Your home’s first line of defense is its entrance. When intruders target properties, they seek vulnerable entryways. A weak door, flimsy frame, or outdated lock can make your home an easy target.
At MUNZ Roofing, we help homeowners select secure, durable entry doors that not only enhance safety but also complement their homes. In this guide, we’ll explain how to choose the right doors for home security and provide recommendations for the best materials, locks, and installation options.
Door Security Essentials
A secure door is a combination of quality materials, reinforced framing, and proper locking mechanisms. A hollow-core door might look sturdy, but it lacks the strength to withstand forced entry. A solid-core or metal door, paired with a strong frame and advanced locks, provides significantly better protection.
Even the sturdiest door can be compromised if paired with a weak frame. Intruders often target the door frame rather than the door itself, making reinforced strike plates and steel reinforcements essential additions.
Selecting the Right Door Material
The material of your entry door plays a crucial role in both security and longevity. Here’s how common materials compare:
Steel
Best for strength and impact resistance, steel doors like the Therma-Tru Steel Entry Door offer superior security. They are difficult to kick in and resist warping, making them a top choice for main entrances.
Fiberglass
Low maintenance yet highly durable, fiberglass doors like the Pella Fiberglass Entry Door provide excellent impact resistance and insulation, making them ideal for New Jersey’s varying climate.
Solid Wood
While traditional wood doors provide a classic aesthetic, they need reinforcement with a steel core or impact-resistant features to meet modern security needs.
Upgrading to Secure Locking Mechanisms
A high-quality door lock is just as important as the door itself. Here’s what you should consider:
- Deadbolts – A single-cylinder deadbolt with a minimum 1-inch throw into a reinforced strike plate offers solid protection. Consider the Schlage B60 for a balance of affordability and security.
- Multi-Point Locking Systems – Unlike standard deadbolts, multi-point locks, like those from Emtek, secure the door at multiple locations. These are ideal for french doors and large entryways.
- Smart Locks – Keyless entry provides remote access control and eliminates the risks of lost or stolen keys. Options like the August Smart Lock Pro allow you to lock and unlock doors from anywhere using your smartphone.
Understanding Security Ratings
Not all doors provide the same level of protection. Look for security ratings that indicate durability and resistance to forced entry:
- ASTM F476 Standard – Measures a door’s resistance to forceful entry.
- SDI Level 3+ – Common for commercial doors but available for residential upgrades.
- Impact-Resistance Ratings – Hurricane-rated doors, like those from ProVia, withstand high winds and forced impact.
Investing in a door with a high-security rating ensures better protection for your home and family.
Installation Needs
A properly installed door eliminates gaps, ensures locks function correctly, and reinforces weak points. Professional installation helps:
- Prevent misalignment that could make the door easier to break.
- Ensure the lock and deadbolt engage fully in the frame.
- Secure hinges and strike plates for maximum durability.
Even a high-security door won’t offer full protection if it’s not installed correctly. That’s why working with a professional team like MUNZ Roofing ensures your new door is both stylish and secure.
MUNZ Roofing: Your Trusted Partner in Exterior Home Solutions
Selecting the right doors for home security is about more than aesthetics – it’s about safeguarding your home from potential threats. The right material, lock, and installation can mean the difference between a secure home and a vulnerable one.
If you’re ready to upgrade your home with a professionally installed entry door, contact MUNZ at (215) 709-7659. We’ll help you select and install high-quality doors that enhance both security and curb appeal.
