How To Secure French Doors That Open Out
French doors are a perfect example of sophistication and elegance. They are known to let ample amounts of light into any room because they are made of glass. However, French doors usually open outwards, which can sometimes be a threat to security.
Though French doors are an attractive addition to your home, they aren’t always the safest option to go with when considering the security of your family. Just as you find French doors appealing and pleasing, the burglars find them the same.
Keep reading this article to find out the most preferred options for securing French doors that open outwards.
1. Opt For Impact Resistance Glass
If you are looking to purchase French doors for your home, always opt for impact-resistance glasses, as they are hard to break. This type of glass can withstand a tremendous amount of force without breaking, which is usually required in hurricane-prone areas as well as safety from burglars.
Ensure that your impact resistance glass is well fitted on your French door to avoid breakage. Do not confuse impact-resistant glasses with tempered glasses. Tempered glasses are usually stronger than ordinary glass, but they can be easily broken.
2. Install Security Hinges
Security hinges are necessary for your French door to be fitted securely. Without securing the hinges, it won’t matter how strong your doors and locks are. Ensure that these security hinges are fitted with screws that are at least three inches long.
If your hinges are compromised, either modify the existing hinges or purchase new ones. The hinges that are not properly secured to the frame should be removed. However, removing them will be far more difficult if security hinges are fitted.
3. Install a Door Barricade
Door barricades are extremely durable and can withstand massive force. A good-quality barricade is known to prevent forced entries and secure your outward-opening French door.
For installing a door barricade, your French door should have a wide frame to mount the plate for the barricade. Most door barricades are suitable for inward opening doors, so ensure that you select the right door barricade model suitable for your outward opening French door.
4. Insert Outswing Door Security
Consider inserting a horizontal outswing door security bar for your French door. With various models available, ensure that you choose a durable model that will withstand massive force, making it extremely hard to open.
Security bars are really popular for French doors. However, the majority of them are designed specifically for doors that open inwards. You have to carefully opt for the security bars that are designed specifically for outward opening French doors.
5. Invest In High-Quality Door Lock
A high-quality door lock is necessary for securing your French doors. Some good options for French doors are deadbolt locks, mortise locks, and three-point/multi-point locks. The rest of the locks are not very suitable for French door security.
Mortise locks are a type of deadbolt lock but much stronger than the deadbolt alone. Their lock mechanism is protected by metal housing, making them a good choice for your French door. In comparison, a three-point locking system or multi-point locks are also perfect for a French door's security purpose, as they comprise multiple metal rods.
Why Is It Hard to Secure French Doors?
French doors are not as secure as other front doors because of their elegant design. Both single as well as double French doors are less sturdy and cannot withstand violent impact as they do not lock into a solid and secure frame. This makes the French doors less safe and more prone to break-ins.
The hinge between the double French doors is extremely fragile, just like the glass area on the French door. Burglars usually break the glass panel to unlock the door. The panel in the middle of the double French doors is vulnerable and can be opened easily, so it is necessary to secure it to avoid any mishaps.
Conclusion
We understand that French doors are graceful and elegant for your home. But investing in their security is also a necessary factor to consider to keep you and your family safe from burglars, hurricanes, and other mishaps.
Whether you are looking for internal doors or external doors for your home, Emerald Doors is a one-stop solution for all your door needs.
Securing Outward Opening French Doors FAQs
Should French Doors Open Inwards Or Outwards?
French doors can open both inwards and outwards, and it's all a matter of your preference. If you wish to make the most of your internal space, opt for French doors that open outward. However, if you wish to enhance your outer space, go for French doors that open inward.
Why Are French Doors Easy To Break Into?
French doors get their elegance and beauty from glass panels. Glass can be easy to break because of its fragile nature. Moreover, if the French doors are not fitted and installed properly, they can be really easy to break into.
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