Security is an important concern for all of us, whether you live out in the sticks or in the inner city of Toronto. We all want to avoid becoming the victims of a home invasion, and we are aware that the best way to do so is by securing our homes against unwanted intruders. The entry doors are usually at the heart of our home security strategies. It’s vital that our doors are sturdy and secure, not only in order to stop an intruder from gaining entry, but to prevent the attempt in the first place. Coupling the right entry doors with extra security features is the best way to protect your home from burglars.
What Are the Best Entry Doors for Home Security?
When it comes to choosing doors for a property renovation, security often takes a back seat to aesthetic considerations. People are more likely to choose a certain door because they believe the material or style is a better fit in terms of its appearance. While nobody wants to end up with an ugly door, it is vital that you weigh security considerations at least equally with appearance. In order to do this successfully, there are a few things to look out for:
- If using timber, choose the types which offer more stability – timber doors are by far the most popular choice for new constructions and renovations in and around Toronto. Not all timbers, of course, are alike. Some are more prone to twisting and warping than others, causing potential security risks. This applies to both softwoods and hardwoods. To overcome these issues, you can opt to go with laminated or stabilized oak, which is usually made of smaller, glued sections. Alternatively, go for Accoya – a heat treated timber developed in the Netherlands.
- If you’re not keen on timber, consider PVCu – More stable options than timber tend to be more expensive, but it’s often worth paying more for the added dimensional stability. PVCu doors are built around a steel frame, and are then fitted with multipoint locks. The material itself isn’t particularly strong, so these features serve to reinforce the doors.
- If security is a major concern in your neighbourhood, consider steel doors – Steel entry doors don’t tend to add to curb appeal, except for giving the impression of ultra-tight security. Of course, a steel door, just like any door, is only as strong as its frame. Nonetheless, it sends a message of security consciousness that is likely to deter any potential intruders. Steel doors can be painted easily, allowing you to give them a modicum of homeliness.
- Consider fibreglass as another option – These doors are usually considered to be a step up from PVCu doors, as their woodgrain effect is much more realistic. Both fibreglass and PVCu need a subframe of timber or steel. The hollow part of the door itself can be insulated, which is a big advantage for conserving heat energy, especially in the cold winter.
Don’t be afraid to discuss your needs in detail with your contractor. You should be able to achieve exactly what you want in terms of aesthetics and security with your home’s entry doors. Technological advances and wider availability of materials mean that tradesmen can tailor and custom-make doors specifically for your home and the purposes you want. Of course, this is the most expensive option of all, but you could ask around for tailored ideas and then look for corresponding existing doors already on the market. One thing is for sure when it comes to your home’s doors – they should give you and your family the security you deserve.