The front door is the most common point of entry for burglars, and many are surprisingly easy to defeat. The good news is that you can dramatically improve your door’s strength without spending a fortune.
1. Choose a Solid Door
Solid wood, fiberglass, or steel doors resist force far better than hollow-core doors. If you cannot replace the door, reinforce it.
2. Install a Grade 1 Deadbolt
A high-quality deadbolt with at least a one-inch throw makes kicking in the door much harder. Choose a reputable brand with a strong rating.
3. Use Long Strike-Plate Screws
Standard strike plates are often fastened with short screws that split the door frame. Replace them with 75 mm (three-inch) screws that reach the wall stud.
4. Reinforce the Door Frame
A metal door-jamb reinforcement kit spreads force across the frame and prevents splintering. This inexpensive upgrade is highly effective.
5. Add a Door Security Bar or Brace
A floor-mounted or under-handle security bar adds another layer of resistance, especially useful at night.
6. Fit a Wide-Angle Peephole or Camera
Always identify visitors before opening the door. A 180-degree peephole or a video doorbell lets you do so safely.
7. Protect Hinges
If your hinges are on the outside, thieves can remove the pins. Use security hinges or set screws to keep the door in place.
8. Secure Glass Panels
Doors with glass nearby allow intruders to reach in and unlock the latch. Use laminated glass, security film, or a double-cylinder deadbolt where local fire codes allow.
9. Improve Lighting
Motion-activated lights near the entrance remove the cover of darkness and alert you to movement.
10. Never Hide Spare Keys Outside
Under the mat, in a plant pot, or on top of the door frame are the first places a burglar will check. Leave a spare with a trusted neighbor or use a keypad lock instead.
Make It a Habit
Even the strongest door fails if it is left unlocked. Build the habit of locking up every time you leave and before you go to bed. Combined, these small upgrades make your home a much less attractive target.