Securing Vulnerable Access Points: 3 Ways To Secure The Front Door
Home burglaries are not uncommon in the United States. In fact, approximately one house is burglarized every 15 seconds, and 33% of intruders enter the home through the front door. Securing the front door should be one of your primary concerns. If you're unsure whether your front door is safe enough, here are 3 ways you can further secure your entryways to make them a less vulnerable access point.
Install a Deadbolt
Most locksmiths would agree that your home isn't really secure unless you have working deadbolt locks. Deadbolt locks are made from steel bolts that extend into the door jamb and the strike plate of the door frame. They are more secure than other types of locks, and make it incredibly difficult for intruders to enter your home by force.
The deadbolt locks you choose should have a bolt lock throw of at least one inch, and the bolt lock throw should penetrate the strike plate. Preferably, choose ANS1 Grade 1 residential deadbolt locks. It's important to pay attention to the lock grade you have, as the lock grade will play a huge role in overall security. It's definitely worth splurging on higher quality locks, as you get what you pay for.
Replace Flimsy Strike Plates
The strike plate is the metal plate that surrounds the hole in the door frame where the lock enters. The strike plate acts as an anchor point, and is responsible for reinforcing the door frame to deter intruders from being able to use brute force to gain access into the home. Although most homeowners don't realize this, how secure the strike plates are will play a huge role to how secure and strong your door is.
A professional locksmith will inspect not only the locks, but also the strike plates. Over time, the strike plates will become worn down, causing them to become flimsy and less secure. A professional locksmith will need to determine whether the strike plates need to be replaced or not. Ideally, the strike plates should be secured with four 3-inch screws for maximum security. Longer screws can reinforce and secure the doorjamb, which is one of the most vulnerable and easily targeted spots on the door.
Secure the Frame
Even the strongest door will be no match for experienced burglars if they are not installed onto secure frames. Burglars can easily gain access into your home by prying into or breaking the door frame, which is usually just tacked onto the wall. To prevent this from happening, secure the door frame to the wall by installing longer screws along the frame and the doorstop. The screws must reach the wall stud to prevent the frames from being easily pried off.
In addition, make sure to secure exposed hinges. Exposed hinges are vulnerable to being removed. Most professional locksmiths recommend replacing the center screws of the hinges with non-removable hinge pins or double-headed masonry nails.
Conclusion
As most burglars tend to rely on brute force, securing all of your doors is a great way to protect your home, as they tend to be the most targeted areas of each home. If you are unsure of whether your doors and locks are properly installed or are secure, consult with a professional locksmith. The locksmith will need to perform a thorough examination before being able to give you the insight that you need. Don't hesitate to make the upgrades and replacements that have been recommended, as it will pay off in the long run by keeping you and your home safe, and you can also click here for info and to reach locksmiths in your area.
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