How many locks should a front door have? You will ask yourself this question because you might have just watched a movie about securing your home. And it would have made you wonder that if business security professionals know that the number one method of entry for burglars is through the front door then we should at least make our door as strong as possible. To answer the above question, we present to you this article.
How Many Locks Should A Front Door Have?
It’s important to have adequate security on your home, which is why many people install deadbolts and locks on their front doors. But how many deadbolts should a front door have?
The answer depends on what level of security you want to achieve. Most people will find that two deadbolts are enough, but if you’re worried about burglars breaking into your home, three is better.
The first lock is usually an exterior handle lock, which can be opened from the outside with a key but can’t be opened from the inside without a key. The second lock is usually an interior deadbolt lock (sometimes referred to as a thumb turn or latch bolt), which can only be opened from inside the house without a key. The third lock is typically another exterior handle lock that has no function other than for looks (some people like having it there for convenience).
If you are looking to secure your house, you can follow these steps.
How To Secure Your Front Door
1. Get A Solid Door
The first step toward keeping intruders out is to get a solid door. You should make sure that your front door is made of hardwood or metal with a steel reinforcement on the frame. The best front doors are those that are reinforced with steel bars running through them vertically and horizontally. This ensures that even if someone tries to break down your door, they won’t be able to do it easily. In addition, these types of doors are more resistant to fire and heat than other types of doors.
2. Install Sturdy Locks
If you have an older home, it may have locks that are easy to break or even pick. If you’ve had any issues with theft in the past, this is especially important to consider.
If you have a keyed entry lock, make sure it’s sturdy and secure by checking for gaps between the frame and door when locked. These gaps create an opportunity for burglars to enter via jimmying or lock picking techniques.
It is recommended to get a lock that is certified by ANSI/BHMA for anti-theft, breaking etc. This will make sure that the lock is sturdy and tough enough to withstand burgling activities.
3. Secure Other Entry Points
Although most people think of their front door as their only entrance point, there are other points of entry into the home that should also be secured. Windows and sliding glass doors offer easy access to burglars who want to gain entry without having to break down a door. You should always lock these doors when you’re not at home, even if it’s just for a few minutes while you run errands or go out for dinner with friends and family members.
4. Replace Strike Plate
The strike plate is a metal plate that is used to secure the door in the frame. A good way to secure your home is to replace the strike plate. This will make it harder for criminals to kick in your door. The best way to do this is by replacing it with a more heavy-duty one such as a deadbolt or security strike plate.
The reason why this works so well is because if you have a solid deadbolt, then it makes it much harder for someone to kick through your door. Even if they managed to get through their first attempt, they still need to break through another door before getting into your house which takes longer and more effort on their part. So if you want your home to be secure, get yourself some security strike plates and lock them up tight!
5. Install Security Cameras and Peepholes
Add a security camera or peephole to your front door. This makes it easier to see who is at the door so you can decide whether or not to open it. It also lets you see if anyone is lurking around outside while you’re away from home.
A security camera can help deter would-be criminals from entering your home. If someone sees that there’s a camera on the front door, they might decide to look elsewhere for an easier target.
A peephole allows you to see who is outside before opening the door. This can prevent you from letting someone into your home who could have dangerous intentions, such as a stranger who claims they need help or someone who wants money or valuables.
6. Change Your Door Locks
If you have handed out keys to anyone other than family members or close friends, change the locks immediately. This includes giving spare keys to someone who may have helped out during an emergency situation such as a burglary or fire damage. The key should be changed at the earliest convenience so that there is no chance of anyone having access to your home without your knowledge.
Don’t give out copies of your keys, as this leaves your home vulnerable to theft. If someone needs access, ask them to wait for you at the front door until you get back from work or an errand.
7. Use Keyless Door Locks
Keyless door locks can help you keep out unwanted visitors. These locks are easy to install and have a keypad that enables you to open the door without having to use a physical key. This type of security system is great for homes with children and elderly people who may not be able to get out of the house in case of an emergency. It will also help prevent burglaries because intruders cannot use keys to gain access into the building.
8. Keep Your Outdoor Lights On At Night
If someone breaks into your house in the middle of the night, they want to be able to get in without being seen. The best way to prevent this is by keeping your outdoor lights on at night. This will make it difficult for intruders to sneak around without being seen.
Your lights are more effective if they are strategically placed and well maintained. The more light there is, the less likely someone is to hide in darkness. If you have motion-sensor lights, make sure they work properly and aren’t set off by animals or passing cars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which Door Lock Brand Are The Best In Terms Of Security?
There are many different door lock brands on the market. Some of the most popular brands include Abus, Baldwin, Schlage, Kwikset and Yale. Each of these brands offers a variety of different styles and types of locks. All of these locks can be used to secure your home as they are the most reliable.
2. Can I Use Electronic Locks On A Front Door?
The short answer is yes! You can use electronic locks on any doors you want, including your front door. The question that often comes up is whether or not it’s safe to leave an electronic lock on your front door. You need to buy those locks which are rated good.
3. Are Deadbolts The Most Secure Locks For Front Doors?
Deadbolts are the most secure locks for front doors because they have a long, vertical shaft that extends into the door frame. This makes it impossible to pry open a deadbolt lock with a screwdriver or other tool. The only way to open a deadbolt is by turning the key from outside or inside the door frame.
Conclusion
While one lock is sufficient to secure your front door, you may choose to add a second lock if you feel the need for additional security. These sort of measures are encouraged to ensure that you are secure and safe.
The above article explained that adding only additional lock is not enough, you need to make sure that you follow the above precautionary measures to remain safe and sound.
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