A recent reality show on Discovery called "It takes a thief", showed two ex-burglars working with homeowners to increase security.  This show demonstrates that most of the time, a burglar gets in easily because doors are not locked, windows are not locked or have flimsy locks, keys are found in fake rocks, but I have yet to see them pick a lock to get in.  This means as a homeowner, you should be concerned about windows, garage doors, sliding glass doors, crawl spaces, etc. 

 WINDOWS

Many windowlocks (older windows) can easily be jimmied or shimmed from outside.  Look for these in your home.  In order to properly secure a window, many factors exist:  Window configuration, metal or wood, window needed for emergency egress, etc.  A good security audit should address your windows.  Don't forget about basement windows or windows on the second floor!

GARAGE DOORS

Many people that have an attached garage use their garage (overhead) door as a means of access.  Many times people have a keypad mounted just outside the garage, and they can simply type in a code, the garage goes up, and they can enter the home because the door from the garage into the home is left unlocked.  This is convenient for people with kids, no keys to lose.  In general terms, this is not a big security concern, but be aware that gargae doors with automatic openers can be opened rather quickly from outside.  This is probably not the way a burglar would enter, but if you require high security, just lock your interior door or add a lock to your garage door rails.  Locking garage doors for high security depends on the door configuration and needs.

SLIDING GLASS DOORS

Sliding glass doors often have a lock on them, but the latch is often made of pot metal which can be easily broken.  Mis-alignment on the latch of a sliding glass door is common resulting in a door that can be opened with little or no effort.  These doors can even sometimes be lifted right out of their track.  While the old broomstick in the track isn't bad, doors can often still be moved enough to get in.

My recommendation on sliding glass doors is a folding bar.  Since many people like to leave these doors open to aid in air circulation, I recommend this product:

  Mag 8820  This product will allow you to secure your sliding glass door, allows for ventilation and is cost-effective.  We install and sell these.  Call 303-339-0085 for more info!

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