Exterior security doors protect your home and family from assault and theft. They are distinguished by high strength, which makes them resistant to most tools used by burglars. When choosing a particular model, pay attention not only to the construction of the door itself, but also to the frame and hardware.
Different classes confirm the burglary resistant properties of doors. According to ENV 1627 and subsequent amendments we can distinguish six security classes. Here the specialists take into account static load resistance, dynamic load resistance as well as resistance to manual attack. The machines used for testing perform simulations of various burglary attempts.
Class 1 doors resist a burglar who uses only physical force to try to open or balance them. They can therefore be rejected outright. They are not suitable for privacy properties. Class 6, on the other hand, is reserved for high-risk public and military buildings. Homeowners most often choose doors belonging to class 3. When buying a specific door, it is worth considering the value of the building and what you store in it, as well as its location. We have prepared a brief summary for you.
A model belonging to Class 2 is resistant to attack by a thief using simple tools such as screwdrivers and pliers. Class 3 is the most common level of security for exterior entry doors. It can withstand not only manual attack, screwdrivers and pliers, but also crowbars, drifters, and hammers designed to defeat locking devices. Class 4 doors are able to withstand more advanced tools. They show great resistance to club hammers, axes, chisels and drills. So they will work well in single-family homes and stores where there is a higher risk of burglary
Finally, it is worth mentioning Class 5 – such doors are installed in case of attacks with drills, metal saws, saber saws and angle grinders. In fact, not all houses require the same level of protection. It is worth keeping this in mind when looking for the right door.
This is a question that many homeowners ask. There is no doubt that steel is stronger than aluminum. If you place a lot of emphasis on strength, choose a steel entry door. However, you need to keep in mind that they don’t always match the aesthetics of the property. They also don’t show as much corrosion resistance as aluminum models. If you opt for aluminum doors, protect them with stainless steel mesh. Remember to install a 3-point lock
Manufacturers of steel doors typically use one of two methods to protect them from rust. Most often they do hot dip galvanizing of the door and then powder coating. This is an old practice that has its advantages and disadvantages. While said door will likely never rust, powder coating does not guarantee years of durability. This is because the products are not 100 percent compatible due to the silicon content in the galvanizing. The location of the door plays a big role here.
Some manufacturers sand the door, prime with zinc, and then powder coat. This process provides a smoother finish and is growing in popularity. Regardless of which door you choose, be sure to take care of it.
Not all companies offer high quality security doors, and you need to keep this in mind when shopping. Sometimes manufacturers use substandard materials. Stay away from such brands. Conduct a thorough market research beforehand to buy the right door. Remember to check the certification of the manufacturer or supplier before making a final decision. Certified security doors have passed various quality tests. Thus, they can serve you for many years.
Remember to install a mortise lock and not a surface mounted lock. This means that its body is located in the door frame or lock box. A good quality burglar-proof door should not have a surface-mounted lock that can be easily knocked out with a hammer.
