If you had to rig up your own home security on a tight budget, what would you do?

Title: If you had to rig up your own home security on a tight budget, what would you do?

I get the appeal of using shrubs and solar lights - they’re pretty effective for what they are, and you don’t have to shell out for a fancy system. But I’ll admit, I’m a bit skeptical about relying too much on “natural” barriers. Maybe it’s just me, but I’ve seen enough overgrown hedges in older neighborhoods that end up being more of a hiding spot than a deterrent if you’re not on top of the upkeep. That accidental workout you mentioned? Yeah, I think some folks just give up and let nature take over.

If I had to do it on the cheap, I’d probably go with a combo: motion sensor lights (solar if possible), some thorny plants by the windows (nothing says “stay out” like a face full of holly), and maybe reinforce doors/windows with better locks. I get what you mean about fake cameras - one or two is fine, but if it looks like a movie set, it’s just weird. I guess the trick is blending in without looking like you’re trying too hard.

- Totally agree about the shrubs - if you don’t keep them trimmed, they’re just a free hiding spot. I’ve seen it happen on my block more than once.
- Motion lights are a must. I’d add window alarms too; you can get those stick-on ones for cheap and they’re loud enough to scare off most people.
- Reinforcing doors is underrated. Even just longer screws in the strike plate makes a difference.
- I’m with you on fake cameras - one or two is fine, but if you go overboard, it just looks sketchy. Real deterrent is making it look like someone’s always home. Timer lights, maybe a radio left on... simple stuff works.

I get the whole “make it look like someone’s home” thing, but honestly, if you’re living somewhere nice, that can only go so far. People casing houses can spot timer lights a mile away. I’d argue spending a little more on a decent video doorbell or smart lock is totally worth it - sometimes you find good deals used or open-box. And about those stick-on window alarms: they’re better than nothing, but I’ve had a few false alarms from pets or just slamming doors. Reinforcing entry points is smart though, and not enough people do it.

People casing houses can spot timer lights a mile away.

That’s definitely true - those old-school timer tricks are pretty easy to pick out, especially if you’re in a newer development where everything’s kind of uniform. I’ve seen folks underestimate how much a solid deadbolt and reinforced strike plate can do. I once swapped all my exterior screws for 3” ones and it made a huge difference - cheap, quick, and way more effective than those stick-on alarms that go off every time my dog jumps at the window. Smart locks are great, but physical reinforcement is still underrated.

TITLE: If You Had To Rig Up Your Own Home Security On A Tight Budget, What Would You Do?

I’m with you on the deadbolts and longer screws - honestly, it’s wild how many builders still use those tiny half-inch screws in strike plates. Swapping them out is one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner” things. I’ve also found that just having a couple of motion sensor lights outside (not the ones on timers, but the ones that actually react to movement) makes a difference. They’re not expensive and they don’t scream “nobody’s home” like timers sometimes do.

Curious if anyone’s tried those fake security cameras? I’ve heard mixed things - some folks say they’re a decent deterrent, others think they’re pointless since anyone serious can spot them. Personally, I’d rather invest in a real camera if possible, but maybe there’s a clever way to use both? Just thinking about layering up cheap options...