If you’re looking to make your home more secure, you’ve come to the right place.
It may be a surprise to learn that simply choosing the right doors and windows is an excellent step you can take towards deterring burglars.
Plus there are many other benefits too, including adding value to your home and reducing your energy bills.
Read on to find out how to make your home more secure.
Whilst the crime statistics we’re about to show you may seem a little alarming, it’s important to note that with the right windows and doors, and keeping them closed and locked, crime can be prevented.
According to the Office For National Statistics, in 2021 the most common method for a burglar to enter the house was by a door, in 76% of the cases. The same ONS data shows that windows accounted for 1 in 5 entry points at 20%.
In around half of these instances, the doors and windows were forced, and a small number were because the doors and windows were broken. Both of these factors can happen easily with old or deteriorating doors and windows. A small number of these burglaries happened because the doors and windows were simply left open, which is a warning in itself!
The installation of new doors and windows will guarantee that the frames are similarly strong and completely safe at these vulnerable points of access. They will immediately raise the level of security in your house as a whole.
| Method of entry in incidents of all domestic burglary in a dwelling | |
| England and Wales | |
| Household incidents, percentages(1) | |
| Apr ’19 to Mar ’20 | |
| Door | 76 |
| Forced lock | 33 |
| Door was not locked | 15 |
| Broke/cut panel of door | 8 |
| Pushed past person who opened the door | 7 |
| They had a key | 6 |
| False pretences | 4 |
| Kicked, smashed or rammed door | 1 |
| Broke/smashed glass of door | 1 |
| Other method | 8 |
| Window | 20 |
| Forced window lock/catch | 8 |
| Broke/cut glass | 6 |
| Window open/could be pushed open | 6 |
| Other method | 1 |
| Other | 1 |
| (Source: Office for National Statistics – Crime Survey for England and Wales) | |
| (1: Figures may not sum to 100 as more than one response possible.) | |
A front door that simply looks secure is an excellent burglar deterrent as it sends a signal to potential intruders that the rest of the house is equally protected, and therefore too risky.
This involves investing in front door security. If your door is badly designed or constructed, it will have a lower lifespan than higher quality doors.
Solid doors are more difficult to break or damage than hollow core doors. A well-built door will have a sturdy core and be made of a long-lasting material, such metal or wood. Be wary of fiberglass or glass paneled doors, as these materials are less durable. If you do want a glass panel to let some light in, choose a good quality glass with an obscure finish to reduce visibility into your home.
Window and door technology is really advancing, so you can choose from safety locking systems made to fit most types of doors. Although older doors might have safety locking mechanisms, these can easily become worn down with time and use. You can also look at deadbolts for front and back doors.
If your door lock is old, rusty or damaged, it’s time for a new one. There are various front door lock options to choose from. The most important consideration is to check with your home insurance provider to make sure you’re covered for the particular type of lock, otherwise your insurance will not cover burglaries.
Five lever mortice lock
One of the most common types of lock, you’ll find a five lever mortice lock on the list of approved locks for home insurance policies. Generally, the more levers a door lock has, the more secure it is.
Multi point locking system
A multi-point locking system is a very secure type of door lock. It sits inside the door and has three locking points. It is operated using a handle and a key.
Rim Automatic Deadlatch with Key-Locking Handle
The key locking cylinder to insert your key is on the outside of the door, with a rim automatic deadlatch or nightlatch on the inside.
Euro Cylinder Lock
This type of lock is commonly fitted to uPVC and composite doors. They are used with multi-point locking systems and can also be fitted to mortice deadlocks and sashlocks on aluminium or timber doors.
Our locking systems
Composite doors from CR Windows have 11 unique locking points surrounding the door,
patio doors come with security as standard, with hook locking and anti-lift devices, and French doors are fitted with our high security 12 point lock system.
The best windows for home security
As well as making your home more secure, replacing old or damaged windows will also improve the look of your property. Thanks to advancements in window design, windows are more secure than ever, with double glazing adding an extra layer of defence. You can also choose from a range of locking systems to protect your home from burglars and a variety of styles and designs to blend in with your home.
Always close and lock your windows when your home is unattended, and if you sleep with a window open, choose a locking system that will allow the window to be locked when it’s slightly open.
Many people believe that after they have purchased their home, they don’t need to do anything with the windows and doors for the foreseeable future.
However, most homeowners should plan to repair windows and/or doors at least once in the usual lifespan of their home, depending on the age of the home you’re buying. We recommend including window maintenance on your summer to-do list at the very least.
There are many benefits in choosing doors and windows from CR Windows. We manufacture all of our products on site, giving us complete control when it comes to ensuring both the quality and security of the products. We have over 40 years’ experience of providing quality windows, doors and conservatories, and we offer a 10 year guarantee on all products manufactured and installed by us.
Our composite exterior doors are made from a multitude of materials, including a steel reinforced PVC frame, insulated GRP (glass reinforced plastic), and a comprehensive 4 hook and central deadbolt locking system. The result is a door that is extremely strong, durable and weather resistant.
When it comes to windows, you’ll be making a quality choice. Our A-rated windows are accredited by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) for their energy efficiency and have been developed with durability and security in mind.
Secure windows and doors doesn’t mean you have to compromise on aesthetics. Our wide range of styles gives you the option to choose windows and doors that perfectly match the look of your home.
As well as choosing the right windows and doors for your home, there are additional steps you can take to increase your home’s security.
Burglars tend to avoid properties with visible security measures such as alarm systems or even warning signs with “Beware of the Dog”, so consider adding these to your home to maximise security.
If you are going away on holiday, ask a neighbour or friend to park outside your house and to clear away and take in any post or deliveries that are visible.
If you have any additional questions about how to make your home more secure, we’d love to help. Get in touch below to speak to our team.