Ensuring Home Security: A Guide to Choosing the Right Entry Door

A secure entry door is essential to keep your home and family safe from potential threats. Choosing the right entry door requires careful consideration of various factors, including the type of door, materials, entry door manufacturer, and hardware used. This guide will help you navigate the options and select the best door for your home's security needs.

Types of Entry Doors

There are four main types of entry doors: swing doors, French doors, pivot doors, and casement doors. Swing doors are the most common type of entry door, and they swing open on hinges. French doors are similar to swing doors, but they have glass panels that can add a decorative touch to your entryway. Pivot doors are a newer type of entry door that rotate on a pivot hinge. Casement doors have a hinged sash that opens outward like a casement window, and they often come with a certain level of threshold.

When it comes to security, casement doors are generally considered the most secure type of entry door. Their multi-point locking system and tight seal make them difficult for intruders to pry open. Swing doors, on the other hand, are the least secure due to their single point locking system and the fact that they can easily be kicked in.

Materials for Entry Doors

Entry doors can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common materials used for entry doors:

Steel: Steel doors are known for their strength and durability. They are resistant to wear and tear and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Steel doors are also relatively low maintenance and can be painted to match the exterior of your home. However, steel doors can be susceptible to rust and can dent or scratch easily, which can compromise their security.

Fiberglass: Fiberglass doors are lightweight and durable. They can be designed to mimic the look of wood or steel and are often more energy efficient than other types of entry doors. Fiberglass doors are also resistant to dents, scratches, and rotting. However, they are not as strong as steel or iron doors and may crack or warp over time.

Wood: Wood doors are known for their natural beauty and aesthetic appeal. They are often customizable and can be stained or painted to match your home's exterior. Wood doors are also energy efficient and provide good insulation. However, they are susceptible to warping, rotting, and pests, which can compromise their security.

Iron: Iron doors are the most secure and durable option for entry doors. They are resistant to dents, scratches, and wear and tear, and can provide a high level of security for your home. Iron doors are also highly customizable and can be designed to match the aesthetic of your home. However, iron doors are typically the most expensive option and require regular maintenance to prevent rust.

Hardware:

When it comes to securing your entry door, the type and quality of the hardware you choose can make a big difference. The hardware components of a door include the lockset, hinges, latches, and other parts. Here are some things to consider when choosing hardware for your entry door:

Lockset:

The lockset is the most important hardware component of an entry door. There are many different types of locksets available on the market, including deadbolts, knob locks, lever locks, and smart locks. Deadbolts are the most secure type of lockset and are recommended for front doors. Smart locks are becoming increasingly popular as they offer keyless entry and remote access. Regardless of the type of lockset you choose, be sure to select one that is certified by ANSI/BHMA for security performance.

Hinges:

Hinges are another important hardware component of an entry door. They attach the door to the frame and allow it to swing open and closed. Hinges come in many different sizes, finishes, and materials. Stainless steel hinges are the most durable and rust-resistant, while brass hinges offer a classic look. Be sure to choose hinges that are strong enough to support the weight of your door, and install at least three hinges on the door for added security.

Latches:

Latches keep the door in place when it is closed. The most common type of latch is a dead latch, which automatically locks when the door is closed. Some latches also come with an added feature called a latch bolt, which helps to prevent the door from being pried open. Make sure to select a latch that is compatible with your lockset and that provides a secure fit.

Other parts:

Other parts of the door hardware include peepholes, door knockers, and kickplates. Peepholes allow you to see who is outside your door before opening it. Door knockers are a decorative element that can also be used to alert you when someone is at the door. Kickplates protect the bottom of the door from damage caused by shoes or other objects. While these parts do not directly affect the security of the door, they can still be important to consider.

When selecting hardware for your entry door, be sure to choose high-quality components that are compatible with your door type and offer the level of security you need. Look for products that are certified by reputable organizations such as ANSI/BHMA, and consider consulting with a professional to ensure proper installation.

Security Certifications

The hardware you choose for your entry door can also affect its security. Deadbolts, strike plates, and door viewers are all important components of a secure entry door. Look for hardware that is durable and tamper-resistant to ensure that your entry door is as secure as possible.

When shopping for a secure entry door, look for doors that have been certified by reputable security organizations like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). These organizations test and rate doors based on their ability to resist forced entry, impact resistance, and other factors.

In addition to certifications, look for an entry door manufacturer that meets North American Standards (NAS). These standards are set by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and provide guidelines for door construction, materials, and security features.