Blog Article Two
July 2020
External doors are by far the most attractive point for an intruder to access your home. While intruders have a variety of motives for breaking and entering, one of the most common is theft. No matter the reason, one of the most important deterrents that you can implement is improving your external doors. Before considering things like external door materials and lock systems, it’s also worth thinking about whether your front or back door offer intruders concealment. If, for example, your front door is highly visible to the public, but your back door is not, then you may wish to think about investing a little more in the back external door.
Door Material Types
It’s safe to say that most door materials offer benefits when it comes to sturdiness. Whether it’s uPVC, wood, composite, or metal, an intruder is going to have to go to some pretty extreme measures to break it down. And this will attract a lot of attention thanks to the noise and the frenzied activity of someone hard at work with an axe or battering ram. But the potential use of levers and bars means that locking systems become really important, not to mention door thickness and also the frame.
Many doors have an element of glass incorporated into the design, and there are reasons for this. It lets in light, makes the home less imposing, and enhances the design. However this can pose an issue when it comes to security. Think about using reinforced glass, or placing decorative wrought iron bars behind the glass. You could also place the lock lower down so that, in the event of a forced entry via glass, the intruder cannot reach down to manipulate the lock.
Under Lock and Key
Your locking system is one of the most important factors to consider when you buy your new external doors. With UPVC versions, you should always opt for a multi-lock system, as it’s pretty much impossible to add further locks to these doors once they have been manufactured. The hook, latch, and deadlock poses even the most committed intruder lots of problems. If you choose to install a new wooden door then you have a number of options. You may wish to consider a five lever mortice deadlock, or a Euro Cylinder door if you go for a composite material. Whatever type of lock you choose, always look for the kite mark so that you know it conforms to British safety regulations.
Practical Additions
There are other things to consider if you wish to enhance the security of your new external door. You could, for example, opt to have a spy hole integrated into your door, and / or fit a door chain or limiter. And this may sound a little tedious, but stay on top of your new door’s maintenance. Always check that the hinges are secure, and that the frame is in good condition. If you notice any issues, or if you feel that the lock mechanism is jarring or sticky, then please rectify the issue as soon as possible.
