When planning a home renovation, most homeowners focus on aesthetics—new paint, modern lighting, upgraded kitchens, or elegant flooring. But amidst all this excitement, one crucial aspect is often overlooked: door security. While doors are functional and architectural features of any home, they also serve as the first line of defense against intruders.
Whether you’re redesigning your interiors or doing a full structural upgrade, rethinking the security of your doors should be part of your renovation checklist. A beautifully renovated home isn’t complete unless it’s safe, and that begins at the front door.
In this blog, we’ll explore why door security matters during a renovation, how to assess your current doors, and what upgrades can protect your investment and loved ones.
1. Why Door Security Should Be a Renovation Priority
Home renovations offer the perfect opportunity to assess and improve parts of your property that have been neglected over time. That includes structural elements, insulation, plumbing and yes, doors.
Here’s why you shouldn’t skip door security:
- Increased visibility: Construction work draws attention to your home. Opportunistic burglars might see it as a target.
- Outdated doors = weak security: Old wooden doors or damaged locks are easily bypassed.
- Asset protection: Renovations typically increase the value of your property and thieves know it.
- Insurance requirements: Upgraded security features may reduce premiums or fulfill insurer mandates.
2. Assessing Your Existing Doors and Frames
Start by examining all entry points, not just the front door. That includes:
- Back doors
- Side entrances
- Patio or garden doors
- Garage internal access doors
Look out for:
- Weak or hollow core doors
- Rusted or misaligned hinges
- Frames with signs of rot or damage
- Gaps that could be easily pried open
- Old locks without modern anti-theft features
Any door that doesn’t fit tightly into its frame or feels lightweight when knocked on could be a potential security risk.
3. Upgrade to Solid Core or Composite Doors
Modern door options combine aesthetics with durability and safety. If your renovation includes replacing the front door or external doors, invest in:
Solid Timber Doors
Beautiful and traditional, but must be treated and maintained to resist warping.
Composite Doors
Made from a blend of materials wood, PVC, insulating foam, and glass-reinforced plastic, these doors are strong, energy-efficient, and secure.
Steel Doors
Extremely durable and ideal for high-security needs. These can be styled to match a variety of home designs.
Pro Tip: Choose doors with a minimum thickness of 44mm and solid core construction for optimal security.
4. Install Certified High-Security Locks
Locks are often the weakest link in door security. During renovation, it’s essential to upgrade to modern, tamper-resistant locks.
Look for:
- BS3621-certified locks: British standard for thief-resistant locks
- Multi-point locking systems: Engages the door frame at multiple points
- Anti-snap euro cylinders: Resists lock snapping—a common burglary method
- Smart locks: Allow remote control and monitoring, useful if builders or contractors need access
Ensure locks are professionally installed and aligned properly to avoid jamming or forced entry.
5. Don’t Forget About Door Frames and Hinges
A strong door is only effective if it’s supported by a strong frame. During renovation, inspect and, if necessary, replace:
- Door frames with steel-reinforced options
- Hinges with non-removable pins (especially on outward-opening doors)
- Strike plates, replacing standard ones with reinforced metal versions
- Hinge bolts or dog bolts to prevent doors from being forced off hinges
Securing these often-overlooked components significantly improves resistance to forced entry.
6. Add Door Accessories That Deter Intruders
Some simple accessories can act as effective deterrents and enhance peace of mind:
- Door viewers (peepholes) to safely check who’s outside
- Security chains or restrictors for partial opening
- Motion sensor lighting above doorways
- Visible alarm stickers or smart doorbell cameras
- Kick plates to reinforce the lower part of the door
These additions not only strengthen security but also make intruders think twice before attempting entry.
7. Glass Panel Doors: Beauty with Protection
Glass panel doors look stunning but can pose a significant risk. If your design includes glass, opt for:
- Laminated or toughened safety glass
- Double or triple-glazed units with internal reinforcements
- Decorative grills or security bars for added protection
Never install standard single-pane glass on any door facing the street or garden.
8. Smart Door Security for Modern Homes
Renovations often include smart home upgrades. Consider integrating smart door features like:
- Smart locks that use PIN codes, mobile apps, or fingerprint access
- Video doorbells with two-way communication and live video
- Door sensors that trigger alarms if forced open
These technologies offer convenience and real-time monitoring, especially when you’re away from home.
9. Secure Secondary Entry Points
Burglars often bypass the main entrance in favour of:
- Side doors
- Garage doors
- French or patio doors
- Conservatory entrances
During renovation, apply the same level of scrutiny and security upgrades to all external doors. Consider using internal door locks for doors between the house and attached garages.
10. Professional Installation Matters
A door is only as secure as its installation. Improper fitting can leave gaps or misalignments that make doors easier to force open.
Hire a certified door installer who can ensure:
- Flush alignment with the frame
- Correct integration of locks and hardware
- Reinforced fittings into the surrounding wall
- Weatherproof sealing to prevent long-term degradation
Ask for installation warranties and check that all work complies with UK building and security regulations.
Conclusion: Renovate with Security in Mind
Upgrading your kitchen or repainting your walls may boost your home’s value and appeal, but it’s the quality of your doors and locks that truly protect what’s inside.
As you renovate your home, make door security a non-negotiable part of your plan. A modern, secure door doesn’t just keep intruders out, it provides peace of mind, improves energy efficiency, and can even reduce your insurance premiums.
So next time you’re drawing up plans for a home makeover, remember: a safe home is a beautiful home.