Home security is not achieved by installing one item that will magically protect your domicile against criminals. Instead, it is achieved by adding multiple protective layers that your home a less attractive target to a criminal. One way to harden your home is to install better entry gates, which is what I did a few weeks ago.

Like many homes in Arizona, I have a side gate that leads to my front door. The one I had was from 1991 when the house was built and had no locking mechanism. It didn’t provide any real security and didn’t look good either. I wanted to replace it to both increase security and make my home look better, so I decided to begin the process. It took a while but the result has been worth it.

The first step was to find a fabricator who could build a solid yet stylish gate. One of the major ones in Phoenix is Ironman Pool Fence so I gave them a call. I worked with one of their representatives to sketch out a design that met my needs. Since I have a Home Owners Association (HOA) I had to have the plans approved by them before fabrication could begin. Once that was done, it was a matter of payment and arranging an installation date.

In addition to the gate, I had to figure out what lock mechanism to use. I decided to get a Schlage Digital Keypad deadbolt and pair it with a light commercial duty Schlage handset. That way, I could have the deadbolt keyed to match my front door, set digital combinations, and create a gardner key that only opened the exterior deadbolt. I gave Ironman the hardware so they could ensure the lockbox was the correct size for these items.

It all came together a few weeks ago when the installation took place. Instead of opening inward, I had my new gate open outward to make it impossible to kick in. The locks were a snap to install and everything looked great, it felt great to get this done. My home is also more secure because I have added another layer that protect me and my property. Installing a new front gate is another way of hardening your home that I recommend.