Best Home Security Practices for Buffalo’s Older Homes

Buffalo is known for its historic charm — from stately Victorian houses in Allentown to early 20th-century builds scattered across the city. These homes have character, but they also come with unique vulnerabilities when it comes to safety and security.

Older doors, outdated windows, and original locks can leave properties more susceptible to break-ins if not properly upgraded. The good news is that with the right security practices, you can enjoy your home’s history while still protecting your family and belongings.

Here are the best ways to secure older homes in Buffalo.

Reinforce Original Doors and Locks

Many Buffalo homes still have their original wooden doors and locks. While beautiful, these features aren’t always strong enough to resist a forced entry.

• Upgrade locks: Replace old knob locks with modern deadbolts and consider smart locks for added convenience.

• Door frames: Reinforce the strike plate and frame to prevent kick-ins.

• Back/side doors: Don’t forget less-used entrances — burglars target these first.

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If you want to preserve your home’s historic look, you can find lock upgrades designed to match older aesthetics while offering modern strength.

Secure Windows Without Sacrificing Character

Historic homes often feature original wood-framed windows, stained glass, or large panes that are easier to force open than modern double-pane units.

• Window locks: Install updated locks on all ground-level windows.

• Security film: Apply protective film that makes glass harder to shatter.

• Sensors: Use window sensors connected to a monitored alarm system for instant alerts.

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These solutions preserve your home’s character while making it much harder for burglars to gain access.

Add Smart Lighting for Curb Appeal and Safety

Buffalo’s older homes often sit on tree-lined streets or have recessed entryways, which can create dark hiding spots. Proper lighting is one of the simplest — and most effective — deterrents.

• Motion-sensor lights around doors, garages, and backyards.

• Smart bulbs that can be scheduled to turn on at dusk or when you’re away.

• Landscape lighting that adds both beauty and security.

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Well-lit homes not only discourage crime but also highlight the architectural details that make Buffalo’s older houses so appealing.

Protect Basements and Side Entrances

Many older Buffalo homes have multiple entrances, including basement doors and side porches. These are often overlooked but are prime targets for intruders.

• Reinforce or replace older basement doors.

• Install contact sensors on all lesser-used doors.

• Add a camera or floodlight to watch over side entrances.

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These simple upgrades close common gaps in security.

Use Security Cameras Thoughtfully

Installing cameras doesn’t mean taking away from your home’s historic charm. Today’s models are sleek and discreet, making it easy to blend them into your property’s design.

• Doorbell cameras are especially helpful for monitoring front entrances and package deliveries.

• Wireless options allow installation without drilling into old plaster walls.

• Indoor cameras provide extra peace of mind while you’re away.

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Cameras not only deter burglars but also provide valuable evidence in case of an incident.

Consider Fire and Environmental Monitoring

Security isn’t just about break-ins. Older homes may also be at higher risk for electrical fires, gas leaks, or flooding from aging plumbing.

A modern monitored system can:

• Detect smoke and carbon monoxide early.

• Alert you to flooding in the basement.

• Dispatch emergency services automatically.

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These upgrades protect both your family and the historic property you’ve invested in.

The Value of Professional Monitoring

While DIY security systems are common, older homes often benefit from a professional approach. Between multiple entry points, complex layouts, and unique vulnerabilities, having experts design and monitor your system ensures nothing is missed.

With 24/7 professional monitoring, help is on the way the moment something happens — whether you’re at work, traveling, or asleep upstairs.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo’s older homes are a treasure — but they need more than charm to stay safe. By reinforcing doors and windows, adding smart lighting, securing overlooked entrances, and installing a monitored security system, you can enjoy your historic property without compromising on protection.

At Advanced Alarm, we’ve been helping Buffalo homeowners protect what matters most for decades. Whether you own a Victorian in Allentown, a Craftsman in Elmwood Village, or a historic farmhouse outside the city, our team can customize a security solution that fits your home’s unique needs.

Protect your piece of Buffalo’s history. Contact Advanced Alarm today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help secure your older home.