Mythbusters — If a burglar really wants to get in, then they will.
Wednesday Wisdom
Whenever I go out to people, and talk about their home security, very often people...
If you’ve ever worried about the security of your home when it’s left vacant for a period, you’re not alone. Squatters can be a serious issue, and dealing with them is often a lengthy and stressful process. The good news? You don’t have to wait until something happens. Take a few proactive steps and invest in the right security measures, so you can significantly reduce the risk of squatters gaining access to your property.
Here is a list of security measures you can take to make your property much harder to break into.
Protect Your Home
There are several things you can do to keep squatters at bay:
- Steel Doors
Let’s start with the big one: steel doors. If you’re serious about security, installing a steel door should be one of your first steps. These doors offer unmatched strength and durability compared to regular wooden or UPVC doors. Steel doors are designed to withstand forced entry attempts, making them an excellent deterrent for anyone trying to break in.
And the benefits of steel doors don’t stop at security. Many options come with additional features like thermal insulation, soundproofing, and fire resistance, making them versatile and efficient.
- CCTV Systems
Security cameras are a great way to keep an eye on your home when you’re not around. Not only do they act as a deterrent, but they also provide valuable evidence if someone tries to enter your property. Modern CCTV systems can be accessed remotely through your smartphone, meaning you can monitor your home no matter where you are. Knowing you can check in at any time brings peace of mind and helps ensure that your property stays safe.
- Bar Grilles and Security Bars
Windows are often seen as weak points in a home’s security. One way to change this is by installing bar grilles or security bars over ground-level windows or other vulnerable entry points. These bars provide an extra layer of protection, making it much harder for squatters to break in through a window.
- Motion-Activated Lighting
Squatters and intruders often look for properties that seem unoccupied or poorly lit. Motion-activated lights are a simple yet effective way to make your home seem occupied and discourage anyone from trying to sneak in. These lights switch on when they detect movement, exposing anyone approaching your home and making it much less attractive to squatters.
- High-Security Locks
It’s always a good idea to invest in high-security locks for both your doors and windows. Options like deadbolts, mortise locks, or even smart locks can greatly increase the security of your home. Smart locks, in particular, are becoming more popular as they allow you to control access remotely, monitor who enters and leaves, and even provide temporary codes for guests or service providers.
- Alarm Systems
Alarm systems are another powerful tool for home security. A well-installed alarm will not only alert you (and possibly the authorities) if someone tries to enter your home, but the loud noise is usually enough to send would-be squatters running. It will also bring attention to your home from your neighbours, making it extremely risky for squatters to get in.
The Ultimate Security Solution
Now let’s take a closer look at steel doors and why they are such an essential part of home security. Steel doors offer far more than just protection against squatters—they provide a range of benefits that make them one of the smartest investments for homeowners.
Why Steel Doors?
Steel doors are renowned for their strength, durability, and resistance to forced entry. Unlike traditional wooden doors, which can be kicked in or pried open with relative ease, steel doors are nearly impossible to break through without specialised tools. Their design makes them an excellent deterrent for squatters or anyone looking to gain unauthorised access to your home.
Here’s a closer look at some of the different steel doors available at Amberley Security and how they can benefit your property:
- Climador Steel Door
The Climador is perfect if you’re looking for both security and energy efficiency. It has an insulated leaf that helps keep your home warm, and its EPDM rubber seal protects against wind and water, ensuring that your property stays secure and weatherproof. With a U-value as low as 1.4 W/m²K, it’s also a smart choice for energy-conscious homeowners looking to save on their bills. - Steeldor Steel Door
The Steeldor is the ultimate all-rounder when it comes to security and durability. With PAS 24 security ratings and PAS 23 weather resistance, it’s built to withstand both break-ins and the elements. Plus, it can be customised with additional features like reinforced locks, making it perfect for homes in high-risk areas. - Gasdor Steel Door
If you need airtight or gas-tight protection, the Gasdor is ideal. While it’s more commonly used in industrial settings, it can be adapted for residential use in spaces like storage rooms or garages where you need that extra level of protection. - Acoustidor Steel Door
For homes located in noisy areas or for rooms that require sound isolation, the Acoustidor is perfect. This door offers certified noise reduction, making it great for home offices, studios, or even bedrooms where you want to keep outside noise out. - Glassdor Security Door:
If you’re looking for a blend of security and style, the Glassdor offers a sleek, modern design without compromising on safety. It’s great for entrance doors, shop fronts, or reception areas, and comes with fire resistance and smoke control features. - Firedor Steel Door:
When safety is a priority, especially in the event of a fire, the Firedor provides critical protection. It’s independently tested and certified for up to four hours of fire resistance, giving you the peace of mind that your home is protected even in emergencies. - Ballistidor Steel Door:
For those requiring the highest level of security, the Ballistidor is designed to withstand ballistic impacts, offering protection in life-threatening situations. This door is perfect for homes where security is paramount. - Securidor Steel Door:
The Securidor is built to meet EN1627 security standards and is often used in high-security environments like banks and data centres. But it can also be a fantastic option for homes that need maximum protection, with a range of hardware options available.
Why Steel Doors Are the Best Investment
Beyond their durability and security, steel doors offer several additional advantages:
- Weather Resistance: Many steel doors are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, keeping your home secure from the elements. The Steeldor and Climador models, for example, offer excellent protection against wind and rain.
- Thermal Efficiency: Some steel doors, like the Climador, come with insulated cores that help maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing energy consumption and saving you money on heating bills.
- Fire and Smoke Protection: Fire-rated steel doors like the Firedor provide critical protection in the event of a fire, ensuring that your home is safe during emergencies.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to protecting your home from squatters, having a multi-layered security approach is essential. While CCTV cameras, motion-activated lights, and alarm systems are all important components, we highly recommend the security and durability of a steel door. Whether you’re looking for protection against forced entry, fire, or the elements, a high-quality steel door is the ultimate investment in home security.
So, if you’re serious about securing your property, take the first step today and explore our range of steel doors to find the perfect fit for your home.
Ready to enhance your home security? Browse our range of steel doors today to find the perfect solution for your property. Get in touch with us now to secure your home and enjoy peace of mind!
