Home Security

A good home is a safe home. But making your happy place more secure goes beyond high-tech automation systems and guard dogs—you need strong windows, doors, locks, and even landscaping to sure up weak spots in your current deterrent systems. Browse our library of expert guidance to help protect your home and the ones you love the most.

Woman ringing doorbell in front of red door
Photo: fizkes / Adobe Stock
Woman ringing doorbell in front of red door
Photo: fizkes / Adobe Stock
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From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
New York street with brownstone houses
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Oct 3, 2024
Oct 3, 2024
From warding off intruders to protecting from falls, bars on windows can make a home much more secure. Here’s how much it costs to install bars on windows.
A home terrace in the night
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Oct 3, 2024
Oct 3, 2024
Motion-sensor lighting costs vary greatly because they have so many customizations available. Learn more by using this cost guide about motion-sensor lights.
House with two security cameras
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Oct 16, 2024
Oct 16, 2024
A security camera system gives you peace of mind that there’s always a watchful eye on your home. Learn the costs of installing surveillance cameras.
A security camera in the exterior of a red brick house
Taylor Sansano
•
Oct 14, 2024
Oct 14, 2024
Monitored vs. unmonitored home security systems: which can best defend your home from crime and other dangers? Learn the differences between these two products.
The exterior of a house with the security lights turned on
C.E. Larusso
•
Oct 21, 2024
Oct 21, 2024
Ensure your home is safe and well-lit for guests. Learn about the different types of security lights and choose what’s best for your home.
Front door on house
Allie Ogletree
•
Oct 15, 2024
Oct 15, 2024
Alarm systems can be useful for home security depending on the type. If you’re wondering do alarm systems deter burglars, keep reading to find out.
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Woman opening apartment entrance door
Allie Ogletree  •  Nov 6, 2024
12 Effective Tips to Secure Your Apartment
Learn how to secure an apartment by fortifying entry points, using tech, and building neighborly bonds with these 12 tips.
A man unlocks the front door of a house
Taylor Sansano  •  Nov 4, 2024
How to Lubricate a Lock: 10 Ways to Unstick a Lock
Is your key stuck, and you need to know how to lubricate your lock? Look no further. This article outlines 10 ways to unstick a lock without calling a locksmith.
House with nice window
Taylor Sansano  •  Nov 4, 2024
How to Secure Windows to Prevent Break-Ins
There are many different avenues for how to secure windows. Depending on your home’s layout and vulnerabilities, one or more of these six tips may help.
Bunch of keys hanging in a door
Jouviane Alexandre  •  Nov 4, 2024
How to Pick a Lock (And When It's Time to Call a Locksmith)
Learning how to pick a door lock can help you get out of a bind when you lock yourself out of your home. Learn the most basic method with this guide.
Black front door
C.E. Larusso  •  Nov 4, 2024
How to Improve Front Door Security: Full Guide
Home security begins at the front door. Check out our tips to improve your front entry door security as a barrier against unwanted intruders. There are many different strategies, from installing an entirely new door to an updated lock.
A motion detector flood light outside a brick house
Jouviane Alexandre  •  Nov 4, 2024
How to Reset a Motion Detector Flood Light When It’s Not Working Properly
If your security lights aren’t working the way you expect, you may need to troubleshoot. Learn how to reset a motion detector flood light with this guide.
A metal swing gate
Allie Ogletree  •  Nov 1, 2024
5 Types of Security Gates: How to Pick the Right Gate
Protecting your home is an investment worth making. Learn about the best types of security gates to find a style that fits both your budget and your property.
security camera on house
Jouviane Alexandre  •  Nov 1, 2024
How to Install Security Cameras in 6 Easy Steps
You don’t have to spend thousands to set up a security system. Follow this DIY guide to learn how to install security cameras and protect your home.
Kid opening sliding door on patio
Kelly Weimert  •  Nov 1, 2024
How to Secure a Sliding Glass Door: Full Guide
Is your glass sliding door as safe and secure as it can be? This common entryway may be the window into your backyard, but common issues like an old lock or dirty track can make it more vulnerable. Use these six tips to fortify your sliding door.
A view of the front door of a home
C.E. Larusso  •  Oct 29, 2024
How to Install a Security Door in 6 Steps
To keep your property and loved ones safe, you might consider a security door for exterior entry points. Learn how to install a security door yourself.
Woman entering code on home security alarm
C.E. Larusso  •  Oct 29, 2024
How to Install a Home Security System in 6 Easy Steps
Looking to truly amp up your home’s overall security level? Keep reading to learn how to install a security system all by yourself.
Person unlocking the deadbolt on front door
Sara Coleman  •  Oct 29, 2024
What Is a Double-Keyed Deadbolt Lock?
Is adding a double-cylinder deadbolt to an exterior door a good idea? Find out about the pros and cons of adding double-keyed deadbolts vs. single-keyed deadbolts to exterior doors for safety and security. Deadbolts with two keys pose unique challenges.