7 DIY Home Security Projects

June 11, 2023

security camera patrolling residential neighborhood

*Updated on February 19th, 2025

Every year, the United States experiences nearly 1.6 million burglaries, translating to a burglary occurring every 20 seconds. While every home carries some risk of being targeted, there are effective ways to bolster your security through simple DIY home security projects. By implementing a few strategic measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a break-in and create a safer environment for you and your loved ones.

1. Brighten Your Exterior

Protect your home from unwanted visitors with a floodlight camera or motion-activated lights. This simple solution will keep intruders away. It becomes more difficult for intruders to approach your house unnoticed. Additionally, you can set these lights on an automatic timer for added security when you’re out of town.

2. Reconsider Your Key Hiding Spot

How discreet is the location of your key? Homeowners often try to trick thieves by hiding a house key outside. They might place it under the welcome mat or in the garden shed. Unfortunately, these common hiding spots are well-known and present an easy opportunity for intruders looking for quick access.

To truly protect your property’s safety, avoid hiding a spare key outside. Instead, give that responsibility to a neighbor. They can keep an eye on the extra key for you.

3. Install a Home Security System

Numerous benefits exist in setting up a wireless security system. One benefit is that the installation is quick. The process requires roughly 30 minutes. Most basic parts of a burglar alarm are easy to install.

Good home security includes using both visible and hidden cameras. This alerts any would-be intruder that they are under surveillance. Additionally, it serves as a backup to record footage if someone tampers with the visible cameras.

4. Invest in Deadbolts

For the exterior doors of your home, you should add at least one-inch thick deadbolt locks to each door. Though they are slightly more expensive than typical locks, deadbolts are much sturdier and provide more robust protection. Installing a strong deadbolt is a relatively easy task.

When choosing the best lock system for your property, look for locks with a Grade 1 deadbolt. This rating indicates it holds the top security certification.

5. Install Window Sensors

A contact sensor is one of the simplest ways to create a secure perimeter around your home. Adding this tiny device to your windows will allow you to receive alerts when a window is open. Also, check your windows regularly. Look for any that are unlocked or have broken locks.

6. Team Effort with Neighbors

Whenever you’re away, it’s best practice to let a neighbor know and have them look after your house in your absence. This includes picking up packages, mail, and newspapers. This helps make it less obvious that your house is empty.

7. Take Precaution with Your Garage

Unless you are present in the garage, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of always closing the garage door. An open, unsupervised garage leaves a lot of your outdoor possessions vulnerable to theft.

To keep your garage safe, always close the garage door. We also suggest taking your garage door opener out of your car. If you keep your garage door opener in plain sight in your car, like on the visor, it can attract thieves. They may break into your car just to steal the opener.

8. Secure Sliding Doors

Sliding doors can be a weak point in home security. To enhance their security, install a security bar or a dowel in the track to prevent the door from being opened. Additionally, consider adding a secondary lock for extra protection.

9. Use Smart Home Technology.

Integrate smart home devices such as smart locks, doorbell cameras, and home automation systems. These devices can be controlled remotely and provide real-time alerts, enhancing your home security.

10. Reinforce Entry Points

Strengthen doors and windows by adding security film to glass surfaces, which makes them harder to break. You can also install door jammers or security bars for added protection.

11. Create a Security Checklist

Develop a routine security checklist to ensure all doors and windows are locked before leaving home or going to bed. This simple habit can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized entry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, enhancing your home security doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By taking proactive steps through DIY projects, such as installing security systems, reinforcing entry points, and collaborating with neighbors, you can create a formidable defense against potential intruders.

Start today by prioritizing your home’s safety and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve taken the necessary precautions to protect what matters most.

Additional Home Security Resources