Home And Personal Security: Door Security
Your front door is the first line of defense against burglars seeking to gain access to your home and your valuables. You'll want your door to look strong, to discourage thieves, and to actually be strong enough to repel those who make an attempt at burglary. Here are some tips to consider about all the doors to your home.
Your front door should be physically strong, made of a tough, durable wood. For added protection, the door can be layered with metal or laminate panels. A door is only as strong as its hinges, so don't overlook this vital security component; consider having the hinges installed on the interior, as this hinders a burglar's ability to damage or break them. You may also consider an exterior gate in front of the door, to provide an additional layer of security. A gate essentially acts as a second door, and forces a burglar to work that much harder to get inside your home.
A strong lock is the perfect complement to a sturdy door. There are several types of locks to choose from, with the most common arrangement being a dual handle lock/deadbolt combination. Multiple locks mean the inconvenience of multiple keys, but this is a small price to pay for your home's security. Adding a chain to your door is another good idea; a chain allows you to further control entry into your home, and is useful in screening visitors.
It is just as important to properly secure any other doors that allow entrance into your house. A back door offers an inviting target to burglars, since it is usually not visible from the street or to your neighbors. Secure a back door as you would the front. Patio doors, particularly of the sliding glass variety, are also tempting targets and are traditionally the favorite means for a thief to enter your home. Sliding glass doors can be easily removed from their tracks; secure them with a deadbolt catch along the runners, and limit the extent to which they may be opened with a metal bar placed in the track. Make sure the glass itself is sturdy and undamaged, and consider using a clear laminate to further buttress the door's strength.
Once you have all of your doors and locks in place, take some time each month to inspect their condition and perform any necessary minor maintenance. Test the hinges, any glass components, seals and locks for full functionality and to make sure they are still intact. Hire a professional immediately to address any maintenance needs beyond the scope of your abilities.
It only takes a little time and money to address your home security needs, so make the effort. A house that looks well cared for and in good condition is itself a deterrent to potential burglars, and having the actual security measures in place to defeat thieves will provide you with that much more peace of mind.
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