Having a baby makes you look at home security differently. Suddenly, the back door may not feel as secure as you once thought. That spare key under the doormat now seems too easy to find. Even the front door lock may look less sturdy than you assumed.
The solution is simple: make a few smart home security upgrades. Here are some practical tips for new parents in Montgomery County, Bucks County, and Philadelphia County.
Rekey Your Home Locks
If you recently moved or haven’t changed your locks since buying the house, rekeying offers an easy way to improve security. A locksmith changes the internal mechanisms of your existing locks so older keys no longer work. You’ll receive a new set of keys, while every previous copy becomes useless.
In most cases, you won’t need to replace the entire lockset, which saves time and money. A locksmith can typically rekey each door in about 20 minutes. Afterward, only authorized people will have working keys to your property.
Consider rekeying if contractors, cleaning services, former tenants, or other people previously had access to your home.
Replace Your Front Door Locks
Many homes in the area still have standard deadbolts that the original homeowner or developer installed. Unfortunately, these locks may not provide the strongest protection.
Consider upgrading to a high-security deadbolt with:
- ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 certification
- A reinforced strike plate with 3-inch screws
- Drilling resistance
- Anti-pick pins
This upgrade adds another layer of protection to your front door, which burglars often target first.
Install a Smart Lock
Carrying a baby, diaper bag, and keys while trying to open the door can quickly become frustrating. A smart lock simplifies the process by letting you unlock the door with a code, smartphone, or fingerprint. You won’t need to scramble for your keys while your hands are full.
Smart locks also give you more control over who enters your home. For example, you can create temporary codes for caregivers, monitor access, lock the door remotely, and remove a person’s access when necessary.
D Express Locksmith installs a variety of smart locks. Tell us what features you want, and we’ll help you choose the best option for your home and budget.
Check Your Back Door and Garage
The front door receives most of the attention, but intruders may also target the back door or garage. Check that your back door has a strong deadbolt and that your garage door closes securely.
If a connecting door leads from the garage into your home, keep it locked at all times. You can strengthen vulnerable entry points with better deadbolts, upgraded hardware, and reinforcing plates.
Don’t overlook your windows, especially those on the ground floor. Many older homes throughout Ambler, Lansdale, Horsham, and Blue Bell still have outdated or unreliable window locks. Test every ground-floor window to confirm that its lock works properly. For additional protection, consider adding a keyed lock or security pin that prevents someone from lifting the window out of its frame.
If you’re unsure about the security of your back door, garage, or windows, contact us for a professional assessment.
Why You Should Work With a Local Company
Although this article focuses on preparing your home for a new baby, these security tips can benefit every homeowner. When you need a locksmith, choosing a local company offers several advantages.
D Express Locksmith operates from Ambler and serves homeowners throughout the surrounding communities every day. Our team understands the different types of homes across the area, including older properties in Glenside, newer developments in Blue Bell, and rowhomes in Philadelphia.
Because we work locally, we can come to you, complete the job efficiently, and improve your home’s security with solutions that fit the property.
D Express Locksmith has served the area for more than 15 years. We also maintain a BBB A rating and carry full insurance. These qualifications matter when you trust someone with your home’s security, especially when you have a newborn inside.
What to Do Next
If you’re expecting a baby or recently became a parent, follow these steps to improve your home’s security:
- Call D Express Locksmith at (267) 551-6815 to schedule a home security assessment.
- Our locksmith will evaluate your doors and locks before recommending practical improvements.
- In many cases, our team can complete rekeying, deadbolt upgrades, and smart lock installation during the same visit.
- Once the work is finished, you can feel confident that your home has reliable protection.
To learn more about our residential locksmith services in Montgomery County, Bucks County, and Philadelphia County, visit dexpresslock.com. Your home’s security remains our top priority.
FAQs
How long does a typical home security upgrade take?
Most homeowners only need to rekey or upgrade locks on two or three doors, which usually takes about an hour. Installing a smart lock may take additional time, depending on the system and the condition of the door. We’ll give you an accurate estimate before starting the work.
Should I rekey or replace my locks?
In most cases, we recommend starting with rekeying. This quick and affordable process prevents all previous keys from working. We’ll suggest replacing a lock only when the existing hardware is broken, obsolete, or unable to provide adequate security.
Can you install smart locks on older doors?
Yes. Most smart locks fit standard residential doors. In some cases, our locksmith may need to make minor adjustments to the door or hardware. During the security assessment, we’ll check compatibility and explain your available options.
Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?
Yes. D Express Locksmith provides 24/7 mobile locksmith services. We understand that new parents often have limited scheduling flexibility. Call us at (267) 551-6815, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your schedule.
How much does a home security upgrade cost?
The cost depends on the services you choose, such as rekeying, deadbolt upgrades, smart lock installation, or a combination of improvements. Our team provides competitive, transparent pricing and gives you a quote before starting any work. You won’t encounter hidden fees.