Burglar-proofing your front door starts with reinforcing its weak points. The best way to prevent break-ins is by upgrading your door lock, strengthening the door frame, and adding extra security features like a peephole or security camera. A solid-core door, combined with heavy-duty hardware, makes it much harder for intruders to force their way in.
Our front door is more than an entryway—it’s our first line of defense. Unfortunately, it’s also a burglar’s first target. Weak locks, flimsy frames, and exposed hinges make it easy for intruders to break in. But with the right security measures, we can make our front door nearly impenetrable.
Key Takeaways:
- Upgrade your locks: A deadbolt or smart lock adds an extra layer of security.
- Reinforce the door frame and hinges: Use long screws and metal plates to prevent forced entry.
- Install a solid-core door: Avoid hollow-core doors that can be easily kicked in.
- Secure glass panels: Use security film or replace them with impact-resistant glass.
- Add extra security features: A peephole, door alarm, or security screen door can deter burglars.
- Perform regular maintenance: Check your door’s strength and condition frequently.
Upgrading Your Door Lock: The First Line of Defense
Install a Deadbolt Lock
Standard locks won’t cut it. A deadbolt lock is one of the most effective ways to secure your front door. It uses a solid metal bar that slides into place, making it much harder to force open.
How to Choose the Right Deadbolt:
- Grade 1 deadbolts offer the highest security.
- Choose one-inch-thick bolts for maximum strength.
- Opt for double-cylinder deadbolts for doors with glass panels.
Consider Smart Locks
Smart locks add convenience without compromising security. Many models allow us to control and monitor our doors remotely through a smartphone app.
Smart Lock Benefits:
- Keyless entry: No need to worry about lost keys.
- Automatic locking: Some models lock automatically when we leave.
- Access tracking: Get alerts whenever the door is unlocked.
Reinforcing the Door Frame and Hinges
A strong lock means nothing if the door frame is weak. Reinforcing the frame prevents burglars from kicking in the door.
Use a Door Jamb Reinforcement Kit
A door jamb reinforcement kit strengthens the frame, making it resistant to forceful entry.
Upgrade Your Hinges
Hinges are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in door security.
- Replace short screws with 2.5-inch screws to anchor the hinges into the frame.
- Add hinge bolts to prevent burglars from prying the door open.
Choosing the Right Door: Solid-Core vs. Hollow-Core
Why a Hollow-Core Door Is a Weak Spot
Hollow-core doors are lightweight and easy to break. Most burglars can kick through them in seconds.
Best Solid-Core Door Options:
- Steel doors: Extremely durable and hard to break.
- Solid wood doors: Heavy and sturdy but require maintenance.
- Fiberglass doors: Weather-resistant and strong against impacts.
Securing Glass Panels on the Door
Glass panels make our doors look stylish, but they’re also an easy way in for burglars.
How to Secure Glass Doors:
- Use security film: Prevents glass from shattering easily.
- Upgrade to tempered or laminated glass: Much harder to break.
- Install double-cylinder deadbolts: Prevents burglars from reaching inside to unlock the door.
Additional Security Features for Extra Protection
Install a Peephole
A wide-angle peephole lets us see who’s at the door before opening it. This simple upgrade can prevent us from unknowingly opening the door to a potential intruder.
Use a Door Alarm or Doorstop
- Door alarms sound off when someone tries to tamper with the door.
- Doorstops prevent burglars from forcing the door open.
Add a Security Screen Door
A steel security screen door creates an extra barrier, making it harder for burglars to break in.
Regular Maintenance: Keeping Your Front Door Secure Over Time
Security isn’t just about installation—it’s about upkeep. Regular inspections help ensure our front door remains in top condition.
Maintenance Checklist:
✅ Check for loose or damaged hinges.
✅ Inspect locks and deadbolts for wear.
✅ Replace old weather stripping for a tight seal.
✅ Look for cracks or weaknesses in the door frame.
Additional Tips For Front Door Security
- Most break-ins happen between 10 AM and 3 PM when homes are unoccupied.
- 34% of burglars enter through the front door.
- Burglars avoid well-lit homes—motion sensor lights deter intruders.
- Visible security cameras reduce break-ins by up to 50%.
FAQs: What People Also Ask
What is the safest type of front door?
Steel doors are the safest, followed by solid wood and reinforced fiberglass doors.
How can I make my front door harder to kick in?
Use a solid-core door, install a deadbolt lock, reinforce the frame with a strike plate, and replace short hinge screws with long ones.
Are smart locks safer than traditional locks?
Yes, smart locks offer remote access, automatic locking, and activity tracking, making them a secure choice.
Should I install a doorbell camera?
Yes, a doorbell camera helps us monitor visitors and detect suspicious activity.
Final Thoughts: Secure Your Front Door, Secure Your Home
Burglar-proofing our front door is one of the best investments in home security. By upgrading locks, reinforcing frames, installing a solid-core door, and adding security features, we significantly reduce the risk of break-ins. A secure front door means peace of mind, knowing our home and loved ones are protected.
Still, the greatest line of defense is to secure every window and door in your home. With Callaway Security’s front door camera systems and monitored security systems, we can keep an eye on every entrance and exit. And with simultaneous cellular monitoring and video security, users may control the locks and who enters and leaves the building.
Contact Callaway Security at (770) 395-9692 for more information.
