5 DIY Home Security Upgrades Under $100

May 6

Written By Ian Haisler

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Keeping your home safe doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, some of the most effective home security upgrades are simple, affordable, and totally DIY-friendly. Whether you're a homeowner or a renter, these upgrades will give you peace of mind — and make your home a much harder target.

Let’s dive into 5 powerful home security upgrades you can do today — all for under $100.

1. Reinforce Your Doors

Your front door is your first and most critical line of defense. Most break-ins happen fast, and a quick kick is all it takes with a weak door frame.

DIY Fix: Install a door reinforcement kit like the [Door Armor MAX] (around $79). It strengthens your door jamb, lock area, and hinges, turning your door into a fortress.

⏱️ Install Time: ~30 minutes
🔧 Tools Needed: Screwdriver or drill

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget the back and side doors. Every entry counts.

2. Add Window Security Film

Glass may look strong, but a brick or hammer makes quick work of most windows. Security film is a powerful, affordable upgrade.

DIY Fix: Apply [BDF S8MC security film] (approx. $35 per roll). It makes glass resistant to shattering, giving you time and making a lot of noise.

⏱️ Install Time: ~1 hour
🔧 Tools Needed: Spray bottle, squeegee, utility knife

Bonus Tip: Apply it to sidelights and back windows — common targets for quick access.

3. Install Motion-Activated Lights

Burglars love darkness. Floodlights are your deterrent.

DIY Fix: Install a set of [LEONLITE 20W dual-head motion lights] (~$49). They turn on instantly when someone moves nearby, catching them off guard and alerting you or your neighbors.

⏱️ Install Time: 15–30 minutes
🔧 Tools Needed: Mounting hardware and optional wiring

Bonus Tip: Focus on garages, driveways, and side yards — not just your front porch.

4. Upgrade to a Smart Doorbell Camera

You don’t need a full alarm system to monitor your front door.

DIY Fix: Use a smart doorbell like the [Blink Video Doorbell + Mini Camera] (~$100). It lets you talk to visitors, watch for motion, and record activity — all from your phone.

⏱️ Install Time: 15–45 minutes
🔧 Tools Needed: Drill, smartphone

Bonus Tip: Pair it with Alexa or Google Assistant for full smart-home integration.

5. Use Simple Door & Window Alarms

Sometimes, all you need is a loud noise to send an intruder running.

DIY Fix: Add [GE Personal Security Window/Door Alarm Kit] (~$20 for a 4-pack). These peel-and-stick magnetic alarms trigger a piercing sound when opened.

⏱️ Install Time: ~5 minutes each
🔧 Tools Needed: None

Bonus Tip: Use them on basement doors, garages, and windows facing alleys or wooded areas.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need thousands of dollars or a monthly subscription to protect your home. These small upgrades make a big difference — and most cost less than dinner and a movie.

Each step you take makes your home less attractive to burglars… and gives you more control over your environment.

🛠️ Want Our Full Recommendations?

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👉 [Top Security Picks for 2025]

Ian Haisler