Front Doors: The Most Misused Main Access Point
Burglars don’t always rely on stealth. In fact, many break-ins begin right at the front door. We’ve worked on numerous homes where forced entry left the frame splintered, locks broken, or strike plates barely hanging on. A weak deadbolt or outdated knob-style lock is often the only thing standing between your home and an intruder. Therefore, reinforcing the front door is a foundational part of improving residential security.
Most importantly, it’s not just about the lock. Our team recommends installing a reinforced door jamb, upgrading to a high-security deadbolt, and ensuring the door itself isn’t hollow core. In addition, it helps to mount a wide-angle peephole and secure hinges with non-removable pins. Many of these measures are easy to overlook until damage is done. That’s why our residential locksmith Calgary solutions focus on both prevention and long-term durability.
First-Floor Windows: A Quiet, Unlocked Risk
First-floor windows may seem less likely to be targeted, but burglars often find them easier to breach quietly. Windows are frequently left unlocked or have weak latches that can be forced open in seconds. That is to say, they’re often seen as secondary points that homeowners underestimate. Our experience shows they’re a common choice for intruders, especially if they’re hidden by landscaping or out of view from the street.
Adding window sensors, sash locks, or even security film can make a big difference. Furthermore, planting thorny shrubs or installing motion-activated lighting near ground-level windows adds visual deterrence. We’ve helped clients reevaluate their window security through complete residential inspections and have found it’s one of the fastest ways to reduce overall vulnerability. You can learn more about what options we offer for residential locksmith Calgary concerns right here in the city.
Garage Doors: A Vulnerable Gateway to the Interior
Garage doors, especially those with attached interior access, are a top choice for burglars. Consequently, the automatic openers, exterior keypads, or interior emergency cords become weak links. We’ve seen cases where burglars used simple coat hangers through the top of the garage to pull the release cord and bypass the system. In other words, it doesn’t take advanced tools—just opportunity and time.
We always recommend securing the emergency release with a zip tie (without impeding emergency use), and disabling the opener when away for long periods. Moreover, it’s vital to lock the interior door from the garage to the home with a strong deadbolt. Even if the garage is breached, that extra layer slows down unauthorized access. If you’re researching locksmith Calgary services, it’s crucial to find one familiar with this level of layered home protection.
Basement Entrances: Hidden and Often Forgotten
Burglars value privacy, and basement doors or windows provide exactly that. These points are often below line of sight and not checked daily by homeowners. As a result, a rusted lock, damaged frame, or unlocked basement window can be the weakest part of the house. We’ve secured countless basements after break-ins that revealed just how ignored these access points can be.
To clarify, even if you rarely use your basement entry, it deserves the same level of reinforcement as your main doors. A quality lock, reinforced hardware, and steel-bar window grates are effective additions. Basement security often requires a balance between light entry and physical protection. Our team handles these assessments daily and knows what makes these lower-level entries appealing. If you’re unsure about the state of your basement locks, we encourage you to get in touch through our contact page to schedule a visit.
Patio Doors: Sliding Panels That Slide Open Too Easily
Sliding glass doors are one of the most manipulated entry points we’ve seen in Calgary homes. These doors are often designed for ease of use, not necessarily for security. That makes them an appealing target. However, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with weak locks or plastic latches. There are highly effective measures that can prevent these doors from being forced open or lifted off their tracks.
Firstly, we recommend installing a security bar or rod in the door track. Secondly, keyed pin locks offer additional reinforcement. Some newer models include anti-lift devices, but older homes often lack these features. Patio areas tend to be more secluded, which gives intruders more time to test the lock. Reinforcing sliding doors is a simple but crucial improvement. We’ve secured many homes this way, especially where other security upgrades were already in place.
FAQs
1. What’s the most common mistake homeowners make with front door security?
Leaving old deadbolts in place and not reinforcing the door frame are frequent issues. Burglars often kick in doors that look strong but are secured poorly.
2. Are window locks enough to stop a break-in?
Not always. Standard latches are easy to bypass. Adding sash locks, sensors, or even window film improves resistance and alerts you to tampering.
3. How can I secure my garage if I park outside?
Disable the opener, reinforce the overhead door from the inside, and secure any exterior garage doors with a strong lock and a deadbolt on the inner door.
4. What are signs my basement entry is insecure?
Signs include rusted locks, warped doors, old keyholes, or windows with no locking mechanism. These are easy to exploit and often out of sight.
5. Can I secure patio doors without replacing them?
Yes. Use a security rod in the track, install a keyed pin lock, and consider shatter-resistant film. You don’t need full replacement to gain better protection.