
Smart Lock Best Practices
Choose a smart lock manufactured by a reputable brand.
The last thing you want is to buy a cheap smart lock that either breaks quickly or provides worse security than what you had before. Reputation in the door lock industry is vital.
Be conscious about battery types.
Considering your smart lock is exposed to the elements, you want to make sure you choose a system with the appropriate battery option. Whether it uses simple AAs or lithium-ion batteries, each has its own pros and cons. No matter what, it’s important to have spare batteries as backup.
Proper installation is key.
When it comes to door lock installation, it’s always important to make sure the parts line up properly for proper locking. With a smart lock, that requirement is magnified, as proper installation might mean the lock simply doesn’t engage correctly, leaving the door unlocked.
Be aware of the elements.
Keeping your locking system free of dirt and debris is a good best practice with any type of lock. So, if you live in a location that experiences a harsh winter and salts are used to melt ice, it’s important to make sure you clean your door lock regularly so nothing gets corroded or broken.
Any door lock that is exposed to the elements also runs the risk of getting regular dirt and debris in the door handle or locking mechanism. Keeping a clean locking system ensures your smart lock will last for years to come.
supporting viewpoint
Affordable Home Security Tips: From Least to Most Expensive Options To Consider
Ensuring the safety and security of your home and family is a top priority for many homeowners. Fortunately, you don’t need to break the bank to achieve peace of mind.
Reinforced Door Frames
An upgraded door locking system, such as with a smart lock, is almost a no-brainer when it comes to additional security for your home. However, no lock is going to live up to its full potential if your door frame is weak.
Unfortunately, your home might have been built with less-than-stellar wood or has just degraded over time. If that happens, a simple kick to the door can fully dislodge the whole thing, and your lock is useless. That’s where a reinforced door frame comes in.
A reinforced door frame might very well be the last thing you consider when it comes to upgrading home security, but it might just be the most vital. There are several options when it comes to a reinforced door frame. The main takeaway from all of them is simple. Stronger materials mean better security.
Depending on your desired level of security, you can go with a door frame that is made from stronger wood such as oak, pine, or maple.
Oak is probably the strongest of those wood options, but it can also be a bit more costly. If you want to move beyond regular wood, then there are also metal reinforcements.
Steel is often chosen because of its incredible strength, but it’s also really heavy, making installation a bit trickier. Aluminum is another good option because it’s lighter and a bit more cost-effective. Unfortunately, it’s also not as strong as steel.
Regardless of the material chosen, a reinforced door frame is additional security that is low-tech but incredibly important.
Reinforced Door Frame Best Practices
- Regular checks are important. As with any security feature in your home, regularly checking your door frame is crucial. Look for cracks and any visible damage. Check for loose screws or bolts. And regularly ensure your door opens and closes smoothly.
- Preventive maintenance will save money. If you see damage or noticeable wear and tear, you should always address it quickly and not let it get worse. If you let it persist, you could be looking at an even costlier bill down the line.
- Don’t be afraid to call a professional. Sometimes a problem is more than a simple DIY fix. At this point, call a professional. As stated above, a door frame is maybe the most important part of a locking system. You don’t want to compromise your home security by attempting a fix by yourself.
more info about choosing doors
Complete Guide to Home Doors Types: Exterior, Interior & Patio Options
Exterior doors need to provide security, durability, and insulation, while interior doors focus more on style, space efficiency, and privacy.
Don’t Forget Home Security During Renovation
Of course, home renovation can be filled with fun, stylish choices. Transforming your home should turn it into your personal oasis. However, it’s also a time when home security upgrades are implemented.
Smart locks and reinforced door frames are two options every home renovation project should take into consideration.
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Image credit: smart locks by envato.com
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