Security
What are some suggestions for securing your house from an intruder? Right now we have a GE Simon XT alarm system, but it doesn't cover breaking a window. We put some PVC pipes in the tracks of the lower floor windows as well. What other suggestions do you have?
EDIT: I also would like to know what structural changes I should be looking at. A simple one is to ensure that the deadbolt goes into a stud (they don't always!). Any other suggestions like this would be great.
Forget securing the door, and install a security system with a motion sensor. Put labels up outside saying there is a security system (some people only put labels up, and don't have a real system).
Even if you have a door with a locking mechanism, if someone manages to defeat it (eg, kicks it open) or you forget to lock it, you still have the alarm go off.
Most motion sensors are "pet safe" in that it takes something over eg, 40 lbs or 80lbs to actually trigger (they have a rating and there are different sizes, so you can get a lower rating if you have a poodle and a bigger one if you have a great dane).
You could pick up a magnetic window/door alarm (some more expensive models may also have glass break sensors).
If the window is opened, the alarm will sound.
You could purchase, or make a "security bar" similar to the ones used for sliding doors.
This will make it more difficult to open the window, though would not protect against breaking the glass. If you make/purchase an adjustable version, you would even be able to leave the window open slightly and still be protected (as long as it's not open enough for the intruder to slip in).
There are many companies that make Security Window Films, that can be applied to glass to make it "unbreakable".
Depending on your budget for this project, a combination of these products would be the best solution.
Best Answer
Don't have anything valuable. Or at least, don't appear to.
Look like you care about upkeep and security. You don't have to outrun the bear, etc.
Secure your air conditioners if they're in-window. That's so easy to do.
Avoid doors which have glass near the doorknob. I watched This Old House putting in a beautiful glass door in a crappy part of Boston and all I could think was smash and twist.
Watch out for other means of entry — popping out screens and windows can be avoided if you keep the area around the window clear (no garbage cans to stand on, no shrubs to climb), or if you're really worried, bars on the windows(!). A large dog door can be a way in; secure it.
But mostly, don't look like a target.