Considering that the front door is how a third of break-ins occur, it’s important to ensure that your entryway is not a beacon inviting intruders to break-in. Most people would be surprised to learn that break-ins don’t just happen. Contrary to popular belief, successful criminals put a lot of thought and planning into carrying out a crime. There are five specific things that criminals look for when deciding to break into a home. This list is not exhaustive, but it will give you an idea if your home is at risk and whether or not you need replacement of exterior doors.

1. Spare Keys – Criminals will watch a home before deciding to break in. This means if you use a spare key to get in to your home, they may know where you have it hidden because they have watched you for some time. Similarly, if you use a code to enter your home, they may have it memorized from watching you enter. For this reason, be aware of your surroundings when hiding your spare key, and change the location periodically. Also, change the code on the key pad for your exterior doors routinely so that your home will not be vulnerable.
2. Weak Doors –Old wooden doors may be come weak over time and are susceptible to break-ins because the can easily be kicked down. Other people to save money will buy doors that are not as strong and thereby put their homes at risk. Criminals look for these types of doors knowing they provide little resistance. You don’t want a door that looks weak and easy to get in to. Likewise, broken hinges are a sure sign that gaining access to your home will be an easy feat.  If your door is weak or worn, you will want to look in to replacement entry doors. Click here for more information.
3. Unlit – Many intrusions occur under the cover of darkness. If your entry way does not have a source of light to illuminate it, then it will become a target for would be invaders. You should have a porch light to keep your entryway from being dark and providing places for someone to hide. Also, keep your entrance way shrubbery pruned and groomed so that they do not obscure your entryway.
4. Single Lock– Unless your lock is a bolt lock, your home could be at risk if the only thing standing between your home and a criminal is a traditional door lock. Unfortunately, these locks are no longer sufficient at keeping out intruders as many people have discovered ways to break through these locks. Even if you have a bolt lock, it may be a good to add another one to your exterior doors for security purposes.