5 ways to significantly improve your front door security!

What does a local Handyman know about home security? 

Not enough and neither do you!

Even the professionals who specialise in home break-ins admit that so many people are responsible for making the same security mistakes day-in, day-out. Despite the fact that a massive proportion of us have chub locks, many people choose to just simply close the door behind them on the way out. We must all be guilty of this at some point, especially in the mornings when we're rushing off to work.

 

5 ways to significantly improve your front door security! 

1) Windowless door options - It doesn't take a rocket scientist to understand why a door with a window is a pretty serious security risk. Burglars have the luxury of smashing the glass and simply reaching around to find the latch. Many people with period homes may find themselves having to make a big decision here. We all love a grand, decadent, Victorian door with a stained glass window however there's a definite increased security risk. If you do decide to follow your heart then make sure you check out the decorative bars on offer along with some re-inforced glass. 

 

2) Deadbolts are another great way to improve the security on your front door. Perhaps a replacement for an old chub that's no longer in use. After all, the door is only as good as it's lock.  

 

3) Re-inforce your door frames with London Bars and Birmingham Bars. Many of the period properties in London suffer from frame rot. This is where the door frames have simply eroded from the 100 + years they may well have served throughout their lifetime. Rot or not - You'll be surprised at how little force is needed to break the door frames. One swift kick or a shoulder barge may well be all that's needed to force your door open if your frames are weak. Your local handyman or locksmith should be able to advise what shape and size bar you'll need for this must have security enhancement. For further information check out our feature on a recent London Bar and Birmingham Bar installation in our local Brockley, London area.

 

4) Bushes and shrubbery. Avoid creating a cover or mask for intruders. The more they're hidden and sheltered from the street, the longer they have to work out a way into your home.  

5) One sided deadbolts. Why not add an additional one sided bolt on the inside of your door. You will be able to manually operate this from inside your home and they are almost impossible for burglars to get around. For piece of mind, install one to the top and bottom of your door. Maximum protection against intruders!