Anti-Burglary Hinges & Locks For Your Safety

When the days become shorter and the nights longer, there comes a time when we look for coziness at home. However, it is also the period in which more burglaries traditionally take place in the Netherlands. When the leaves fall and darkness sets in early, burglars find it easier to find their way into unsecured homes. This article is about the importance of good anti-burglary hinges and locks, so that you can feel safe in your own home, especially during these dark days.

What is Hinges & Locks?

You may be wondering, what exactly is hinges and locks? In fact, it is a collective name for all products used to open, close, lock and unlock doors and windows. This includes hinges, locks, latches, door handles and window latches. Choosing the right hinges and locks is crucial for the safety of your home. Not all hinges and locks are equally strong or burglar-resistant. You can recognize good hinges and locks by the SKG quality mark, which stands for the Foundation for Quality Gevelbouw. This quality mark indicates how burglar-resistant the material is. If you choose hinges and locks with at least two stars, this means that it will take a burglar at least three minutes to gain entry. This time is often enough to deter them.

However, installing good hinges and locks is more than just buying a good lock. It's about understanding how a burglar thinks and works. Burglars always look for the weakest link in a home's security. This could be a back door that is not properly closed, a window in a tilt position, or a lock that is easy to force. By putting yourself in the mindset of a burglar, you can protect your home more effectively.

What is Anti-Burglary?

But what exactly is anti-burglary in the context of hinges and locks? Anti-burglary refers to the measures taken to prevent theft, in this case burglary. It is not only about physical measures such as good locks, but also about awareness and behavior. An important aspect of anti-burglary protection is deterring potential burglars. This can be done by visibly good hinges and locks, but also by using, for example, outdoor lighting with motion sensors or an alarm system.

Another important aspect is reducing the opportunity for theft. This means that you ensure that your house is less attractive to burglars. You do this by not leaving valuables in plain view, always closing windows and doors, even when you are away for a short time, and by ensuring that your house appears occupied, even when you are not there. For example, consider using timers for your lighting.

Choosing the right hinges and locks is an important step in protecting against burglary, but it is only part of a broader anti-burglary policy. This policy also includes aspects such as social control (neighbors keeping an eye on things), visibility (good lighting around the house) and awareness (being aware of the latest burglary methods). Through a combination of physical security, awareness and behavioral measures, you make it as difficult as possible for burglars to enter your home unintentionally.

Which hinges & locks to use for anti-theft

Choosing the right hinges and locks is an essential step in protecting your home against burglaries. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which hinges and locks are best for your situation. Let's take a look at some important aspects you should consider.

First of all, pay attention to the aforementioned SKG quality mark .
This quality mark indicates how burglar-resistant the product is. Hinges and locks with three stars offer the highest level of security and are independently able to keep a burglar out for at least five minutes. There are also products with two or one stars, which are effective in combination with other security measures. It is important to choose products that suit the specific needs of your home and the environment in which you live.

Another important point is the type of lock. Cylinder locks are the most common locks in Dutch homes. These locks are available in different security levels and sizes. For optimal security, it is advisable to choose cylinder locks that are protected against popular burglary methods such as lock picking, cylinder pulling and the impact key method.

In addition, it is important not only to focus on the front door.
Make sure that all access points to your home, such as back doors, windows, sliding doors and basement windows, have good hinges and locks. For example, keyed window locks provide additional security for windows that are otherwise easy to open. It is also advisable to place anti-burglary strips in places where the door and frame meet, to make it more difficult for burglars to force the door. Finally, don't forget that maintaining your hardware is just as important as initially choosing it. Check regularly whether everything still works properly and is not worn out. In case of wear or damage, it is wise to replace the hinges and locks. By paying attention to these points, you can ensure that your home is as safe as possible against unwanted guests.

Can I install anti-burglary hinges and locks myself?

Installing anti-burglary hinges and locks yourself is possible, but it requires some do-it-yourself skills and the right tools. Before you start, it's important to know which type of locks and security equipment are suitable for your doors and windows. The process involves precise measuring, drilling and fastening, which requires precision and patience. Instructional videos and manuals can be of great help. However, if you are unsure of your skills or your home has more complex security needs, it may be better to call in a professional.

Have anti-burglary hinges & locks installed

If you are not comfortable installing locks and hinges yourself, or if your home requires additional security measures, it is best to call in a professional lock installation service . An expert can advise you on the best products for your situation and ensure a correct and safe installation. This is especially important for advanced locks or when you want to provide your entire home with new security. A professional installation guarantees that your hinges and locks function optimally and often also offers extra warranty and service.

Buy Anti-Burglary Hinges & Locks Online

Purchasing anti-burglary hardware online is an easy and often economical option. There are numerous online stores that offer a wide range of security products. Make sure you buy from a reliable supplier and check whether the products meet Dutch safety standards and have the SKG quality mark. Also read reviews and experiences from other customers. Remember to check the specifications of the products to ensure they are suitable for your home.

In addition to your doors, don't forget to secure your windows against theft.

Choosing the right anti-burglary hinges and locks is an important step in protecting your home against burglary. Whether you choose self-installation or professional installation, the most important thing is that you choose products that meet high safety standards and that suit the specific needs of your home. By taking the right measures, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from unwanted intruders, especially during the dark winter months.