Home security is a big deal for most people. You want to feel safe in your own space. But sometimes, the things you do to make your house safer can actually make it less secure. It’s easy to fall for quick fixes or trendy hacks you see online. The problem is, not all DIY solutions work the way you think. Some can even put your home at risk. Here’s what you need to know about common DIY fixes that can backfire and make your house less secure.
1. Hiding a Spare Key Outside
It sounds smart. You don’t want to get locked out, so you hide a spare key under the doormat or in a fake rock. But burglars know all the usual spots. They check under flower pots, above door frames, and inside those plastic rocks. If someone finds your key, they can walk right in. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or invest in a secure lockbox. Don’t make it easy for someone to let themselves in.
2. Installing Cheap Smart Locks
Smart locks seem like a good upgrade. You can unlock your door with your phone or a code. But not all smart locks are created equal. Cheap models often have weak encryption or can be hacked with simple tools. Some can even be opened with a paperclip or a bump key. If you want a smart lock, choose one with strong security features and regular firmware updates. Otherwise, you might be making your house less secure, not more.
3. Using Single-Pane Windows
Replacing old windows is expensive, so some people just stick with single-pane glass. But single-pane windows are easy to break. They don’t offer much resistance to someone trying to get in. Even if you add a lock, the glass itself is the weak point. Upgrading to double-pane or laminated glass makes a big difference. It’s harder to break and can slow down or stop a break-in. If you can’t replace all your windows, focus on the most vulnerable spots, like basement or ground-floor windows.
4. DIY Security Camera Placement
Security cameras can help, but only if you put them in the right places. Many people install cameras too high, too low, or facing the wrong direction. Some point them at the sky or at a wall. Others put them where they’re easy to spot and disable. If a camera can’t see faces or entry points, it’s not doing much. And if it’s easy to reach, someone can just cover or break it. Place cameras at eye level near doors and windows, and make sure they’re protected from tampering.
5. Overdoing Privacy Fencing
Tall fences and thick hedges give you privacy. But they also give cover to someone trying to break in. If your yard is hidden from the street, a burglar can take their time. They know no one can see them. Instead of solid fences, consider open designs like metal bars or pickets. Trim bushes and trees near windows and doors. You want to balance privacy with visibility. Neighbors and passersby should be able to spot anything suspicious.
6. Relying on Fake Security Signs
Some people put up fake security company signs or stickers. The idea is to scare off burglars. But experienced criminals can spot fakes. They know which companies are real and which signs are generic. If you don’t have an actual alarm system, a sign won’t help much. It might even make you a target if someone thinks you’re bluffing. If you want to use signs, back them up with real security measures. Don’t rely on a sticker to protect your home.
7. Removing Doors for Open Concept
Open floor plans are popular. Some people even remove doors between rooms or from the garage to the house. This can make your home feel bigger, but it also removes barriers. If someone gets in, they have free access to the whole house. Doors slow people down and give you time to react. Keep solid doors on rooms that matter, like bedrooms and the door between the garage and the house. Use strong locks, too. An open concept shouldn’t mean open access.
Rethink Your DIY Security Habits
It’s easy to think you’re making your house safer with a few quick fixes. But some DIY solutions can actually make your house less secure. Hiding keys, using cheap smart locks, or putting up tall fences might seem smart, but they can backfire. Real security comes from understanding the risks and making smart choices. Take a look at your own home. Are any of these mistakes putting you at risk? Sometimes, the best fix is to keep it simple and stick with proven security basics.
Have you tried any of these DIY fixes? Did they work for you, or did you run into problems? Share your experience in the comments.
Read More
Why Your Homemade Cleaning Spray Might Be Destroying Your Air Quality
Why You Should Be Terrified of What’s in Your Tap Water
The post 7 DIY Fixes That Actually Make Your House Less Secure appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
