You wouldn’t think so, but a large percentage of intruders will use your front door to access your home before trying anything else. A weak front door is all a burglar needs to get into a home without much effort – just how secure is your front door really?
In this guide, we focus on the security of your front door – it is one of the most important factors in home security after all.
Steps for Securing Your Front Door
Step 1: Evaluate the Integrity of Your Front Door
Your front door is exposed to the elements, which means over time, it’s going to weaken and warp, which also affects the lock. To secure your home, start by evaluating the integrity of your front door. Does it need to be repaired? Or would it be better to just replace it completely?
Step 2: Evaluate Your Front Door Lock
Installing the right lock can instantly boost the security of your front door. Plus, if you notice any rust or lock damage, it’s definitely time to replace or upgrade your locks. There are a number of options to choose from, so you may want to get some expert advice. A multi-point locking system comes highly recommended, as do high security locks.
Step 3: Add a Deadbolt for Extra Protection
While upgrading your front door lock is a good first step, adding a deadbolt provides an extra layer of protection. A deadbolt can only be locked and unlocked from the outside. What’s more, you can generally install it yourself if you have the right tools and know-how.
Step 4: Look at Your Door Hinges
Next, you may want to consider replacing or repairing your front door hinges. Weak hinges are just an extra thing that makes it easier for a burglar to get into your home. As with every other part of your door, the hinges can weaken too.
Step 5: Install a Strike Plate
Make your door jamb more secure by installing a strike plate. The reason why this helps is that the door jamb is known to be a particularly weak area of the door frame.
Step 6: Add Glazing to Your Windows
If your front door has windows, not only can burglars look inside your house, but they can break the glass and unlock your door from the inside. Glazing your windows keeps the inside of your home protected and the glass is much harder to break.
Step 7: Purchase a Video Doorbell
Our last recommendation is to install a video doorbell. Knowing who is outside your front door will give you greater peace of mind and keep you safer in general. And the good news is that because video doorbells have become so common, they’re not as expensive as they used to be.
Need help or advice with your front door security? We can help. Contact Wynwood Locksmith on 786-358-6116.