"SafeStreets’ alarm system is fantastic. The motion sensors, door/window contacts, and cameras work flawlessly. The home automation features are a huge plus—I can control everything from my phone. Highly recommend SafeStreets to anyone looking for reliable security."
"Last weekend had someone pry our side door open to our exterior garage and the ADT door sensor picked it up immediately. The alarm siren was loud and scared the person off. Someone from the response center called within 30 seconds. We’re fortunate that the security system did what it is supposed to. Feels like we made the right call going with an ADT security system."
"Very well! They were very responsive and offered to send a person out the same day but due to the amount of work thought it might be better to start it first thing the next morning. The gentleman they sent was very professional and did an excellent job of installing the new door."
A&A Awnings and Storm Shutters was founded in 1981 and sells retractable awnings, fixed awnings and storm shutters to commercial and residential markets throughout the Mid-Atlantic. We are the area's value and quality leader. Our happy customers keep coming back and referring their friends and associates because of our great service, beautiful and durable custom products and options to help accommodate every budget.. Ask about our lifetime warranty and offer of a free motor with every retractable awning purchase ($550 value). \n\n Call us today with all your awning and storm shutter needs.
"This worked out great. Richard followed up on my request right away and set up an appountment for the following day. He said to buy the locks I want (he made some brand recommmendations) and he would work with whatever choices I wanted. When he arrived I actually had additional locks I was hoping to install, along with a keypad lock and he not only had no problem with the change in plans but took the time to explain everything he was doing and why (some damage to the doors required a change of plans). He took his time, listened to my requests and did great work. Overall this was fast, friendly service and I felt his price was very fair. Would 100% use Richard again without hesitation."
"Delivery was delayed due to credit inquiry. After the concern was raised, shipment was rushed to us. Self installation didn't go as easy. Issue was resolved over the phone. The glass break sensor was a bit sensitive to loud noise such as cabinet door closing and door sensor repeatedly falls off and had to be reattached. Notification of alarm activation was fast and made to the right contact numbers. This prevented false alarm calls to the police."
"It's all very user friendly and reliable. Jeremy helped get us setup with our new system - he was great, very informative and candid. Larry came out and installed everything, and he was a pleasure. I totally recommend 1st Security USA to anyone in the Washington DC metro area."
"We have our second home in the mountain so they were able to send it and he was able to work with our installers and it worked out fine. So far we were are pleased with it. We were with another security system for 12 years and we changed because their selection of product was of a higher grade. They are excellent."
"We like their service. We haven't had any problems. They are very good. This was the first time we've had an alarm/security system in our home. The supplier is ADT. I like that I can set my alarm every night before I go to bed."
"Dana was wonderful. We had a hole in our living room ceiling from plumbing leak that was repaired. He came out over the weekend to assess the issue and came back and did a great job. As a bonus, he fixed our front door that was sticking while he was at it. All in all, we are very happy with the work done and would definitely hire again."
This is the topic of much debate, though there is no “better,” as it depends on personal preferences. Some of the components of a wireless system keep working when the power goes out, as they are battery-powered. On the other hand, a wireless system typically connects to your modem and router. Wired systems use landlines to communicate, which never go out on their own unless they’re physically cut.
The biggest downside to a wireless security camera is that it's 100% reliant on Wi-Fi to capture footage at your home. Even when Wi-Fi is reliable, the range for wireless cameras may only be 200 feet or less. Drywall, brick, and other materials in your home can be enough to make your signal lag.
Strike plates and security plates are the same thing, but there are strike plates that offer more security than others. For the highest security, look for plates made of heavy-duty steel, reinforced strike plates thicker than regular ones, and extended strike plates. It’s much harder to break into a door with these strike plates because they hold up better to force from attempted entry.
Home automation systems offer a wide range of automation products and services. Some of the most popular options include:
Cameras: $35–$350
Door and window sensors: $20–$100
Doorbells: $100–$350
Locks: $150–$400
Garage door openers: $150–$500
Lighting: $20–$100
Speakers: $30–$300
Outlets and plugs: $20–$100
Thermostats: $150–$300
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: $50–$150
Smart home hubs: $200–$900
Blinds: $50–$75
Appliances: $50–$3,000
Vacuums: $200–$1,200
Lawn systems: $80–$300
Wi-Fi and Mesh systems: $200–$500
Water monitoring: $100–$1,000
One significant drawback of home automation is the increased risk of cybersecurity threats. With more connected devices in our homes, there's a greater chance that hackers might try to exploit vulnerabilities to access personal data or even control your devices. If you don't secure your smart gadgets properly, they can become entry points for cyberattacks, risking your privacy and safety. Moreover, technology isn't perfect. Sometimes, systems can malfunction or experience connectivity issues, disrupting your daily routines. The upfront cost of buying and installing smart devices can also be a hurdle for some people.
The Midlothian, VA homeowners’ guide to security door installation services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Whether you’re installing a new door or replacing an existing one, the cost of door installation varies based on location, door type, framing needs, and other factors.
If you’re looking to enhance the security and style of your home, a security door is a smart investment. With many options to choose from, they often look like a regular front door, but stronger. Learn the pros and cons of security doors.
Keeping you and your home protected with fortified exterior doors doesn’t always mean replacing your door entirely. This guide will give you a few ways to strengthen your door and frame and make it resistant to forced entry.
To keep your property and loved ones safe, you might consider a security door for exterior entry points. Learn how to install a security door yourself.
