Home security is a topic that is becoming increasingly important in today’s world. With rising crime rates and burglaries occurring more frequently than ever, homeowners must take measures to secure their homes. One of the most common entry points for burglars is the front door, so exploring the best ways to secure a door from the inside is essential.
While many options are available on the market, the solution you choose should effectively keep intruders out of your home without compromising the aesthetic appeal of your door and the overall beauty. There are several simple and affordable ways to secure your door from the inside that do not involve a significant investment.
One way to secure your door is to install a deadbolt. Deadbolts are sturdy and durable, and when installed correctly, they can make it difficult for someone to force their way into your home. Another option is installing a door jammer, which prevents the door from opening outside. Door jammers are especially useful if you are traveling or leaving your house unattended for an extended period.
Furthermore, technology has advanced to the point where security systems are accessible to the average homeowner. Various sensors and alarms can detect when someone is trying to break in and alert homeowners immediately. Shatter-resistant window film can be installed to make it more challenging for intruders to break in through windows.
When considering the best way to secure a door from the inside, homeowners should consider their specific needs. It is essential to select solutions that blend seamlessly with the design of their homes and are easy to use. With the right combination of security measures, homeowners can ensure their homes are secure and safe for themselves and their families.
12 Ideas to Secure Front Door
- Choose the Right Door Material: Opt for solid materials like metal or solid wood instead of hollow or glass doors, which are easier to break.
- Upgrade Your Locks: Install a deadbolt lock, which is much stronger than a traditional doorknob lock. Consider a smart lock for keyless entry and additional security features.
- Reinforce Door Frames and Hinges: Upgrade to a reinforced metal door frame or install a security plate for existing ones. Replace shorter screws in hinges with 3-inch or longer screws for better stability.
- Install a Strike Plate: This metal plate strengthens the area around the lock and keyhole, making it harder for a burglar to kick in the door.
- Peephole or Door Viewer Installation: A peephole lets you see who is outside without opening the door. Opt for a wide-angle viewer to see more of the outside.
- Install a Door Chain or Latch: This allows you to partially open the door to verify someone’s identity before fully opening it.
- Add a Security Bar or Door Brace: A security bar or brace can prevent the door from being opened from the outside, even if the lock is picked.
- Upgrade to a Smart Doorbell: These devices have built-in cameras, microphones, and speakers, allowing you to see, hear, and speak to anyone at your door, even remotely.
- Security Film for Glass Panels: If your door has glass panels, apply a security film to make them harder to break.
- Install a Security System: A comprehensive security system, including door sensors and security cameras, can deter burglars and alert you to unauthorized entry attempts.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check your door, frame, and locks for any sign of damage and repair as necessary. A well-maintained door is a more substantial barrier to entry.
- Lighting: Install motion sensor lighting outside your front door to deter potential intruders.
How to secure the front door?
To improve front door security, please do the following steps:
- Replace the short metal plate in your door with a long metal plate
- Replace all screws in your door with longer 3-inch screws
- If you have a hollow door, replace it with a solid door
- Always add a lock so the door can be opened from inside
- Add “portable door lock brace” from inside door
- Add a “security lock door barricade.”
Best Way to Secure a Door From the Inside
The Best Way to Secure a Door From the Inside is to use a door jammer portable door lock brace. A portable door locks brace costs around $30 and is easy to install and remove. A portable door lock brace will prevent forced door opening, lock bumping, and key bumping. Additionally, you can add a security lock door barricade and increase safety.
A door jammer, or portable door lock brace, has, in my opinion, eight advantages:
- Portability: As the name implies, this device is portable and lightweight, making it easy to carry when traveling. It is particularly beneficial for providing extra security in hotel rooms or rentals.
- Ease of Installation: It doesn’t require specific tools or technical know-how for installation would help if youYplacedace it correctly, and it’s ready to protect.
- Non-Damaging: Unlike some security measures, a door jammer doesn’t cause any damage to the door or the frame, as no drilling or screws are required. This makes it an excellent option for renters who may not be allowed to make alterations to their residences.
- Adequate Additional Security: A door jammer can prevent a door from opening, even if the primary lock is picked or broken. It acts as an extra layer of security that can deter intruders.
- Universal Fit: Most door jammers are adjustable and designed for various door types and sizes.
- Affordable: Compared to other security measures, door jammers cost around $30, making them a cost-effective addition to your security setup.
- Privacy: In situations where you might not trust the existing lock (like in a hotel or Airbnb), a door jammer can give you an added sense of privacy and security.
- Emergency Safety: In some models, a quick-release feature allows the brace to be quickly removed in an emergency, ensuring it doesn’t become a safety hazard if you need to exit quickly.
A portable door lock brace or a door jammer is an excellent tool to secure a door from the inside, providing an extra layer of security. This device is handy when you don’t control the existing lock system, like in a hotel or rental property. Here’s how it works and how to install a door jammer:
- Purchase a Portable Door Lock Brace: Choose a high-quality model that fits the design and dimensions of your door. Ensure that it is adjustable to fit different door heights.
- Prepare the Door: Ensure that the door is closed and properly latched.
- Position the Yoke: The portable door lock brace typically has a “yoke” or a hook at one end. Slide this part under the door handle or knob. Ensure that the yoke fits securely under the handle.
- Position the Foot: The other end of the brace, often called the “foot,” should be flat on the floor. It should be positioned so that the brace is at an angle, with the foot against the floor and the yoke under the handle.
- Adjust the Brace Length: Many door lock braces are adjustable. Extend or retract the brace until it’s pushing upward against the door handle and downward against the floor, creating a firm resistance.
- Test the Door: Gently try to open the door. If the brace is installed correctly, the door should not open. If the door does open, adjust the brace and test again.
- Removal: When you want to open the door, remove the brace by retracting it if it’s adjustable, lifting the yoke off the handle, and then lifting the foot off the floor.
Portable Door Lock Brace to Secure a Door From the Inside
- Structure and Design: A portable door lock brace is usually a two-part metal device that you can attach to your door from the inside without any special tools. One part hooks under the door knob or lever, and the other (the “foot”) braces against the floor. The device uses the floor’s strength to counteract attempts to force the door open.
- Installation: To install a portable door lock brace, you slide the yoke (the part of the brace that hooks under the door handle) under the knob or lever. The foot end of the brace should rest flat on the floor. You then adjust the length of the brace so that it’s pushing upward against the handle and downward against the floor, creating a solid brace that can withstand a significant amount of force.
- Use: When the door lock brace is installed correctly, it can help prevent the door from being opened, even if the existing lock is picked or broken. The angle and pressure of the brace against the floor create a powerful resistance that can deter most forced-entry attempts.
Security Lock Door Barricade to Secure a Door From the Inside
Another method to secure a door from the inside is to use a security lock door barricade. This device can be combined with a portable door lock brace for increased security.
- Structure and Design: A door barricade is a device that prevents a door from opening inward. It typically consists of a bar or rod secured to the floor or door frame on one end and rests against the door on the other.
- Installation: To install a door barricade, you’ll usually need to attach one end to the floor, wall, or door frame using included brackets and screws. The bar or rod can be removed or swung out of the way when not in use.
- Use: To secure the door, you put the bar or rod in place across the middle of the door, resting one end in the bracket and positioning the other end against the door. The barricade works by absorbing and distributing the force of a kick or push, making it much harder for an intruder to force the door open.
Both the portable door lock brace and the security lock door barricade are valuable tools that can significantly enhance the security of your doors. They’re easy to use and can be installed without needing a professional, making them a cost-effective way to improve your home’s or rental’s safety.
Conclusion
Securing a door from the inside involves several strategies, each contributing to your safety and peace of mind. While locks and deadbolts provide a first line of defense, additional devices such as a portable door lock brace and a security lock door barricade considerably enhance door security.
The portable door lock brace is particularly beneficial when you have little control over the existing lock system, such as in a hotel or rented property. It provides a substantial physical barrier against forced entry, with the brace’s design utilizing the floor’s resistance to keep the door shut.
The security lock door barricade provides an added level of security. Installed directly on the door or floor, it prevents inward door opening by distributing the force of an attempted break-in across a larger area, making the door more difficult to breach.
Together, these tools significantly improve the security of a door from the inside. However, it’s crucial to remember that door security forms just one part of a comprehensive home security plan. Window security, alarm systems, and vigilant awareness of your surroundings are essential for overall security.
From 2022 onwards, Mark has also been contributing author of home repair articles at nimblefreelancer.com.
Read more on Mark Brown's biography page.
Contact Mark: mark@nimblefreelancer.com
