As a consumer, there is much you can do to protect yourself, and buying $200 locks is not the answer! While these locks might deter picking and bump key break-ins, there is still a weakness in the door and door jamb, where the wood is hollowed out to nest the deadbolt and strike; these are the points that yield under the pressure of a straight kick-in.
What can I do to protect my home?
Why spend $200 on expensive locks, when you cannot afford a false sense of security? Here’s what we at Texas LockStar recommend: 1) Make sure your existing deadbolt hardware is not loosely hanging on the door. 2) Check to make sure your deadbolt strike is inserting properly into the door jamb. 3) Anti-Bump proof your locks by asking your locksmith, to install an anti-bump kit in your exterior deadbolt locks. 4) Ask your locksmith to reinforce your door, door jamb, and hinges; on all exterior doors and we highly recommend Door Jamb Armor EZ. The cost is about the same as a $200 lock (prices vary for double doors, etc.) and your sense of security is real.We hope you find our advice helpful. Feel free to contact us anytime you need advice. We promise never to sell you something you simply don’t need.
Be aware of parked cars on your street, and people in them that may be looking for patterns on your departures. Try to mix up your routine instead of standing appointments that make your departures predictable. In the above example, the woman had a standing 10:30 am appointment every Friday at the salon. It’s very likely her burglars happened to notice her at the beauty salon and then followed her back home.