The folks at  Allstate Insurance  have graciously sponsored this post, which will help you learn how to install security film to safeguard your doors (or windows)from a potential break-in! It’s a simply DIY solution that could potentially save you the heartache of having your home burglarized.

I’ve noticed an unsettling trend in our area. There are more thefts popping up around our neighborhood. Luckily the majority of them are burglaries with no violence. But, it’s still unsettling. If you want the latest on crimes around you, sign up for SpotCrime.com . Simply enter your address and you’ll get emails when crimes are reported around you. Then again, this could lead to a bit of paranoia {raising hand.}

Regardless, there are two doors in our home that have always caused me some concern. We have two half window doors that needed some added security measures. The first one is the entrance to our mudroom. The second one is the back door to our garage (and you know I’d be heartbroken if anyone stole my power tools!)

If you have a door like this, a burglar can simply break the pane of glass closest to the knob, reach in and turn the deadbolt and handle. One option is to install a two-sided keyed entry deadbolt lock. Because we have little children, I worried about them not being able to find the key and get out of the house in the event of a fire.

This past week I happened to hear about security film and did a little research. I was skeptical until I tested the material myself. The results seriously amazed me! You can watch my test in the video later in this post.

In the meantime, here are the supplies you’ll need and the very simply installation instructions!

( I’ve included affiliate links for your convenience. I earn a small percentage from a purchase using these links. There is no additional cost to you. You can  read more about affiliate links here .)

Materials:

• 8 Mil Security Window Film
• Spray bottle with water and a few drops of dish soap (or baby shampoo)
• 4 inch Squeegee
• Paper towels
• Razor blade
• X-acto knife (or scissors)
• Metal Ruler
• Ball point pen or fine-tipped sharpie
• Cutting surface

 Instructions:

1. Begin by removing the grill if you have one solid piece of glass with faux dividers (see my video below for more details on removing the grill.) If you have true divided light, move on to the next step.

2. Measure your windows. Reduce the size by 1/8″ to leave space at the edges for the water to escape. Transfer the measurements onto the film with pen. Cut the window film with the x-acto knife and ruler. (You could use scissors in a pinch.)

Test fit the film.

3. Clean the window with the water and soap mixture. Use the razor blade to scrape the window to remove any dirt, debris, dried paint, dog hairs, boogers…(oh sorry that must just be on our windows. Did I mention I have two young boys?)

4. Your windows must be 100% clean because once the film is installed any dirt or lint will show up in the film…forever….and ever, (or until the film is removed.)

5. Spray the window thoroughly with the soapy water. Then peel off the top 1″ of the backing from the security film.

6. Position the sticky side onto the window and pull the backing off from the top down. (You’ll have to reach underneath the film to pull the backing off.)

Press down from the middle and then out to each side. While the window is still wet you can move and reposition the film. Just be aware that each time you pick up the film you run the risk of getting dust or folds in the film.

7. Use the squeegee (or a credit card) to push the air bubbles and liquid out of the film. Start from the middle and push the air out toward the edges of the film, always radiating from the middle.

8. Wipe the liquid that has been squeezed out with a clean paper towel.

Repeat until all your glass has the security film installed. You could get by with just the windows closest to the door handle being protected, but it was so easy to install that I did all of the panes. Besides, did I mention I have two young boys? The film also helps protect your glass from errant balls and other dangerous objects.

Can you see the security film? No?

How about now? You have to get super close to see the edge of the film.

Here’s the video I created to install and testing of the security film.  Hang onto your hammers, you won’t believe your eyes!:

Now our door only welcomes guests and family into our home, not any unwanted intruders.

I’m curious — am I the last person on earth to hear about this cool product? Or is this the first time you learned about security film?

P.s. Although you can do your best to add security measures to your home, it is important to plan ahead and protect your family and your home. Even if you think you live in a safe neighborhood, I can’t stress how important it is to have good home insurance. Last year we had the unfortunate situation of having to file not  one , but  two  claims. Neither were planned for, but I am soooo thankful that we had good quality home insurance and I truly felt like we were in good hands during the restoration.

Disclosure:  This post was written as part of the Allstate Influencer Program and sponsored by  Allstate . All opinions are mine. I was not told what to write about. As the nation’s largest publicly held insurance company, Allstate is dedicated not only to protecting what matters most—but to guiding people to live the Good Life, every day. For more great tips like this, visit our exclusive  Good to Know  community.

Getting ready to go out of town? You’ll need to find out how to burglar proof your home !