When it comes to securing your property, your choice of doors is important. Solid wood doors, particularly custom options, are a popular choice for their timeless aesthetic, strength, and durability. However, their security largely depends on the hardware installed. High-quality hardware is essential for ensuring your wood doors provide the best protection.
In this guide, our door specialists at Master Doors focus on the essential types of security hardware for solid wood doors and offer you tips on choosing the right solutions for your needs.
Why Door Hardware Matters for Home Security
The strength of a solid wood door can be compromised by inadequate or poorly selected hardware. Premium hardware not only improves security but also enhances the door’s durability and daily function. Whether it’s your front entryway or a back office door, choosing the right setup can help prevent break-ins. When evaluating door hardware for security, consider:
- The material and strength of the components
- Compatibility with wood doors
- The grade and security rating of locks and bolts
- Installation quality and fit
Types of Door Hardware for Extra Security
Solid wood doors benefit from various types of security hardware. Below are the key options to consider:
High-Security Locks for Doors
High-security locks are designed to resist picking, drilling, and bumping. For solid wood doors, mortise locks and deadbolts are particularly effective due to their strength and deep-set design. Look for locks with hardened steel inserts, anti-drill plates, and patented keyways that prevent unauthorized duplication. Choosing locks that provide certified high-security ratings will help ensure you’re getting the best protection.
Metal Security Door Locks for Enhanced Protection
These locks can be installed on wood doors and they offer heavy-duty protection. Metal security locks are made from hardened steel or brass and are built to withstand forced entry. They are more resistant to prying and impact compared to standard cylindrical locks. Look for Grade 1 or ANSI-certified options for commercial-level protection at home.
Door Security Bars for Added Defense
A door security bar reinforces your wood door against forced entry by bracing it from the inside. These are ideal for residential back doors, office interiors, or any vulnerable entry point. Security bars are available in adjustable models or permanent installations. Floor-mounted options offer the highest level of defense for outward-opening wood doors.
Security Door Lock Sets: Complete Protection
A complete security door lock set includes several components designed to work together, such as a deadbolt, latch, handle, strike plate, and cylinder. They are useful when upgrading your door’s hardware all at once. For wood doors, ensure the lock set includes reinforced strike plates and long screws for deep anchoring into the frame.
Flush Bolt Hardware: Strengthening French Doors & More
Flush bolts are an often-overlooked security solution that enhances the security of double wood doors, including French doors. Installed in the inactive leaf of the door, flush bolts secure it to the top and bottom of the frame, preventing movement. They are ideal for French doors, patio entries, and double doors. When installed correctly, it keeps both leaves aligned and locked, which makes it more resistant to forced entry and prevents sagging.
Exterior vs. Interior Door Hardware Security: What You Need to Know
When choosing door hardware, it’s important to distinguish between exterior and interior door security.
Exterior door hardware requires more robust solutions. Deadbolts, strike reinforcements, and heavy-duty hinges are essential. Wood entry doors exposed to the elements should also feature corrosion-resistant finishes and weather-tight seals to ensure long-term performance.
On the other hand, interior door hardware typically focuses on privacy and controlled access. Offices, storage rooms, and basements may benefit from cylindrical locks or smart locks, allowing for user-specific access.
Choosing the Right Security Door Hardware for Your Needs
Here’s what to consider when selecting hardware:
- Door Material: Wood doors expand and contract with the seasons, so hardware should be designed to accommodate this movement and resist warping.
- Security Grade: Choose hardware rated by ANSI or BHMA.
- Installation Fit: Mortise locks require pocket installation, while cylindrical locks can be drilled into standard door preps.
- Usage Environment: For areas with high humidity or coastal conditions, corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel are ideal.
- Aesthetic Compatibility: Choose hardware that complements the style of your wood door without sacrificing security.
Learn More About Our Custom Wood Door Hardware at Master Doors!
At Master Doors, we specialize in creating custom, solid wood doors that combine beauty and security. We offer a range of door hardware options designed for wood doors, including high-security lock sets, flush bolts, and security bars. Our products are carefully selected for their quality, durability, and ability to enhance your door’s performance.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you secure your custom wood doors while maintaining their elegance and craftsmanship.
