Your front door is only as strong as its frame

Most forced entries don't defeat the lock. A kick splits the frame at the strike plate and the door swings open with the bolt still out.

Longer strike-plate screws

Swap the two short screws in the strike plate for 3-inch screws that reach the stud. Ten minutes, big difference.

Full bolt throw

With the door closed, the deadbolt should turn without pushing or lifting the door. A half-thrown bolt is easy to force.

Hinges and glass

Exposed hinge pins can be tapped out; security hinges stop that. Glass within reach of a thumb-turn is a weak point.

After an attempt

Repair a cracked frame before trusting any lock on it, and rekey if a key may be missing. Professional deadbolt installation can cover both in one visit.

Serving Windsor and the surrounding area: see our Windsor locksmith page.