Your front door is more than just an entryway; it’s the first line of defense for your home. Whether you’re welcoming guests or simply enjoying peace of mind at night, your door plays a crucial role in keeping your family safe. But what security features should you be looking for when shopping for a new door?
At Canberra Windows and Doors, we believe you should never have to compromise style for security. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on the top security features to look for in modern doors, so you can protect your home without sacrificing aesthetics.
1. Solid Core or Reinforced Frame: The Foundation of Door Security
When it comes to door security, it all starts with a solid foundation. One of the key features to look for in any door is a solid core or a reinforced frame. This makes it harder for intruders to kick in the door or force their way through. Solid wood, steel, or fiberglass doors are great options because they provide strength and durability without compromising on design.
Pro Tip: Hollow-core doors might be lightweight, but they’re much less secure. For exterior doors, always go for a solid core.
2. Multipoint Locking Systems: Locking from All Angles
Gone are the days of relying on a single deadbolt to secure your door. Modern doors often come with multipoint locking systems, which engage the door frame at multiple points (usually three or more). This makes it much more difficult for an intruder to pry open the door, as the pressure is distributed across several points, not just at the latch.
Multipoint locks provide peace of mind, especially for larger doors like French or patio doors, which tend to be more vulnerable.
3. Smart Locks: Welcome to the Future of Security
Imagine being able to lock or unlock your door from your smartphone, even when you’re not at home. That’s the magic of smart locks! These high-tech security devices allow you to control access remotely, grant temporary access codes to visitors or delivery drivers, and even receive notifications when someone opens your door.
Smart locks come in a variety of styles, from touchscreens to keypads, and can easily be integrated into most modern doors. Convenience and security in one? Yes, please!
4. Reinforced Hinges: Strong on the Inside, Safe on the Outside
We often focus on the lock when thinking about door security, but don’t forget about the hinges! Reinforced or heavy-duty hinges are essential to preventing burglars from removing the door entirely. Look for doors that come with tamper-proof or non-removable hinges, especially if the hinges are exposed on the outside.
These reinforced hinges are small but mighty when it comes to boosting your door’s overall security.
5. Security Glass: Let the Light In, Keep the Intruders Out
Love the idea of a door with glass panels but worried about safety? Don’t be! Modern security glass options, like laminated or tempered glass, are designed to be shatter-resistant. Laminated glass consists of layers of glass with a strong interlayer that holds the glass together if it breaks, making it extremely difficult for intruders to break through.
This means you can enjoy natural light in your home without compromising on security. A win-win!
6. Deadbolt Locks: The Tried-and-True Hero
No matter how advanced door security gets, there’s still one classic feature that never goes out of style – the deadbolt lock. But today’s deadbolts have come a long way. High-quality deadbolts should have at least a 1-inch throw (the part that extends into the door frame) and be made of hardened steel.
For added security, consider double-cylinder deadbolts, which require a key on both sides of the door. This prevents an intruder from breaking the glass and reaching inside to unlock the door.
7. Door Viewers or Cameras: See Who’s Knocking
It’s always a good idea to know who’s at the door before you open it. Traditional peepholes are great, but modern door viewers or smart cameras take it up a notch. With a smart doorbell camera, you can see and speak to visitors through your smartphone, whether you’re inside or miles away.
Not only do door cameras offer convenience, but they also act as a deterrent to would-be intruders who see that they’re being monitored.
8. Steel Reinforcement Plates: A Simple Upgrade for Added Strength
Another small but powerful feature is a steel reinforcement plate, also known as a strike plate. This simple piece of hardware is installed around the area where the door latch meets the frame. Reinforcing this area with steel makes it significantly harder to kick in the door.
Many modern doors come with strike plates pre-installed, but if yours doesn’t, it’s a relatively easy upgrade that adds a serious layer of protection.
In conclusion
the front door is your home’s first line of defense, but it can also be a stylish statement piece. By choosing modern doors with the right security features, you can ensure that your home stays safe while still looking fantastic. Whether you opt for smart locks, security glass, or reinforced frames, there are plenty of options to suit your needs and taste.
Ready to upgrade your door security? At Canberra Windows and Doors, we’ve got you covered with a range of modern, secure, and stylish door options. Let’s keep your home safe and looking great!
