by Frank Fourchalk

Don't let your wants outweigh your needs when purchasing a new home. As a security consultant, it's hard for me to comprehend that home buyers are more interested in crown moulding than in ensuring home security using an appropriate security system. Potential buyers are more likely to notice recessed ceilings and granite countertops than the viability of their security system. This mindset has become accepted because home buyers focus on the superficial. Let's face it, décor sells and home security does not!

But home buyers need to reassess their priorities to make a significant difference in home security. I'm always amazed that home buyers spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to purchase a new home, fill it with all their worldly possessions, and lock everything with a sub par security system.

I'm not saying to stop looking at beautiful bathrooms and kitchens. However, you do need to add good home security to your priority list to stay safer. New homes are a by-product of supply and demand. We need to emphasize home security in order to receive it as standard. If homebuyers start demanding more stringent measures, then the industry's priorities will change.

Full-coverage security systems should be standard equipment in new homes, with appropriate home security apparatus on all windows and doors, including upstairs. Ingrid McCallum, marketing director for Townwood Homes, says "we pre-wire all main floor openings, not including the basement. In the case of a home having a walk-out basement, the openings at grade level at the rear of the home would be pre-wired. In the case of a deck lot, the same would apply as well to the sliding doors from the deck. If home buyers wish to add more pre-wired openings or install an alarm, we send them directly to the company who handles the job."

All exterior doors should be solid wood construction, assuring a sturdy surface for the installation of an appropriate home security deadbolt. This dynamic combination will guarantee maximum protection against any attempted forced entry.

All locks come with informational brochures. Any new home buyer should ask their builder or real estate agent to supply you with them. Read the specifications and familiarize yourself with the lock hardware. If you do not understand the information, go to your local locksmith for an expert opinion. Home security companies and door manufacturers offer the same type of material, so take advantage of this accessible information.

Home buyers should know that, although most thieves prefer the quiet approach to a break-in, some will enter in a blood-and-guts fashion by breaking windows. For this reason alone, it's important to be aware of the type of glass your builder has installed. Tempered or laminate glass is a wiser choice than annealed float glass.

Sliding glass doors should be secured with strong auxiliary locks and anti-lift shims in the top of the frame to prevent prying and lifting. Out-swinging doors should have full-length astragals (strips of metal) to seal off the gap between the door and the frame, which increases home security and prevents would-be burglars from prying between them to gain entry.

How about installing a video intercom at the front door? This product allows you to view and speak to visitors without having to open the door.With the decreasing costs of this technology, you have every reason to include one of these units as standard equipment.

Looking beyond the beauty of your new home will safeguard you and your family for many years to come.

Please check my website at www.yourhomesecurity.ca for more information.