Did you know that intruders are more likely to get into your home through the front door than they are through a window or some other point of entry? It may seem unlikely, but it’s true. The reality is that your front door might not be as secure as you think it is – and that could be a problem.
In this guide, you’ll learn several different ways that you can improve your front door security. Depending on the state of your door, replacing it with a sturdier, new one may even be the recommended option.
Use a High-Quality Deadbolt
Not all deadbolts are the same. For the best in front door safety, you want to use a deadbolt that’s rated ANSI Grade 1. This is the highest quality rating by the American National Standards Institute, and it’s your number one defense against kick-ins.
Use a Reinforced Deadbolt Strike Plate
Your deadbolt is only as effective as its strike plate. This is the piece of metal that is attached to the jamb that the bolt slides through. If the strike plate is low quality, it won’t stop someone from kicking in the door, so make sure yours is reinforced with screws that are at least 2 1/2 inches long.
Use a Keyless Door Lock
A keyless door lock installed on the inside of the door makes it more difficult for burglars to get in because it strengthens the door and it can’t be picked. Installing it above your existing deadbolt will greatly improve your front door security.
Reinforce the Door Frame and Hinges
Burglars get inside by finding the weakest part of the front door. And, one of the areas where homeowners regularly fail to reinforce is the doorframe and hinges. With the right amount of force, the hinges can be ripped right out of the doorframe. The best preventive measure you can take is to reinforce the frame and hinges, using screws that are at least 2 1/2 inches long.
Use a Door Barricade
When properly installed, a door barricade uses the strength of the floor to keep the door from being kicked in. So, even if a burglar picks your lock or bypasses the deadbolt, the door barricade will prevent their entry into your home.
Replace Your Door With a Solid Core Door
Hollow doors are rarely used as entry doors because they’re so easy to get through. Because of this, if you currently have a hollow front door on your home, you should replace it immediately with one that has a solid core. A solid door is strong and sturdy and will require a tremendous amount of force to get through.
Install Security Equipment
Sometimes, just having security equipment installed on the outside of your home is enough to repel intruders. This is because when it comes to breaking and entering, criminals want the easiest and most inconspicuous route possible. So, installing motion-detecting lights and security cameras are excellent ways to keep unwanted people away from your door.
Improve Your Front Door Safety Today
If you want to improve your front door safety and security, in addition to your home’s curb appeal, purchasing a solid core smooth steel, textured steel, or fiberglass entry door from Thompson Creek is a smart choice. Our doors are custom made using only the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. And, we have an incredible array of options to choose from, so you can design the perfect door for your home.
With Thompson Creek, your new front door will provide you with excellent security and peace of mind for years to come. To learn more about our custom doors, or to get a free estimate, contact Thompson Creek today.