Home Security

A good home is a safe home. But making your happy place more secure goes beyond high-tech automation systems and guard dogs—you need strong windows, doors, locks, and even landscaping to sure up weak spots in your current deterrent systems. Browse our library of expert guidance to help protect your home and the ones you love the most.

Photo: fizkes / Adobe Stock
Photo: fizkes / Adobe Stock
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From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A home terrace in the night
Oct 3, 2024
Oct 3, 2024
Motion-sensor lighting costs vary greatly because they have so many customizations available. Learn more by using this cost guide about motion-sensor lights.
A white smoke detector is mounted on a ceiling in a modern home for fire and safety protection.
Aug 14, 2025
Aug 14, 2025
Discover how much smoke detector installation costs. Understand your out-of-pocket expenses so you can protect your family and home.
House with two security cameras
Oct 16, 2024
Oct 16, 2024
A security camera system gives you peace of mind that there’s always a watchful eye on your home. Learn the costs of installing surveillance cameras.
Entrance doorbell in a multi-apartment building
Oct 23, 2024
Oct 23, 2024
Learn how to install a doorbell camera—whether it’s wired or wireless—with this guide. Know the steps so you can decide whether to DIY the job or hire a pro.
Small suburban house with gray siding
Sep 30, 2024
Sep 30, 2024
There are many types of window alarm sensors. Find out which is right for you in our easy-to-read guide.
Son unlocks smart lock on door as family looks on
Oct 14, 2024
Oct 14, 2024
Keyless doors help grant access—when you want it—to your home, but are they safe? Learn about their pros and cons before adding them to your home’s security.
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A white smoke detector is mounted on a ceiling in a modern home for fire and safety protection.
Discover how much smoke detector installation costs. Understand your out-of-pocket expenses so you can protect your family and home.
A shiny silver handle and deadbolt on a dark wooden door slightly ajar, with light peeking through
Is your key stuck, and you need to know how to lubricate your lock? Look no further. This article outlines 10 ways to unstick a lock without calling a locksmith.
A set of keys hangs from a key in the brass lock of a wooden door with a black handle
Chances are, if you need to know how to get out a key stuck in a lock, you need a quick and easy solution. Try these easy DIY options so you can move on.
A man in a collared shirt walks into a home, pushing a button on a wall-mounted security keypad next to the front door.
This guide will help you disconnect a home alarm system, whether you’re installing a new system or just want old electronics out of your house.
Mother and young son cooking together
Cooking, smoking, electrical issues, malfunctioning alarms, and other hazards can lead to deadly house fires. Follow these tips to prevent fires from happening.
Man standing on a ladder replacing the battery in a ceiling-mounted smoke detector.
Every homeowner should learn how to replace a hardwired smoke alarm, which you must do at least every decade. This guide will talk you through the process.
A white residential fire sprinkler head is mounted on a white ceiling next to a small recessed light
If you’re looking to increase your home’s protection against fires, use this guide to explore home fire sprinkler system costs and what can impact the price.
A ceiling-mounted smoke detector with a glowing red indicator light signals active status or alert mode.
Don't ignore your smoke detector if it has flashing red lights. It could indicate a problem that needs immediate attention. Here's how to tell what to do.
A contemporary wooden front door has a modern black and stainless steel keypad lock and a handle
Keypad door locks come in many models, both electrically powered and not. No matter which one you have, it’s easy to learn how to reset a door lock of any kind.
A rich, reddish-brown wooden front door with decorative glass panels and a black ornate handle set, next to a gray wall with house numbers
Locked out of your car or home? Need to rekey your house? Here’s how much a locksmith costs and what you need to know before calling one.
A couple relaxing on their sofa
Stay warm and safe with these 9 essential space heater safety tips to prevent fires, protect kids or pets, and keep your home cozy all winter long.
Safe box on bookshelf
How much does a safe cost? Discover average prices, installation fees, and key cost factors to help you choose the right safe for your home.