When homeowners in Colorado undertake remodeling, whether finishing a basement, renewing a primary bathroom, or upgrading kitchens, the opportunity is ripe to think beyond aesthetics. One of the often-overlooked upgrades in a home remodel is a home security system. As wiring is exposed, walls are opened, or ceilings are removed, it's the perfect time to thoughtfully integrate or upgrade security infrastructure.
Security systems, however, are not what they used to be. Meaning, they are much more robust and include motion detection, water level detection, glass break detection and more. And, security systems can now be wired or wireless. So, let’s walk through the differences between wired and wireless systems, how to leverage a remodel for smarter security, and what to consider specifically.
Why Upgrade Security During a Remodel?
A remodeling project is like having x-ray vision into your home’s bones. Walls are torn open, electric wiring is visible, ceilings are coming down exposing ductwork and plumbing, and eventually every inch of your home’s structure becomes visible. If you're already following through with exposing your home’s interior structure, installing or upgrading your security wiring is far less disruptive than retrofitting it later. Here are three key advantages:
Lower incremental cost – since other trades (electricians, drywallers) are already in your walls, running low-voltage wiring or placing junctions is relatively inexpensive.
Cleaner final look – wires can be hidden behind new finishes or in conduit so nothing looks “tacked on.”
Future flexibility – you can plan for hybrid systems (wired backbone + wireless endpoints), anticipating future smart devices, sensors, or expansions.
Because of this, many security installers encourage integrating infrastructure during home renovations rather than waiting. In markets like Littleton, Ken Caryl, Highlands Ranch, and others within our service area, many security companies already offer “builder services” or “home automation / security prewiring” to new or remodeled homes.
Wired vs Wireless: What’s the Difference?
Many modern systems are hybrids or wireless-first with wired fallback models, combining the best of both worlds. To choose wisely, let’s break down how each system works, and then weigh their pros and cons in real-world use.
How They Work
Wired (or hardwired) systems use physical cables (low-voltage wiring) from sensors, cameras, and detectors back to a central control panel. That panel in turn connects (often by Ethernet, landline, or other durable link) to the monitoring station. (ADT)
Wireless systems use radio frequencies (RF) for sensor-to-panel communication, and typically use cellular or Wi-Fi to link the control panel to monitoring or cloud services. Equipment is often powered by batteries (with backups) or via a more centralized power source. (SafeWise)
Pros & Cons
Wired systems offer robustness and reliability while wireless offers flexibility and lower installation friction. According to a 2024 Angi article, recent comparisons affirm that while wired tends to be more reliable, wireless systems have matured and become more dependable, making hybrid approaches especially appealing. Another recent 2025 review of wired systems underscores that wired cameras can offer steadier video feed and require far less battery maintenance.
The Importance of a Strong Backbone in Colorado’s Suburbs
In Colorado homeowners benefit from certain regional factors:
Elevation, terrain, and structure — Many homes in our service area are built in the foothills or on sloping lots with foundations, basements, and rock outcroppings. RF signals can encounter more obstacles (stone, stucco, thick walls). A wired backbone aids in mitigating these signal drop zones.
Weather and power stability — As we know, Colorado occasionally sees heavy snow, windstorms, and utility issues. A wired system with battery back-up provides more assurance during winter storm outages.
Crime deterrence and community standards — Property crimes, while rare in our service area, are still a possibility. Installing visible deterrents (cameras, signed entry sensors, etc.,) matters not just for actual detection but psychological deterrence.
Local installers already understand our state's regional challenges. Fortunately for us, Colorado has a plethora of security company options, all of which offer 24/7 monitoring, smart integration, and professional installation.
Remodeling + Security: Best Practices & Pitfalls
When remodeling in Colorado, here’s how to make security a priority and not an afterthought:
Plan early, not late
Before drywall goes up, decide on camera zones, sensor coverage, motion detection arcs, power drop points, water level detection and conduit routes.Pre-wire while it’s cheap
Use data or security-grade wiring to feed future cameras or sensors. You might not use them now, but it’s far cheaper to run at build time than retrofit later.Use conduit / pull lines
Running empty conduit or “pull lines” allows future wires to slide in easily. This is the remodeler’s version of future-proofing.Power planning matters
Ensure that each zone has reliable power, that circuits aren’t overloaded, and that backup batteries or power are considered for critical components.Mind router / network layout
Modern security systems often depend on Wi-Fi or ethernet. During your home remodel, position your router, access points, and wiring to avoid dead zones. Keep the security system control panel either on its own network or otherwise isolated for better security.Consult local security pros
When you remodel your home with us, we make sure we tie in local security pros.
Pitfall to avoid: Don’t treat security as an “add-on.” Delaying decisions often leads to ugly retrofits and can lead to patched holes, exposed wiring, or less than optimal sensor placements.
Choosing the Right System for Your Home
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s how to pick:
Scale of home & layout
For larger homes or ones with a complex layout, wired or hybrid backbones make more sense. Wireless-only systems can hit signal ceilings over long distances or through thick walls.Long-term plans
If you expect to stay in your home for many years, investing in the home you have with robust infrastructure pays off. If you might move soon, wireless or modular systems give flexibility.Monitoring requirements
Regardless of wired or wireless, 24/7 professional monitoring is the key safety net.Smart home integration
If you plan to integrate locks, lighting, cameras, garage control, or sensors, hybrid systems provide the strongest foundation.Budget balance
Equipment costs, installation labor, and subscription fees all add up. A wired backbone might reduce long-term maintenance (no battery swaps) even if upfront labor is higher.
In beautiful, established neighborhoods like those in our service area, homes often have charm, uneven terrain, and structural quirks. A thoughtfully designed security system can blend in while delivering serious protection.
If you’re remodeling any part of your home, seize the moment. Let your contractor (that’s us), build this into our overall design and remodel plan. A smart wiring skeleton installed early will save money, maintain aesthetics, and give you flexibility as new security technologies evolve.
Wired systems offer unparalleled reliability, while wireless systems offer flexibility and ease. But, a hybrid or semi-wired approach often gives the best of both.
If you’re ready to secure what is often your biggest investment, we’re ready to help. We’d love the opportunity to renew your life by renewing your home. Get in touch with our team today!
