If you're in the market for a new front door, especially if your goal is greater security, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to achieve doors that actually keep out the bad guys. The important thing to remember is that absolutely impenetrable doors are impossible. What you want is a door that offers enough security that potential burglars will decide that it's not worth it.

Choose a Door without Windows

Doors that don't have windows are often more secure than those that do. The reason for this is that it's easy for burglars to just smash the window and reach through to unlock the door. While this won't go without detection if you're home or if you have a security system, it may work if you aren't home and a thief is just looking for a smash and grab.

You're better off making it so that this isn't an enticing option in the first place by having no window in your front door. You can always install windows near the door to allow light in but far enough away so that the smash option doesn't work.

Install Anti-Jack Locks

You'll want a door with a lock that can't just be bent with a car jack. The best approach is to get one that has reinforced steel to make sure that this doesn't happen. It helps to ask a professional locksmith about what lock is going to be best for dissuading thieves from trying to get into your particular door and house type.

Pick Steel Door Frames

You don't want to discount the approach many burglars use to get through a door, which is simply just to kick it in. The frame should be made of steel or at least a strong wood such as oak. If it's only made of pine or another weaker wood, it won't matter how strong your door lock is since one kick will splinter the frame and allow someone access.

You're also going to want a door jamb that's equally strong. You'll ideally want a deep box strike plate in addition to the doorjamb. Adding galvanized steel will also help make it more difficult for someone to just kick through.

Considering most burglars try to enter through the front door first, having a solid one with a solid lock is important as a first line of defense. If there's any weak link in the door, then someone could find their way in easily. Speak with a representative from a service like Strathcona Security Locksmiths for further tips.