3 days Ago
Door frames provide a steady structure for your door to sit in. Thin or cheap frames are often weaker, which means they can be easily broken with force. This is a common method for intruders if no one is home.
Fortunately, there are ways in which you can strengthen these areas, such as installing steel reinforcement plates around the lock and hinge. Ultimately, this will make it harder for people to kick or barge their way through your front door. It also doesn’t break the bank, with plates starting from as little as £5.
Old or worn-out locks are easier to pick or break, but over time, their security mechanisms can become compromised, allowing for easy entry. To avoid this, you should replace your lock if it appears worn out. It’s also recommended that your locks be changed every seven years to ensure they are up to standard.
The average cost of a new lock (plus installation) can be between £100 and £150. Alternatively, you can add a chain lock for added security. So, even if your lock breaks, it will add more security precautions and only cost between £5 and £15.
It’s common for people to hide spare keys outside of their home in case their main set of keys are lost or forgotten. However, what some don’t take into account is that potential intruders are aware of this, so they will know about obvious places, such as under a mat or plant pot. Instead, consider giving a spare key to family, friends or a trusted neighbour.
This gives you a location to retrieve them when needed, adding extra security. If this is not an option, you could hide your keys in more obscure places where a burglar wouldn’t think or know to look. Sliding doors are common exterior doors for the back of properties.
Thieves will target this area as it’s out of sight from the public. Intruders can simply pick these doors up off their tracks without even having to use tools. To prevent this, you can install a heavy-duty floor latch, which attaches the bottom of the door to the floor.
These can be picked up for around £15, so they’re a very affordable way to prevent break-ins. If your wooden front door begins to rot, then this will compromise its structural integrity, making it easier for intruders to break through. It’s caused by insect infestation and moisture absorption, which will require you to purchase a new door.
The average cost of a new door (plus installation) is between £400 and £1,300..
