Complete Guide to Enhancing Front Door Security

If you’re confident your front door is secure, it can bring peace of mind and help you sleep soundly at night. However, if you’re unsure where to start in improving your door’s safety, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
You can enhance the security of your front door with simple upgrades, or go all out and revamp your entire entry system. Whatever you choose, you’ll feel more secure knowing your family is protected.

1. Go for a Solid-Core Door

Solid-core doors are an excellent choice for enhancing front door security. With a thick, strong center, these doors are much more resistant to force than hollow-core doors, which are best used for interior spaces. Additionally, many solid-core doors are fire-rated, adding another layer of protection. Replacing your front door is a worthwhile investment, and the cost depends on the complexity and materials of the door you select.

2. Install a Wide-Angle Peephole

An upgraded peephole offers a much clearer view of your front entryway. By installing a wide-angle peephole, you’ll be able to see who’s at the door, no matter where they’re standing—giving you more time to assess whether you should answer.

3. Rekey Your Lock

If you’ve recently moved into your home or are concerned about misplaced spare keys, consider rekeying your front door lock. A locksmith can easily change the lock mechanism so that old keys no longer work, providing you with new keys for added security. Keep spare keys hidden and only share them with trusted individuals.

4. Use Strike Plates with Large Screws

The effectiveness of your deadbolt depends on the strength of its strike plate. If the screws on the strike plate are too short (less than 2 ½ inches), the deadbolt won’t provide as much security. Replacing these screws with longer ones will reinforce your front door and make it more resistant to forced entry.

5. Keep Your Hinges Inside the Home

A common security oversight is having outward-facing hinges on exterior doors. If your door hinges are on the outside, a burglar could easily remove them to gain access. Ensure your front door hinges are inside the home. If they aren’t, a door repair expert can help correct this issue.

6. Keep the Outdoors Brightly Lit

Good lighting is essential for deterring intruders. A well-lit exterior ensures that anyone near your door is visible to passersby, making them think twice about breaking in. Installing motion-sensor lights around your front entryway can cost between $50 and $300, depending on where you live, and it’s a small price to pay for enhanced security.

7. Protect Glass Front Doors

Glass doors look beautiful but can be a weak point in your home’s security. To make them more secure, consider applying a security film. While it won’t make the glass indestructible, it will slow down any attempts to break through. If your glass is not tempered, replacing it with tempered glass is a good idea—this type of glass crumbles rather than shatters, reducing injury risks.

8. Upgrade to a Keyless Front Door Lock

Switching to a keyless entry system adds a modern touch to your home security. Many keyless locks come with deadbolts, and you can easily change the code if you suspect someone else has gained access to it. Keyless entry systems start around $150, and they can be installed either by yourself or a professional. Plus, some systems allow you to control them remotely via your smartphone, so you can lock or unlock the door from anywhere.

9. Invest in a Video Doorbell System

Video doorbells have become increasingly popular due to the extra layer of security they provide. They allow you to see and communicate with visitors remotely, even if you’re not at home. Many video doorbells also include video recording and community sharing features, helping you stay aware of what’s happening around your neighborhood. If you have pets, a video system lets you check on them when you’re away.

10. Lock Your Front Door

This might seem like an obvious recommendation, but surveys show that many people don’t lock their doors, even when they are home. The most crucial step in securing your home is simply keeping the front door locked, whether you have a traditional lock or a high-tech keyless system.

Complete Guide to Enhancing Front Door Security
Many of the steps listed above, like installing a keyless lock, are DIY-friendly. However, if you’re aiming for a more complex security system, it’s a good idea to consult a home security expert to ensure everything is installed correctly. This will help ensure your security system works as intended and keeps you and your family safe.
The average cost of installing a professional security system is around $745, but this will vary based on the complexity and type of system you choose. Investing in proper front door security is an important step in safeguarding your home and loved ones.