Built-In Security, Smart Locks, and Lighting for Your New Home

Battery cameras and plug-in gadgets work, but they need charging, they lose signal, and they rarely look good. In a new home, security and lighting can be built into the structure: wired, hidden, and reliable. Here's what to plan.

1. Wired security cameras

Cameras wired with a single network cable get both power and data through that one cable. That means no batteries to charge and no Wi-Fi dropouts. We plan camera locations at entry doors, the driveway, the garage, and the backyard, and run cable to each one during construction. The cameras mount cleanly under the eaves with no visible wires.

2. A video doorbell with real power

A video doorbell works best when it's hardwired, so it never needs charging. We make sure the doorbell location has the right wiring and a solid Wi-Fi or wired connection.

3. Smart locks and keyless entry

Smart deadbolts let you unlock the door with your phone, a code, or a fingerprint, and give temporary codes to cleaners or contractors. Choose your door hardware early. Some smart locks need specific door thicknesses or prep, and a garage entry or side door may need a nearby outlet or wiring.

4. Sensors that protect the house itself

Security isn't only about intruders. Water leak sensors near the water heater, washing machine, and under sinks can shut off the main water valve automatically when they detect a leak. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors send alerts to your phone. Planning a motorized shutoff valve on the main water line is easy during plumbing rough-in.

5. Whole-home lighting control

Smart switches and dimmers let you control every light from a wall keypad, your phone, or a schedule. Useful scenes include:

• "Away": lights turn on and off on a schedule so the house looks lived in

• "Goodnight": every light off with one button by the bed

• "Arrive home": entry and driveway lights turn on as you pull in

Smart switches need a neutral wire in the switch box, and multi-button keypads need deeper boxes. Both are easy in new construction.

6. Exterior lighting that adds security and curb appeal

Well-placed landscape and facade lighting makes a home safer and more beautiful. Putting it on smart controls lets it follow sunset automatically. We plan exterior lighting circuits, transformers, and outdoor outlets along with the rest of the electrical work.

Built in, not added on

The best security and lighting systems disappear into the house. At Ferrane Construction, we plan them with you during design so the wiring is in place before the walls close.

Building a custom home in Northern Virginia or Washington, DC? Book a free consultation and we'll help you plan a home that's secure and smart from day one.