10 Home Security Upgrades You Can Do Without Spending Much

We’ve all been there—the feeling of being at home, safe and sound, only to suddenly wonder, “Is my home really secure?” You lock your doors, close the windows, and maybe set an alarm. But, with the increasing number of break-ins happening every minute, it’s easy to feel like more needs to be done.

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to break the bank to make your home a fortress. Small, affordable changes can dramatically reduce the risk of a break-in. And the best part? These steps don’t require you to be a security expert or spend a fortune.

In this article, I’ll share 10 simple yet highly effective ways you can secure your home—without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re looking for high-tech solutions, or just some practical advice, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to turn your home into a safer place? Let’s dive in.

Why Home Security Is Crucial (And Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive)

When you think about securing your home, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the thought of high costs and complex systems. But here’s the truth: securing your home doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, small, budget-friendly changes can dramatically reduce the risk of a break-in, and they can be done quickly.

Let’s break down the key facts to keep in mind:

• Home burglaries happen every 16 seconds in the U.S., with over 90% of break-ins occurring when the house is empty.
• Small changes, like better locks, motion lights, and even a dog, can make a huge difference in deterring burglars.
• Budget-friendly measures can be just as effective as high-end systems in preventing break-ins—whether you’re dealing with an amateur thief or a professional.

Protecting your home doesn’t require expensive gadgets or complex setups. Even minor tweaks can make your home a much harder target. Let’s dive into a few simple yet highly effective methods to get you started.

1. The Power of a Simple Alarm System

A reliable alarm system is one of the most effective ways to secure your home, and the best part? It doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

• Cost Breakdown: Alarm systems typically range from $100 to $1,200, with a monthly monitoring fee of about $35. That’s a small investment for major peace of mind.
• Real Impact: Homes with alarms are three times less likely to be burglarized. The sound of an alarm is often enough to send burglars running, while alerting neighbors and law enforcement.
• Affordable, Reliable Systems: There are budget-friendly, DIY systems that work wonders. Brands like SimpliSafe and Wyze offer great options that are easy to install and won’t break the bank.

I highly recommend considering one of these systems. They give you the security and control you need without the high costs. For more insights on alarm systems and reviews, you can check out Security.org, where they dive into the best alarm systems for home security.

Leaving Town? Here are 10 Things to Do So Burglars Stay Out — This article provides additional tips for securing your home before you leave, so burglars don’t get the chance to target your property.

2. How a Dog Can Be Your Best Security System

Dogs are more than just loyal companions—they can also be one of the best security systems you can get. And no, you don’t need a guard dog to make this work.

Here’s how a dog can help:

• Best Breeds for Protection: Certain dog breeds are naturally protective and alert. German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers are great choices for home security. These breeds are trained to guard their territory and respond to potential threats.
• Protection without High Costs: A well-trained dog can serve as a natural alarm. Their barking and protective behavior can deter burglars long before they get inside.
• Pet-Immune Motion Detectors: If you have a dog but still want to install a security system, pet-immune motion detectors are a great option. They’ll prevent your dog’s movements from triggering the system unnecessarily.

Many professional trainers can help you choose the right dog and train them to protect your home effectively.

3. The Role of Lighting in Home Security

Lighting can be one of the most effective yet often overlooked methods of protecting your home. You’d be surprised how strategic lighting can make your property less inviting to intruders.

• Motion-Sensor Lights: These lights automatically turn on when they detect movement, which is perfect for lighting areas burglars might approach. Placing them near entry points like front doors, side gates, and the back of your house is a simple way to enhance security. Motion-activated lights are cheap, easy to install, and make it far less likely that someone can sneak up unnoticed.
• Outdoor Floodlights: Installing outdoor floodlights near your doors and windows makes it harder for burglars to operate under the cover of darkness. A well-lit home is a clear deterrent, as burglars often look for houses where they can work in the shadows. Floodlights are highly visible and will make it nearly impossible for intruders to approach unnoticed.
• Indoor Lighting Timers: When you’re away, your home can look empty and vulnerable. But with indoor lighting timers, you can create the illusion that someone is home. By setting lights to turn on and off at certain times, burglars will assume your house is occupied, decreasing the likelihood of a break-in. This simple trick can be a game-changer, especially when combined with other security measures.

Experts recommend placing lights in areas where burglars might hide or attempt to break in unnoticed. For more information on how effective lighting can be, check out this article from HowStuffWorks on simple ways to secure your home.

4. Keep Your Keys Safe and Secure

Keys are one of the easiest ways for burglars to gain access to your home, and yet they’re often overlooked. Keeping them safe and secure is one of the simplest and most effective ways to enhance your home’s security.

• Minimize Key Access: The fewer people who have keys, the better. Only give access to trusted individuals, and make sure you get the keys back when they’re no longer needed. If you’re sharing keys with people like cleaners or dog walkers, try to limit access to only one entry point to reduce the risk.
• Use Key Safes: A key safe is a secure and affordable option for locking away spare keys. Don’t hide your keys under the doormat, flowerpot, or above the doorframe—these are the first places burglars look. Instead, a key safe that’s discreetly placed makes it harder for anyone to access your keys without permission.
• Smart Locks for Added Security: Consider upgrading to smart locks. These allow you to control access remotely and make it harder for thieves to pick your locks. You can easily change codes and keep track of who enters your home. Plus, many modern smart locks are keyless, so you’ll never have to worry about losing a physical key again.
• Social Media Tip: Keep an eye out for posts on platforms like Reddit or Facebook, where security experts often share tips about securing your keys. Many security professionals emphasize the importance of smart locks and key management. You can also find helpful tips on local community forums about how to keep your keys secure.

5. Building Stronger Connections with Your Neighbors

When it comes to home security, community is one of your best allies. Your neighbors can be your first line of defense, helping keep an eye on your property when you’re not around.

• Neighborhood Watch Programs: Starting a neighborhood watch is one of the most effective ways to improve security in your area. You and your neighbors can exchange contact information, watch out for each other’s homes, and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. It’s an easy and low-cost way to prevent crime.
• Spotting Suspicious Behavior: Neighbors are often the first to notice unusual behavior, like unattended packages left on doorsteps or delivery trucks parked too long near your house. By communicating with your neighbors, you can help spot these warning signs early. It’s a simple but highly effective way to keep your street safer.
• Community Insight: In many cities, neighborhood watch programs have reduced crime significantly. For instance, in neighborhoods where these programs are active, crime rates often drop by up to 20%. Local police often commend these initiatives, as they rely on community vigilance. You can read more about how community engagement helps keep neighborhoods safe on the National Neighborhood Watch website.

How Burglars Break Into Homes — This article explains the most common ways burglars gain access to homes, so you can better secure your property against potential threats.

6. Simple Upgrades to Make Your Doors More Secure

Your doors are the primary entry point for burglars. If your doors aren’t strong enough, it’s an open invitation to intruders. But don’t worry, you can make affordable upgrades to strengthen them without breaking the bank.

• Replace Strike Plates & Add Longer Screws: The strike plate is the metal plate that surrounds your lock’s bolt. Replacing it with a stronger, reinforced plate and adding longer screws can make a world of difference. Use screws that go 3 inches deep into the door frame studs to make it much harder for anyone to force the door open.
• Install Deadbolts & Use Peepholes: Deadbolts are a must for extra security. Make sure to use high-quality deadbolts that extend a full inch into the frame, and always keep your doors locked. Install a peephole or a security camera so you can safely screen visitors before opening the door.
• Cost-Effective DIY Improvements: Reinforcing your door’s security doesn’t have to be expensive. You can find affordable deadbolts, door jammers, and reinforcement kits at your local hardware store. These improvements are simple to install, and they offer a lot of bang for your buck.

Going Away for the Weekend? Do These 5 Things First — This article outlines practical steps to take when you’re away from home, ensuring your security measures are in place.

7. Window Security Hacks You Can Do Yourself

Windows are another vulnerable spot in your home’s security. Luckily, reinforcing them doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here’s how you can boost your window security on a budget:

• Security Window Films: Consider adding security window film to make your glass tougher to break. These films hold the glass together if shattered, preventing easy access for intruders. They’re a great budget-friendly option that adds a protective layer without needing to replace the windows.
• Extra Locks or Reinforced Glass: Install additional locks on windows that are easy to reach from the outside. Reinforced glass or laminated windows can make a huge difference in preventing break-ins, as they’re far more difficult to break than regular glass.
• Position Locks Out of Easy Reach: Don’t place locks where burglars can easily reach them from the outside. Ensure window locks are installed high up or in a position where they can’t be easily tampered with.

8. Why You Should Keep Your Belongings Hidden

One of the easiest ways to keep burglars from targeting your home is by concealing your valuables. Here’s why hiding your items is so important for home security:

• Keep Valuable Items Out of Sight: If burglars can see expensive items like TVs, jewelry, or electronics from outside, they’re more likely to break in. Keep these items out of view by drawing curtains, blinds, or using decorative screens.
• Use Privacy Blinds or Shutters: Installing privacy blinds or shutters on windows helps block the view into your home. Even if burglars try to peep through the window, they won’t be able to see anything valuable that might tempt them.
• Fencing and Landscaping: Tall fences or dense bushes around your property can act as a natural privacy barrier. Not only will this obscure the view into your home, but it will also make it more difficult for burglars to approach without being noticed.

9. Safety First: Secure Hazardous Areas in Your Home

Security goes beyond just keeping burglars out. It’s also about ensuring your home is safe from accidents, particularly in areas where hazards are more likely to occur.

• Pool Safety: If you have a swimming pool, installing a fence around the pool area is essential. Pools are a leading cause of accidents, and keeping children or pets out of the area when you’re not around is crucial. In fact, drowning is one of the top causes of accidental deaths in the U.S. — something as simple as a fence can save lives.
• Keep Dangerous Tools or Chemicals Locked Away: The garage is often home to tools, cleaners, and chemicals that can be hazardous. Lock these items away in cabinets or storage bins to prevent accidents, especially if you have young children or pets.
• Encourage Children to Avoid the Garage: The garage can be a dangerous place, especially when filled with sharp tools or toxic materials. Set clear safety rules for children to keep them out of the garage when not supervised.

10. Fire Safety: A Crucial Part of Home Protection

Fires are another risk that often gets overlooked when we think about home security. Ensuring your home is fire-safe is just as important as locking your doors or securing your windows.

• Ensure Smoke Detectors Are Working: Smoke detectors are your first line of defense against fire. Test them monthly to make sure they’re working properly. Change the batteries at least once a year to ensure they’re always ready in case of an emergency.
• Keep Fire Extinguishers in High-Risk Areas: Place fire extinguishers in areas like the kitchen and garage, where fires are more likely to start. Make sure everyone in the household knows where the extinguishers are and how to use them.
• Practice a Family Fire Escape Plan: A fire escape plan is something every family should have. Practice it regularly, so everyone knows what to do in case of a fire. Plan your escape routes and decide on a safe meeting spot outside the house.

Conclusion: Simple Measures for Big Security Gains

You’ve now learned that securing your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, small, simple changes can make a huge difference in protecting your home from intruders. Let’s quickly recap the 10 key steps that can help you get started:

1. Install an affordable alarm system for quick detection and deterrence.
2. Get a dog (or utilize pet-immune motion detectors) for added security.
3. Use motion-sensor lights and outdoor floodlights to illuminate dark areas around your home.
4. Minimize key access and consider using smart locks for better control.
5. Engage with your neighbors through a neighborhood watch to create a stronger community defense.
6. Reinforce doors with stronger locks, longer screws, and deadbolts.
7. Secure windows with reinforced glass, extra locks, and security film.
8. Conceal valuables by keeping them out of sight and using privacy blinds.
9. Safeguard hazardous areas like the pool and garage to prevent accidents.
10. Ensure fire safety with functional smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and a fire escape plan.

Even these small steps can create a safer home, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Take action today and start making your home more secure—whether you’re installing lights, upgrading locks, or training your dog. The sooner you act, the sooner you can feel safe and protected in your own home.

If you need more tips or help with home improvements, visit Build Like New today to get expert advice on securing and improving your home. Let’s work together to make your space safer!

Disclaimer: The security tips mentioned are general suggestions. For customized advice or professional installation, it’s recommended to consult a licensed security expert.