Outward-opening doors, while charming and sometimes architecturally significant, often present unique security challenges. Unlike inward-opening doors that are naturally reinforced by the frame when forced, outward-opening doors require specific security measures. This comprehensive guide will walk you through practical steps to significantly enhance the security of your outward-opening doors, protecting your home and loved ones.
Understanding the Vulnerabilities of Outward-Opening Doors
Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand why outward-opening doors are more vulnerable:
- Easier to Pry Open: The hinges are on the outside, making them more accessible to forced entry attempts. Burglars can easily attack the hinges with tools, potentially removing the door from its frame.
- Less Resistance: The door's momentum when forced is directed outward, away from the frame, potentially causing less immediate resistance than an inward-opening door.
- Limited Reinforcement Options: Standard door reinforcement kits often assume inward-opening doors, necessitating slightly different approaches for outward-opening doors.
Strengthening Your Outward-Opening Door Security
Here's a breakdown of effective strategies to bolster your door's security:
1. Reinforce the Hinges:
- Heavy-Duty Hinges: Replace standard hinges with heavy-duty, non-removable hinges. These are typically made of stronger materials and have features that prevent them from being easily removed. Consider hinges with tamper-resistant screws or those that require a special tool for removal.
- Hinge Pins: Install hinge pins that are non-removable or those that require a special tool to remove. This prevents someone from easily removing the pin and taking the door off its hinges.
- Secure Hinge Sides: Consider adding a metal plate or reinforcing the door frame around the hinges to make it more difficult to pry them open.
2. Upgrade the Door Lock:
- High-Security Deadbolt: Install a high-security deadbolt lock, ideally with a long throw bolt that extends deep into the doorjamb. Look for deadbolts with features like hardened steel bolts and pick-resistant cylinders.
- Reinforce the Strike Plate: Replace the standard strike plate with a heavy-duty strike plate, ideally secured with longer screws that go deep into the door frame. This prevents the strike plate from being easily ripped out.
- Consider a Secondary Lock: Adding a secondary lock, such as a chain lock or a vertical bolt lock, provides an extra layer of security.
3. Enhance the Door Frame:
- Solid Door Frame: Ensure your door frame is made of solid, strong material and properly secured to the wall. A weak door frame is a weak point in your security.
- Reinforce the Frame: Consider adding extra support to the door frame, particularly around the hinges and the strike plate, by reinforcing it with metal plates.
4. Additional Security Measures:
- Security Camera: Install a security camera near your outward-opening door to deter potential burglars and record any attempted break-ins.
- Exterior Lighting: Well-lit areas around your exterior doors make it more difficult for intruders to operate unnoticed.
- Alarm System: Consider installing a home security system that includes door sensors, providing immediate alerts in case of forced entry.
Professional Help: When to Call a Locksmith
If you're unsure about any of these steps or if you have an older door with unique security needs, it's best to consult a qualified locksmith. A locksmith can assess your specific situation and recommend the most effective security measures tailored to your outward-opening door. They can also install the security upgrades for you, ensuring proper installation and maximum effectiveness.
By following these steps, you can significantly enhance the security of your outward-opening doors, providing peace of mind and protecting your home from potential threats. Remember, layers of security are crucial; combine several of these techniques for optimal protection.
