Designing A Perimeter Alarm System Second Floor

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout of the second floor of our example. Click the red dots to see the view from those points:

Consider the following when deciding to add security devices to your second floor:

A. Are there any reasonably accessible windows or entry points on the second floor?

If so, you will need to protect those entry points, and any strategic areas on the second floor. In this example:

Master Bedroom:

The picture window in the walk in closet will require a "bug" glassbreak detector.

Guest Bedroom:

The casement window will also require a "bug" glassbreak detector.

Hallway:

A motion sensor in the hallway is recommended as a "fail safe". (If you have pets, use a pet motion sensor).

B. Will I want/need to arm my system from upstairs while I am at home?

You have 3 options here:
Have a keypad installed on the second floor;
Add a wireless keyfob to operate the alarm remotely;
Install the first floor keypad in the foyer, out of range of the motion sensor, and arm the system before going to bed.

C. Was there any alarm prewiring done for the second floor while the house was being built?

If so, it may be possible to have hard wired devices on the second floor, using the attic space. If not, you will require all wireless devices on the second floor. Many manufacturers do not have wireless keypads available, so you may have to go with a wireless keyfob unit to arm and disarm the system, and/or to send a panic signal.

Smoke Detectors
CO2 Detectors
Heat Detectors
Flood Water Sensors
Temperature Sensor Alarms
Outdoor Siren With Strobe Light

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Designing A Perimeter Alarm System: Second Floor

Now that you know the basics of alarm design:

You may also want to consider:

Read some consumer-submitted alarm system reviews.

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