How To Boost Your French Door Security

How To Boost Your French Door Security

July 17, 2023
By:
Martin Whitmore, President of US Window & Door
enhancing door security with lock

French doors are a beautiful and functional feature in many homes. They seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to fill interiors. However, their design, including multiple glass panels and exterior hinges, can make them vulnerable to burglars. But don't worry; you can enhance the security of your French doors while preserving their beauty.

This blog post will explore effective solutions for securing French doors, including alarm systems, deadbolts, and advanced locks. We'll also discuss the benefits of modern French doors and smart home equipment. By making break-ins more difficult and risky, you can deter burglars and have peace of mind knowing your home is well-protected.

Challenges of Securing French Doors  

While exuding charm and sophistication, French doors also present unique security challenges that require careful thought and strategic planning to mitigate. The primary characteristic of French doors is their multiple glass panels which extend the entire length of the door. Although they afford homeowners gorgeous, framed views of their surroundings, these glass panels can also be shattered by an intruder aiming to access the door's internal mechanisms to reach in and unlock it from the inside.

The sheer visibility through French doors can also pose a risk. While this transparency can create a beautiful flow of natural light, it also provides potential intruders with a clear view of your home's interior, which might include your valuable possessions or even give away whether the house is currently occupied.

milgard secure ultra series french door

Secure your French Door by creating a visible deterrent that would dissuade potential burglars from attempting a break-in in the first place. By making the task of entering your home appear more difficult and time-consuming, you can effectively discourage potential break-ins.

 

How To Make Your French Door and Home More Secure  

To strengthen the security of French doors and address any vulnerabilities, it is crucial to take a comprehensive approach that combines physical reinforcements and modern security technology. This can involve replacing old doors with modern French Doors, upgrading existing hardware like locks and bolts, or incorporating alarm systems. By implementing these measures, the security of your French doors can be significantly improved without compromising their aesthetic appeal. If you're working on replacement French Doors in San Diego, work with a company that can provide high-quality doors and other security experts to ensure the doors come equipped with these security features.

Alarm Systems  

Alarm systems are a critical component in safeguarding your home from potential intruders. The mere presence of an alarm system can act as a deterrent. Still, the real value lies in their functional capabilities. Today's alarm systems are more than just a siren waiting to blare. They are complex networks designed to detect intrusion and alert homeowners or security services immediately.

Integrating glass break detectors into your alarm system is paramount for French doors. The unique frequency of glass shattering triggers these detectors, and they can send an alert or sound an alarm when a door's glass panel is broken. This not only has the potential to scare off intruders but also ensures you or a security service are promptly informed of the breach.

In addition, consider alarm systems with contact sensors that trigger when the door is opened without disarming the system. These sensors can be discreetly installed on the doors and their frames, making it almost impossible for intruders to bypass them without triggering the alarm. Make sure any updates to your French Doors don't void the warranty by checking with your installation company or the manufacturer and always hire a professional security company for the installation.

Deadbolts & Modern Multipoint Door Locks  

When it comes to door security, deadbolts have long been a reliable choice, providing a solid defense against forced entry. However, not all deadbolts offer the same level of security. Modern doors often come equipped with multipoint locking systems to bolster your protection. These systems are particularly beneficial for French doors, which can present unique security challenges.

Aluminum french door handle

For French doors, it is crucial to have a high-quality deadbolt with a one-inch throw. This means that the deadbolt extends one inch into the door frame, providing a more secure hold and making it harder for intruders to force open the door. Additionally, flush or surface bolts can be installed to latch the inactive door to the floor and upper door frame, adding stability and security. Proper installation of these bolts or multipoint locks is essential for optimal functionality, and seeking professional installation is recommended.

Regarding French door locks, a three-point locking system is highly recommended for enhanced security. This locking system secures the door at three points: top, middle, and bottom, providing a robust defense against intruders. In traditional French doors, where one of the doors is less frequently used, the three-point lock should be installed on the primary door.

For advanced security, smart door locks offer additional benefits. These locks can be controlled remotely through a smartphone or smart home system, allowing real-time monitoring and the ability to lock or unlock the doors from anywhere. Smart locks also eliminate the risk of lost keys falling into the wrong hands, as they do not require physical keys.

While deadbolts have long been a reliable choice for door security, modern multipoint locking systems offer enhanced protection, especially for French doors. Installing high-quality deadbolts with a one-inch throw and utilizing flush or surface bolts or multipoint locks can significantly improve security. A three-point locking system, reinforced with slide bolts for double-door French doors, can further fortify the doors against intruders. Smart door locks provide security and convenience by allowing remote control and eliminating the need for physical keys.

 

Fortifying Elegance – Secure Your French Doors, Secure Your Home  

Although French Doors are beautiful and popular amongst homeowners, we cannot compromise the safety of our homes. We outlined security measures that go beyond just physical defenses. They act as a deterrent to potential burglars, making it challenging, time-consuming, and risky for them to breach. By installing advanced alarm systems, high-quality deadbolts, and robust door locks, you can signal to intruders that your home is well-protected.

Integrating smart technology into home security takes it to the next level, providing more control and peace of mind. With the ability to monitor and control your door's security remotely, you can add another dimension to your defense and ensure real-time protection.

However, it's important to remember that every home is unique, and the effectiveness of security measures will vary based on your specific needs and circumstances. It's crucial to thoroughly assess your home's vulnerabilities and consider which solutions will provide the most significant benefits.

We encourage you to explore these options further and seek advice from professional French Door installation companies and security experts to ensure your decisions are well-informed and best suited for your home. Ultimately, the goal is to create a haven for ourselves and our loved ones, and taking action today will help you secure your peace of mind.