Renovations That Improve Home Security

If you’ve spent any amount of time looking into buying a house, you’ve likely heard of the phrase “fixer-upper.” It’s a relatively common phrase and essentially, means buying a cheaper house that’s in need of repair, then completing some renovation work to improve it and raise the value. For a lot of people, it’s the best way to get on the property ladder.

However, there’s one area that’s easily overlooked; home security. Yes, stripping out and replacing old wallpaper, redecorating bedrooms and installing new kitchens all have benefits, but it’s important to think about safety too. Here at Reading Trade Windows, we’ve got several ideas on how to improve home security, so let’s look at a few.

Police Approved Double Glazing

One big improvement you can make to your new home is to install modern windows. There is a misconception that windows are a weak point and can easily be targeted by burglars, but this is outdated and no longer valid. In days gone by, single glazed windows were easy to break and manipulate, but today’s double glazing is much tougher. The gap between the panes acts as a shock absorber and will resist direct attempts to break it.

Optional upgrades such as toughened security glass or triple glazing will increase the resilience even further. All of our windows are approved by Secured By Design, a UK Police initiative that aims to reduce crime with home improvement innovations. They’re fitted with a 4mm clear laminated glass inner panel and a 6.4mm outer one that makes them very difficult to break. 

Lock Hardware

Modern windows are built to resist forced break-ins, but what about the more sophisticated intruders? We’re all familiar with the stereotype of graceful, black-clad cat burglars using lockpicks to quietly enter a house, what can we do about them? 

Well, never underestimate the power of a decent locking mechanism. Multipoint locks like our Secure Sac Window Locks are specifically designed to resist break-in attempts. These shoot-bolt style locks also take the pressure off the hinges and frames, so they can be relied on for an exceptionally long time. Locks are very easy to forget when renovating a house, but choosing the best ones can do wonders for the safety of a home. 

Avoid Wooden Doors

We love timber doors, but if you’re thinking about security they shouldn’t be your first choice. Classic wooden doors have a certain charm and running your fingers across their authentic, rough surfaces is a quiet joy, but they won’t keep people out as well as their alternatives. Instead, we’d recommend choosing a uPVC front door. These heavy-duty doors are far more resilient and there’s no risk of rot, meaning there are no weak spots for burglars to exploit. uPVC doors are also widely customisable and can be made to resemble wooden doors. 

We understand that from an aesthetic point of view, plastic doors might sound off-putting. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you find out how many design styles there are. The woodgrain finish especially is very convincing and there are multiple colours to choose from as well. You might not initially like the idea of a plastic door, but there are just as many design options and they’re safer than their wooden cousins. 

Buying your first house can be a very exciting experience and upgrading it is just as rewarding. But remember, designing new bedrooms, knocking through walls and extending kitchens is one thing, but don’t forget about keeping the new property safe. It might not be as exciting, but it’s worth it in the long run. 

If you’d like to know more about security-focused home renovations, get in touch. You can contact us today and one of our expert staff will be happy to help. 

Categories: News

Tags: benefits of double glazing, double glazing, home improvement, home security, install new windows, locks, renovation, uPVC doors