Open door to boosting security

14 January 2010

FRONT doors are one of the most common points of entry used by intruders. So it is vitally important that you think about securing yours.

If you have a wooden front door the basic level of security would be a deadlocking rim lock with an auto latch mechanism. This known as a Yale lock and should be fitted in the top half of the door.

A mortise lock, or Chubb lock, has to locked and opened with a key. Insurance firms will require you to fit a five-lever lock to British Standard 3621 as a minimum. This should be fitted to the lower half of a door.

The door should be supported by three hinges. In addition, two hinge bolts can be fitted to the hinge side of the door.

Also you should fit a door viewer and door chain to allow you to see who is outside.

You can strengthen the door frame with a London bar or a Birmingham bar. These are metal strips that screw to the inside of the frame to give it extra strength.

Glass panels should be kept to a minimum, and preferably laminated glass should be used.

Most importantly, the entire door itself should be solid. If it is wooden then a minimum thickness of 44mm is suggested.

Double glazed doors are less easy to upgrade. If you are fitting a new door it is vital you fit one with a good locking mechanism. Most come with 'multipoint' locking systems that secure the door into the frame at a number of different places.

Finally, a word about fire safety. Remember your front door may be an escape route in a fire. Do not fit too many locks as it will make a speedy exit impossible.

If you live on the second floor or above you will need to be able to get out of your home without a key. In this case get a lock with a 'thumb turn' on the inside that meets British Standard 5588.