I've always been a DIY guy. Long before I ever heard or read the term DIY, I was a DIY guy. Starting and finishing projects brings me great satisfaction and seems to boost my self esteem. These days, I don't have time to do everything myself. I pay somebody to mow my lawn, to rake my leaves, and even to do other home projects.

However, there are a few projects that I won't let others do for me. Home security is one of these projects. I feel that do it yourself home security is a skill that everybody should have. Doing the work yourself ensures that you will get the full benefit of the project. When you have an outsider secure your home, you have to be sure you can trust that person completely. I don't trust strangers to come into my home and setup my security, because I know it gives them the ability to check everything out themselves.

How do you know that the guy installing your alarm system won't disable it later when they know you are not home and easy pickings for a would be robber?

Throughout the last couple of years I've installed surveillance cameras, home security lighting, alarms, and even door reinforcements. My yard even has zone alarm systems that alert me to intruders coming through my back yard. The entire system did not cost much and does not have monthly bills associated with it. My home owners insurance has also gone down. Insurance companies love home owners that have secured their homes with alarm systems and they are willing to give them discounts on their insurance.

Do it yourself home security really isn't that difficult. I started with the basics and worked my way up to the harder projects. I found that reinforcing the doors was the easiest project of all. An hour or two of work and a little bit of money will dramatically reduce the chances of your door being kicked in while you are sleeping. Buy a little drill, some screws, and some door reinforcement and you are all set.

Next I took advantage of outdoor solar lighting and used that to create home security lighting. This was inexpensive and makes my yard look great at night. Additionally, your less likely to fall while walking around your yard at night.

After this, I finished up my do it yourself home security with cameras and alarm systems. They cost a bit more, but make me feel safe and secure. Even though I had to pinch pennies for a little while to get the money to buy these last two items, I now know that my loved ones have all the protection and security I can give them. I'd pay any cost to keep my family safe.