Burglar-proofing your front door is an essential step in enhancing the security of your home. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you achieve that:
1. Install a Solid Core Door: Replace your existing front door with a solid core door made of metal, wood, or fiberglass. Solid doors are more resistant to forced entry than hollow doors.
2. Upgrade Door Material: If you have a wooden door, consider reinforcing it with metal plates or installing a steel door frame to make it more robust.
3. Quality Deadbolt Locks: Install a high-quality deadbolt lock with a one-inch throw bolt. Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts are recommended for maximum security.
4. Add a Door Reinforcement Plate: Use a metal reinforcement plate with extra-long screws to reinforce the area around the lock and hinges. This helps prevent forced entry through these weak points.
5. Use a Strike Box: A strike box reinforces the area around the strike plate, making it harder for burglars to kick in the door.
6. Install a Door Viewer or Peephole: This allows you to see who is at the door without opening it, adding an extra layer of security.
7. Security Chains: Consider adding a door chain or security bar to prevent the door from being fully opened from the outside.
Smart Locks: Modern smart locks can provide added security features, such as remote access, temporary access codes, and activity logs.
8. Secure Hinges: Use hinge pins with non-removable heads or setscrews to prevent intruders from easily removing the door by taking out the hinge pins.
9. Proper Lighting: Install motion-activated lights near the front door to deter burglars and improve visibility during nighttime.
10. Keep Landscaping Trimmed: Trim bushes and hedges near the front door, preventing potential hiding spots for burglars.
11. Secure Glass Panels: If your front door has glass panels, consider reinforcing them with security film or replacing them with impact-resistant glass.
12. Don’t Advertise Your Absence: Avoid leaving signs that indicate you’re away, such as uncollected mail or newspapers.
13. Alarm System: Install a home security system that includes door and window sensors, an alarm, and, if desired, a surveillance camera.
14. Neighborhood Watch: Encourage community engagement and consider joining or starting a neighborhood watch program.
Remember that no security measure is entirely foolproof, but implementing a combination of these tips will significantly enhance the security of your front door and make it more challenging for burglars to gain unauthorized access to your home.
