You finally found the perfect home. You’ve even picked out the right drapes for the living room, and found the perfect table for your breakfast nook. You’re not done, however; you also need to pick the right home security options for your new home.
Home security systems come in many shapes and sizes, and with lots of options. Start by learning a little bit about what’s out there, and choose the ones that best fit your home and your budget.
Here are some home security options you’ll want to take a look at:
Wired vs. Wireless Home Security Systems
Today’s home security systems put the power of wireless technology to work for you. However, depending on the layout and construction of your home, they’re not always the best option. Do some measuring and testing when you plan your home security system if you’re going the wireless route to make sure everything communicates properly. In some cases, a wired system will be the better option.
Monitored vs. Unmonitored Home Security Systems
You also need to decide what your home security system does when your home is invaded. Do you want it to contact emergency services and send help automatically? If so, you want a monitored system. Do you want it to make a deafening noise that will alert you and your neighbors and perhaps scare off the home invader? Then you don’t necessarily need a monitored system. Monitored systems charge a monthly fee, but usually have low installation costs. Unmonitored systems will cost you more up front but don’t have an ongoing fee.
Glassbreak Sensors vs. Open Window Sensors
For windows, you can either choose a more expensive option that detects when the glass has been broken, or you can go with a simple sensor that tells you when the window has been opened.
Lock Types
Your choices aren’t limited to home security systems, either. You need to make sure each door in your home has the right type of lock. For example, external doors should have deadbolt locks, as they’re much harder to pick. If your external door has a window, you should consider a double deadbolt so that the home invader can’t simply break the glass and reach in to unlock the door.
Other Security Measures
There are some other things you’re going to need to do to secure your new home, as well. You might consider security cameras. You might want a gate around your perimeter. You will need to pay attention to landscaping and lighting, so that it’s not easy for a home invader to simply dive into a bush and climb into a window from there. Consider having a security audit, where a professional can look at your home and identify any potential weak spots.
Your home is only as secure as you’re willing to make it. Take the time to think about the best ways to protect your new home, and make sure to include security as a part of the move-in process from day one.
Madison Parker is a security expert whose interests range from personal to home security systems. Get more tips and advice on the blog Home Security Systems!