The Best Locations and Positions to Place Security Camera Systems

The Best Locations and Positions to Place Security Camera Systems

If you are reading this article, then chances are you already know or want to know about the importance of security camera systems. Security camera systems keep your property safe from burglars and other mischievous perpetrators who damage or vandalize your property. They have become very much prevalent and you can find its usage in both residential and commercial purposes. Whichever security camera system you choose for yourself, placing it correctly is the primary aspect that will define its effectiveness. While installing the security cameras, one of the key factors that you need to take into consideration is that it should be placed well so that it covers the maximum area.  This article will summarize the best locations and positions to place your security camera system to maximize its effectiveness.

Right Place to Install A Security Camera System:

#1. Near the windows that are situated off-street - Place a security camera system near the windows that are facing towards the street, it will deter the burglars who mostly prefer to use a rear window that is cut off from the view from the street that protects them from getting caught. A security camera system will keep those windows and thereby your home safe from thieves and vandals.

#2. Near the main door - The most important placement for your security camera systems is the main door of your home. Not only does it saves you from burglars entering through the front door, it can also act as a peephole and let you know who is at the door so that you can get some time and safe distance to decide whether or not you want to open the door for the visitor.

#3. Near the back door - It is one of the most vulnerable areas where the burglars are going to enter your home. Hence, you must also take this place into consideration. Installing security camera systems at the back door is a must for the independent homeowners. As suggested before, keep your cameras out of human reach and keep it protected from the possibilities of things being thrown at them.

#4. Other places to cover - After you have protected the front and back door and the off-street windows, you may consider making your house even safe by placing your security camera system in some other places in your property’s vicinity.

• The garage

• Driveways

• Second floor

• The basement

Common Mistakes That Should Be Avoided While Placing Your Security Camera Systems

#1. Do not forget to secure your security camera systems - Security camera systems can be easily tampered, stolen with or even damaged by perpetrators if not secured properly. The camera should ideally be placed 9 feet above the ground to keep it out of trouble’s reach. Also, make sure that the outside cameras are well protected from the harsh weather conditions.

#2. Avoid choosing the highest point for camera placement - Although placing the security camera systems at the highest point in your property will give it a better view, a detailed look of a perpetrator’s feature will not be evident from such heights. You might not be able to identify the criminal at all. To know the best place to install the cameras, you  must consult the seller . They will assess the place and will also help you in the placement of cameras.

#3. Do not forget to provide proper lighting - Irrespective of how well your security cameras systems are placed, they will be rendered useless in dark places or during the night without proper lighting. There must be ample lighting such that the security camera systems can get a clear recording and picture. Security camera systems are fast becoming a necessity of every household given the increase in crimes in recent years. Keep this article in mind while placing your security camera systems for them to work effectively and you to have peace of mind.

Guest Contributor, Jessica Curry

Building an Eco-Friendly House 101: From Hiring a Contractor to Decor Styles

Building an Eco-Friendly House 101: From Hiring a Contractor to Decor Styles

Great architecture and clever design has always been on high demand, but what if now we can take the best practices of residential design and apply them with sustainability principles? Many local governments are supporting eco house designs and floor plans that allow homebuilders to use advanced construction technology and create sustainable and low-impact homes. Eco-friendly practices can be applied in a variety of ways – through reducing waste during the construction, choosing sustainable and locally sourced materials, or even orienting your home to make the most out of passive cooling and heating. If you want to make your new home more sustainable, here are some ideas to consider.

Designs that Reduce Energy Use

A well-designed home has many ways of reducing its dependence on coal-powered electricity. This may include increasing the natural light with skylights or highlight windows, using energy-efficient LED fixtures, as well as WELS rated water fixtures and hot water-saving systems. Also, no matter how sustainable your building materials, a larger home will always have a worse energy footprint. This doesn't mean you have to restrict yourself at all costs, just be more thoughtful about the space that is available and that you need. Planning your eco house design with your lifestyle in mind is probably the best way when shopping for the design.

Make Your Roof Cooler

The materials you use for the roof can make a huge difference in your homes energy dependence. You should choose a product that reflects the suns energy from the roof, cools faster at night, and holds less heat for less time. Slate, terra cotta, white tiles, and special reflecting membranes, as well as metal roofing, are often cited as popular eco-friendly options. They are typically more expensive upfront, but you’ll recoup those costs through energy savings. A living roof allows you to hold plants that grow on the roof to catch and filter rainwater while providing excellent insulation to your home. While these green roofs are nowadays mostly used in commercial buildings, they are suitable for residential roofs as well.

Choose an Optimum Insurance Package

Although sustainable homes are in many ways different from regular ones, they are still liable to more-less the same insurance obligations. Some argue that finding the right home insurance is even more important in passive homes, as the value of advanced products such as smart home technology, and even rooftop solar panels need to be covered. Much of the sustainable materials you’ll use inside are naturally-sourced, which are often neither fire-proof nor watertight. When shopping for the right insurance package for your passive home, choose a provider that allows you to tailor your policy to your needs and budget.

Apply Passive Design Principles

Passive design refers to a set of sustainable building measures that rely on local climate and site conditions to maintain a comfortable temperature at home. While in traditional homes about 40% of the household’s entire energy usage is dedicated to heating and cooling, with passive design principles, this amount can be reduced to almost zero. This means that first and foremost, careful attention is given to the home’s position and orientation. In the southern hemisphere, eco houses designs and floorplans make most of the north aspect, harnessing the power of the sun. While in the summer this can be moderated with various shadings and overhangs, in winter this orientation allows deep sun penetration. To keep inside temperatures more stable, homeowners might use elements of higher thermal insulation, such as double- or triple-glazed windows, or natural cross-ventilation.

Use Sustainable Materials

To build and furnish a more sustainable home, you should consider materials that are recyclable, reconstituted, or sustainably harvested/produced. Aluminum takes a lot of energy to produce but can be recycled over and over again. It’s important to extend the sustainable theme beyond the construction and make sure that every part of your house including cabinets, counters, insulation, floor covering, and even furniture is environmentally friendly. Some eco-conscious furniture manufacturers use reclaimed or recycled wood, glass, and iron. Wood is a popular reclaimed material as it retains its durability over the years even if mishandled. Other sustainable materials include bamboo, cork, and linoleum, all of which are natural, highly-renewable materials.

By their very nature, homes aren’t very environmentally friendly – a lot of energy is wasted in hauling the materials to the site, not to mention the construction waste, and all the industrial-grade materials that go into an average home. However, each of us can make an impact and minimize our footprint by using design, products, and practices that are sustainable, and created with water and energy saving in mind while reducing wastage and pollution.

Guest Contributor, Tracy Clayton