Your front door is more than just an entrance to your home—it's the first line of defence against intruders and potential threats. While we often focus on securing windows, sliding patio doors, and other access points, the front door remains a prime target for burglars.
Therefore, it's crucial to prioritize front door security to protect your loved ones and belongings. A well-secured front door acts as a deterrent, making your home less attractive to intruders.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore various door security tips, from simple DIY fixes to new technological solutions. Let’s get started.
Assess Your Current Front Door Security
Before implementing any new security measures to burglar proof front door, take a close look at your existing front door and its components first. A thorough assessment will help you identify any vulnerabilities and determine the most appropriate upgrades. Here’s how to start:
- To know how to secure front door vulnerabilities in your home, start by examining the material and construction. Is it made of a solid, sturdy material like steel or fibreglass, or is it a hollow-core door that can be easily breached? Check the frame for any signs of damage or rot, as a weak frame can compromise the entire door's security.
- Next, inspect your door security locks. Are they in good working order, or do they show signs of wear and tear? Do you have a deadbolt installed in addition to the standard door lock? Consider the type and quality of your locks, as they play a crucial role in deterring intruders.
- Finally, take a look at your hinges. Are they exposed on the outside, making them vulnerable to tampering? Evaluate the strength of your hinges and consider whether they need reinforcement.
By carefully assessing your current home door security, you can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to make informed decisions about necessary upgrades.
Image Source: Canva
Upgrade Your Door Security Locks
Your door's locks are its primary defence against unauthorized entry. Even with a sturdy door and frame, weak or outdated locks can be easily bypassed by intruders. Therefore, upgrading your locks to one of the popular options below is crucial in fortifying your front door security.
Deadbolts
These are an essential component of any door security measure. Compared to a door chain, these locks provide a strong, physical barrier that is resistant to picking and prying. Consider installing a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt, as these offer the highest levels of security.
Smart Locks
For added convenience and control, smart locks are an increasingly popular option. They give you remote access to your locks via your smartphone, so you can lock and unlock your door from anywhere. Some smart locks even offer features like keyless lock entry, temporary access codes for guests, and activity logs.
Multi-point Locking Systems
If you want a burglar proof front door, multi-point locking systems are a worthwhile investment. They involve multiple locks on different points along the door's height to better prevent forced entry.
Reinforce Your Exterior Doors and Frames
The strength of your front door and its frame plays a fundamental role in your home's front door security. A flimsy door or a weak frame can be easily compromised, even with the best locks installed. Therefore, reinforcing your door and doorframe is critical. Follow these practices for best results.
- Hollow exterior doors don’t provide the best door security. Consider replacing them with solid-core fibreglass, steel, or wood doors that offer greater resistance to forced entry, significantly improving your entrance security.
- For existing front doors, using longer screws for your door's strike plate and hinges can significantly increase their resistance to being kicked in. Use 3-inch or longer screws that penetrate deep into the door frame's studs for maximum strength and door security reinforcement.
- Use readily available home door security reinforcement kits to bolster your door's strength and durability. These kits typically include metal plates that reinforce the area around the deadbolt and door jamb to make it much more difficult for intruders to force their way in.
Image Source: Canva
Secure Your Hinges
While often overlooked in front door security, door hinges are a potential vulnerability that intruders can exploit. If your hinges are exposed on the outside, they can be easily tampered with or removed, allowing the door to be opened even with the locks engaged.
- To secure your hinges, consider using security pins or non-removable pins. These pins replace the standard hinge pins and feature a design that prevents them from being removed from the outside.
- Another option is to install hinge bolts. These are metal bolts inserted into the door frame and hinge side of the door when the door is closed, providing additional reinforcement and door security.
- If replacing hinges entirely, opt for hinges with security features built-in, such as concealed pins or tamper-resistant screws. These hinges offer an added layer of protection for a burglar proof front door.
Enhance Your Door’s Environment
Improving visibility is a key aspect of enhancing your door security. A well-lit and maintained entrance can deter potential intruders and improve front door security. Overgrown shrubs and dark corners give potential intruders places to hide and observe your home. These tips can help improve your visibility and home security:
- Install motion-sensor lighting or night vision security cameras near your front door or any sliding door to illuminate the area and deter anyone from lurking in the shadows.
- Trim any overgrown bushes or trees that obscure the view of your entrance, making it easier for you and your neighbours to spot any suspicious activity.
- Secure sidelights or adjacent windows with security film or bars and install locks or pins to prevent them from being opened from the outside.
- Make sure your house number is clearly visible from the street. This helps emergency responders locate your address quickly in case of an incident.
Upgrade Your Front Door Security with Clera Windows + Doors
Clera Windows + Doors understands the importance of a secure and stylish front door. That's why we offer a wide selection of high-quality, expertly crafted steel doors designed to enhance both the beauty and front door security of your home.
Our doors are built with durability and security in mind. They are constructed from robust materials and can be equipped with advanced locking systems to deter intruders. Plus, with our professional installation and lifetime warranty, you can trust your burglar proof front door to provide lasting protection for years to come.
Don't compromise your family’s safety with subpar door security. Contact Clera Windows + Doors today for a free consultation, and let us help protect your family!
