Your front door is the gateway to your home. Ensuring its security is paramount. Beyond deterring unwanted guests, a sturdy door and robust locking mechanisms can buy you precious time in an emergency or during extreme weather. Let’s delve into some of the most effective ways to boost front door security.

What is the most secure front door?

Our range of sustainably sourced external doors makes all the difference when it comes to creating a safer home. We stock designs that are both thermally efficient and help boost kerb appeal while retaining that safe and secure feel.

Composite front doors

A composite front door is a contemporary style of external door made from a combination of materials, specifically chosen for their strengths and benefits. Composite doors offer enhanced performance in several areas. Typically, they provide a great balance of security, insulation, low maintenance, and aesthetics.

Oak front doors

An oak front door is a classic choice. They can be made from solid oak wood or oak veneer and are known for their durability, beauty and enduring appeal. The weight and strength of oak naturally deter potential intruders, making it a good choice for security. Oak doors can be fitted with reinforced locks and other security features.

Glazed front doors

Are glazed doors secure? It depends on the specific features. 

Opt for stronger glass types, smaller panels, secure locks and consider security standards like PAS 24 when selecting a glazed front door. You may also want to choose a front door with frosted glass to boost privacy levels. 

While they may not be as inherently secure as solid doors, glazed options offer benefits like natural light and aesthetics. Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities and risk tolerance.

What does PAS24 approved mean?

Overall, You may want to consider a PAS24 approved front door. This is a security standard for windows and doors in the UK, specifically designed to resist opportunistic burglars.

It essentially means that a window or door has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it can withstand a certain level of attempted break-in. Insurance companies also prefer PAS24 approved front doors.

How to secure a front door: the basics

Authorities such as the Metropolitan Police recommend combining a multi point locking system with a door chain and peep hole for optimum front door security. 

Additionally, when you’re ready to buy door hardware online, look for products that are Secured by Design approved.

This is the official police security initiative for the UK. They work to improve the security of buildings and stringently assess products.

Most common front door security products

Door peephole
Also known as a ‘peek hole’, spyhole, doorhole, magic eye, magic mirror or door viewer. This is a small, round opening installed in a door that allows you to see who’s outside without opening the door. It offers a safe and discreet way to identify visitors before granting them entry.

Door chain
Also known as a security chain, security door chain, or chain door interviewer. This is a secondary security measure for doors. It consists of a small chain attached to the door frame on one end and a track or latch on the door itself on the other. A door chain allows you to partially open the door when someone visits, putting you in control in terms of whether you want to let someone in or not. 

Deadbolt
This is a sturdy, reliable lock that offers an extra layer of security for your doors. Unlike standard doorknobs or latches that use spring mechanisms, deadbolts are operated by a key or thumb turn that throws a thick, solid bolt into a reinforced metal plate on the door frame. This makes them much harder to break or jimmy open compared to other types of locks.

Smart home devices
It’s also a good idea to make the most of the latest smart home innovations. For example, a smart doorbell. This is a video doorbell that combines the functions of a traditional doorbell with a built-in camera and often a microphone and speaker. This allows you to see and hear who is at your door, even when you’re not home, through your smartphone or other connected device.

Front door security: Additional recommendations

For that ultimate ‘safe home’ feeling, you may want to consider extra home security measures that help keep your front door (and the rest of your home) protected. 

Mail cage
Install a secure mail cage around the letterbox to collect mail and deter thieves.

CCTV
Get CCTV cameras installed for monitoring and potential evidence gathering. 

Motion sensor lights
Install motion sensor lights around your front porch to deter night time thieves.

Smart letterbox
Invest in a design which offers video, remote unlocking and parcel collection alerts.

Alarm system
Consider a comprehensive system with door and window sensors and alarm sirens. 

Door sensor alarms
To provide an immediate alert when the door is opened or tampered with. 

It’s essential to ensure your new front door (or any exterior door) is secured properly. Take time to correctly research quality products and regularly review your alarm systems and locking systems are still functioning as they should be. 

Front door security: Proactive measures

Just moved house and dealing with an old door? Your first priority should be to change your locks. But a reliable locksmith can do much more than that.

A locksmith belonging to the Master Locksmiths Association can check to see if your door is secure and made of solid timber or a robust composite. They can also reinforce the frame and check if the locks and hinges are British Standard approved.

What are the best anti theft measures?

Maintain good habits
Always double-check your door is locked, even when you’re home. Don’t leave keys hidden outside.

Trim your landscaping
Avoid dense shrubs or plants around your door that could conceal potential intruders.

Improve outdoor lighting
Install brighter lights near your entrance to deter night time threats. Motion-sensor lights can be particularly effective.

Be aware of your surroundings
Pay attention to unusual activity around your home and report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities.

Get to know your neighbours
Foster a sense of community. Look out for each other within your local area and encourage neighbours to look out for suspicious activity and report any concerns.

Your journey to enhanced front door security

The best approach to securing a front door involves layering multiple measures. Choose the methods that best suit your budget and risk level to create a strong and secure entry point for your home. Ready for a new front door? Buy front doors online today in just a few clicks or talk to our team about your needs.