22 December 2015, 12:42
How to secure your doors from the Secure By Design website
A set of secure windows
◾When buying a new a door it is better to buy a new “door set”, the complete assembled frame and door, certified to British Standard PAS 24-1 ‘Doors of Enhanced Security’.
◾If refurbishing a door check that the frame is firmly fixed and sturdy. If it is weak or rotten, replace it.
◾Check that the door hinges are sturdy and secured with strong, long screws.
◾For added security fit hinge bolts or security hinges. These help to reinforce the hinge side of a door against force and protect the hinge if your door opens outwards.
◾If fitting locks to a standard wooden door fit a 5-lever mortise lock plus a night latch or rim lock both tested to BS 3621. These are a minimum insurance requirement.
◾If your door is PVCu or Composite then it should be fitted with a Multipoint lock meeting BS 3621.
◾Europrofile cylinders used on PVCu and Composite doors should meet TS007 and for additional protection use a security door handle.
◾Consider fitting a cage or restrictor on your letterbox to prevent thieves from putting their hands or gadgets through the letterbox.
◾If fitting an external letterbox make sure it is tested to TS009:2012 as this covers free standing or surface mounted letterboxes.
◾Fit a door viewer so you can identify people before opening the door.
◾Door chains can stop callers pushing their way in, but must be securely fixed to avoid screws being pulled out. They will not help secure a locked door against burglary.
Windows & patio doors
Many people focus on securing their doors and forget about their windows and secondary doors in their homes.
◾When buying new windows, install windows which are certified to British Standard BS7950 “Windows of Enhanced Security” or PAS 24: 2012.
◾Window locks are essential on ground floors and above flat roofs. They can be retro fitted to many windows.
◾Glazing may be protected from being smashed with the addition of accredited adhesive window film.
◾Patio doors and conservatories are vulnerable so if not secure install additional locks and security blocks to stop lifting or forced entry.
◾When buying patio doors ask for the sliding section to be on the inside and for anti-lift blocks. Multi-locking systems are recommended or have mortise security bolts with removable keys at the top and bottom of both doors.
A set of secure windows
◾When buying a new a door it is better to buy a new “door set”, the complete assembled frame and door, certified to British Standard PAS 24-1 ‘Doors of Enhanced Security’.
◾If refurbishing a door check that the frame is firmly fixed and sturdy. If it is weak or rotten, replace it.
◾Check that the door hinges are sturdy and secured with strong, long screws.
◾For added security fit hinge bolts or security hinges. These help to reinforce the hinge side of a door against force and protect the hinge if your door opens outwards.
◾If fitting locks to a standard wooden door fit a 5-lever mortise lock plus a night latch or rim lock both tested to BS 3621. These are a minimum insurance requirement.
◾If your door is PVCu or Composite then it should be fitted with a Multipoint lock meeting BS 3621.
◾Europrofile cylinders used on PVCu and Composite doors should meet TS007 and for additional protection use a security door handle.
◾Consider fitting a cage or restrictor on your letterbox to prevent thieves from putting their hands or gadgets through the letterbox.
◾If fitting an external letterbox make sure it is tested to TS009:2012 as this covers free standing or surface mounted letterboxes.
◾Fit a door viewer so you can identify people before opening the door.
◾Door chains can stop callers pushing their way in, but must be securely fixed to avoid screws being pulled out. They will not help secure a locked door against burglary.
Windows & patio doors
Many people focus on securing their doors and forget about their windows and secondary doors in their homes.
◾When buying new windows, install windows which are certified to British Standard BS7950 “Windows of Enhanced Security” or PAS 24: 2012.
◾Window locks are essential on ground floors and above flat roofs. They can be retro fitted to many windows.
◾Glazing may be protected from being smashed with the addition of accredited adhesive window film.
◾Patio doors and conservatories are vulnerable so if not secure install additional locks and security blocks to stop lifting or forced entry.
◾When buying patio doors ask for the sliding section to be on the inside and for anti-lift blocks. Multi-locking systems are recommended or have mortise security bolts with removable keys at the top and bottom of both doors.