The front door is an integral part of a house. It is the first thing people see, and it’s an essential component of home security. Statistics show that most intruders enter a property through the door. Improve front door security to reduce the likelihood of a burglar gaining access to your home. Boosting security protects you, your family, and your belongings. Below are a few tips to help.
1. Install a Deadbolt to Improve Front Door Security
A typical door handle lock cannot easily withstand outside forces. A heavy blow may cause these locks to fail. Install a deadbolt for more robust and additional protection. The best deadbolts designed for residential use withstand five strikes of 75 pounds of force, making them helpful in protecting your property.
2. Replace the Door
Many older homes have wooden front doors that have begun to rot or crack, hindering their ability to keep your home secure. Hollow-core doors and doors with large glass panes present the same problem when installed at an entryway. If you have one of these front doors, replace it with a solid-core door made of wood, steel, or fiberglass with a wood core. These types of doors are sturdy and hold up well to outside force.
3. Improve Front Door Security with a New Doorframe and Hinges
The weakest part of your entryway is the doorframe and hinges. A door itself is typically sturdy, and when locked with a deadbolt, the door and lock boost security. However, a solid door and strong deadbolt are only as good as the frame and hinges connecting them to the house. Check your doorframe and hinges for signs of wear, rust, rot, or cracks that could indicate the need for replacement.
4. Add Outdoor Lighting
Darkness and shadows help provide cover for a burglar. Install lights near the front door, porch, and along the walkway to discourage intruders. Choose lights that you can program to come on every evening and turn off every morning, saving you the trouble of remembering to turn them on.
5. Install a Home Security System
A security system warns you of an intruder and offers peace of mind. There are many different kinds of security systems available. You’ll find basic camera systems, window and door alarms, and doorbell cameras. Modern smart security systems include cameras you can view from your smartphone and keyless locks that you can control with an app.
Assurance Home Services provides inspections in the Charlotte, NC, and Rock Hill, SC, areas. Contact us to schedule an appointment.