Best Ways to Reinforce Your Front Door Against Break-Ins (Step-by-Step Guide)

Why Your Front Door Is the #1 Target for Burglars



Did you know that over 60% of home break-ins start at the front or back door? Most homeowners think their deadbolt is enough—but standard doors and locks fail under pressure.

At Safeside, we specialize in door fortification that stops break-ins before they happen. In this guide, we’ll break down how burglars force their way in—and how you can stop them with the right security upgrades.


1. The 3 Most Common Ways Burglars Break Through Doors


✔ Weak Door Jambs (Frames) Splinter Under Force

Most doors are installed with thin wooden door jambs, which break easily when kicked or forced with a crowbar.

✔ Cheap Locks & Deadbolts Are Easily Compromised

Standard deadbolts can be bypassed in seconds with lock-picking tools or brute force.

✔ Exposed Hinges & Strike Plates Are Weak Points

If your door opens outward, burglars can remove hinge pins and take the door off its frame.


2. How to Reinforce Your Front Door (Step-by-Step Guide)


🔹 Step 1: Strengthen the Door Jamb & Frame

Solution: Install high-strength metal reinforcement plates and replace short screws with long, 3.5” steel screws that anchor deep into the studs.


🔹 Step 2: Upgrade to a High-Security Deadbolt

Solution: Replace standard deadbolts with Grade 1 deadbolts that resist picking, drilling, and bumping.


🔹 Step 3: Install a Reinforced Strike Plate

Solution: Use a heavy-duty, deep-set strike plate that absorbs impact from kicks and forceful attacks.


🔹 Step 4: Protect Hinges & Latches

Solution: Use hinge reinforcement pins and latch guards to prevent prying.


🔹 Step 5: Consider a Multi-Point Locking System

Solution: Multi-point locks secure the door at multiple points, making forced entry nearly impossible.


3. Bonus Security Tips for Front Door Protection


✔ Use a Door Barricade for Extra Nighttime Security


A reinforced door barricade makes it impossible to force the door open while you’re home.

✔ Install a Security Film on Glass Panels


If your front door has glass panels, install 12mm security film to prevent smash-and-grab intrusions.

✔ Upgrade Outdoor Lighting & Smart Security


Motion-activated floodlights deter criminals from approaching your entryway.


4. Why DIY Isn’t Always the Best Option


Many homeowners attempt DIY door reinforcement, but improper installation can weaken security rather than strengthen it.



Approximately 34% of burglars enter through the front door.

At Safeside, we offer professional front door fortification that ensures every weak point is properly secured.


🔹 Want real door security? Get a FREE assessment today!


📞 Contact us today or request a quote online by clicking here.

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