Most people think of locks as the primary security measures on home entry doors, but the doors themselves can also offer security measures. How secure a home entry door is depends in part on what materials are used to make it. Heavier front doors tend to be less vulnerable to intruders because they are harder to break down, but there are a number of other factors that contribute to a door's security.

The Most Secure Home Entry Doors

The heaviest residential front entry doors are made of steel. These doors are constructed from steel panels over a wood or steel inner frame with foam insulation in the hollow space. Wood doors can also be heavy enough to deter intruders, but they must be solid wood. Engineered wood doors are much lighter than solid wood. Fiberglass, aluminum and vinyl are often used to make home entry doors, but their light weight makes them slightly more vulnerable to a break-in.

When glass is a part of residential entry doors, it can also pose a security problem. The most secure glass entry doors use double-strength glass and double panes, which make them harder to break. Glass with embedded wire is also an excellent deterrant. When shopping for glass patio doors, homeowners should look for secure three-point locking systems and/or use a security bar for sliding glass doors.

Homeowners in the Union City area or other parts of Northern California can get a free in-home estimate from Brothers Home Improvement Inc. Windows and Doors for new doors. This company also has locations in Southern California and Northern Nevada. Call 800 672-3777 to schedule an appointment.