🏠 Ultimate Home Security Guide for Arlington, Texas Residents
After protecting Arlington homes for 20+ years, I'm sharing the exact security system I'd use for my own family—including what works in Texas heat and what doesn't.
Arlington consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in DFW, but home burglaries still happen—especially in neighborhoods near I-20 and Highway 360. As someone who's responded to countless break-ins and installed security systems across Arlington, I'm giving you the no-BS guide to protecting your home.
📊 Arlington Home Security Stats (2024)
- • 68% of burglaries happen during the day (9am-3pm)
- • Average break-in lasts just 8-12 minutes
- • 60% of burglars enter through front/back doors
- • 23% enter through first-floor windows
- • Most targeted: homes near highways & construction sites
🔐 Part 1: The Foundation – Locks That Actually Work
Front Door Security (Your #1 Weak Spot)
Most Arlington homes I visit have builder-grade locks that cost $15 at Home Depot. A determined burglar can pick these in under 60 seconds. Here's what I recommend instead:
✅ Recommended: Deadbolt Upgrade
Best Choice: Schlage B60N or Kwikset 980 (Grade 1 ANSI rated)
Why:
- Pick-resistant pins
- Hardened steel bolt (1-inch throw)
- Withstands 10+ kicks/strikes
- Works in Texas heat (won't warp or stick)
💰 Cost: $150-200 installed • ROI: Priceless peace of mind
🔧 Pro Tip for Arlington Homes:
Many Arlington homes (especially built 1990-2010) have hollow-core doors. Even the best lock won't help if the door breaks. Consider upgrading to a solid wood or steel door—I've seen it stop multiple break-in attempts!
Sliding Glass Doors (Back Patio Security)
Arlington homes love those big glass doors leading to the backyard. Problem: standard locks are incredibly weak. Solutions:
🚪 Charley Bar
Metal bar that sits in the track. Simple but effective. $20-40.
🔒 Pin Lock
Drill through frame and door, insert pin. Can't be lifted off track. $15.
🛡️ Security Film
Makes glass nearly shatter-proof. Great for Texas hailstorms too! $200-500.
⚡ Smart Lock
Get alerts if door opens. August or Yale brands. $150-300.
📹 Part 2: Smart Home Security for Arlington Homes
I get asked about this constantly: "Should I get Ring? ADT? DIY?" Here's my honest take after installing hundreds of systems across Arlington:
🏆 Best Security Camera Systems for Arlington
1. Ring Alarm Pro + Cameras
Best For: DIY homeowners who want simplicity
Cost: $300-600 (no monthly fees if self-monitoring)
Arlington Bonus: Works great with local WiFi, integrates with Alexa
2. ADT Command System
Best For: Full professional monitoring + fast police response
Cost: $45-60/month
Arlington Bonus: Direct connection to Arlington PD, cellular backup
3. Eufy Security System
Best For: Tech-savvy users who want local storage
Cost: $400-800 (one-time, no monthly fees)
Arlington Bonus: Handles Texas heat well, 2K resolution, no cloud needed
🌳 Part 3: Arlington-Specific Security Tips
Living in Arlington has unique challenges (and advantages). Here's what I tell my neighbors:
🚗 Garage Security
The Problem: Arlington is a car-dependent city. Burglars know your garage likely connects to your house—it's an easy entry point.
The Fix: Treat your garage-to-house door like your front door. Deadbolt, solid core, the works. Also, never leave garage door opener in your car—burglars break car windows at Parks Mall, steal openers, and hit your house that same day.
🏘️ Neighborhood Watch
Best Arlington Neighborhoods: Dalworthington Gardens, Meadowbrook, and West Arlington have active Nextdoor communities. Join yours!
Red Flag: If you live near I-20, Highway 360, or construction zones, you're statistically more likely to be targeted (easy escape routes for thieves).
☀️ Texas Heat Considerations
Don't buy cheap electronics! I've seen $30 Wyze cams melt in Arlington summer heat. Stick with brands rated for -20°F to 130°F. Also, battery-powered systems drain faster in heat—check them monthly.
⚠️ Common Mistakes Arlington Homeowners Make
❌ Don't Do This:
- ❌ Hiding spare keys under rocks/mats: Burglars check there first. Use a lockbox or give a key to a trusted neighbor instead.
- ❌ Posting vacation photos on Facebook in real-time: You're literally advertising an empty home. Post after you're back!
- ❌ Leaving boxes from expensive purchases at the curb: That 75" TV box? You're inviting thieves. Break down boxes or take to recycling center.
- ❌ Not trimming bushes near windows: Overgrown landscaping = hiding spots. Keep bushes below window level.
- ❌ Forgetting to lock the door from garage to house: I can't tell you how many break-ins happen this way in Arlington!
💰 What Should You Budget for Home Security?
💵 Arlington Home Security Budget Guide
Basic Protection
Deadbolts + door reinforcement + window locks
$200-400
Intermediate Security
Basic + doorbell camera + motion lights
$500-800
Advanced System
Intermediate + full camera system + smart locks
$1,000-2,500
Professional Monitoring
Monthly fee for 24/7 monitoring + police dispatch
$30-60/mo
✅ Your Arlington Home Security Checklist
Print this out and check off each item. Takes about 2 hours and $200-500 to complete:
🔒 Ready to Secure Your Arlington Home?
I offer FREE home security audits for Arlington residents. I'll walk through your home and give you a customized security plan—no pressure, no sales pitch.
✅ 20+ Years Experience • 🏆 Licensed & Insured • 🌙 24/7 Emergency Service
🎯 Final Thoughts
Arlington is a great place to raise a family, but home security isn't something to gamble with. The good news? For less than the cost of a nice dinner out, you can dramatically improve your home's security.
Start with the basics (quality locks + reinforced doors), then add cameras and smart home tech as your budget allows. And remember—visible security measures (cameras, signs, lights) are often the best deterrent. Burglars look for easy targets, so make your home a hard target.
Questions about your home's security? Give me a call:
Serving Arlington, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and surrounding areas since 2005.