5 Ways Exterior Doors Make Your Home Vulnerable to Intruders

Our home is a place of safety, where we are protected from the potential dangers of the outside world. This being compromised by an intruder can not only be dangerous but also leave you traumatised. In 2023/2024, an average of 498 burglaries were reported daily, which shows the extent of the problem.

But what most people aren’t aware of is the vulnerability of their front and back doors. It’s crucial that the exterior doors of your property are in good working order, as this is the most common route intruders take when entering a home.

To keep you informed, Property Expert Joshua Houston has revealed five ways that your exterior doors make you vulnerable to intruders.

1: Weak door frames

Door frames provide a steady structure for your door to sit in. Thin or cheap frames are often weaker, which means they can be easily broken with force. This is a common method for intruders if no one is home. Fortunately, there are ways in which you can strengthen these areas, such as installing steel reinforcement plates around the lock and hinge. Ultimately, this will make it harder for people to kick or barge their way through your front door. It also doesn’t break the bank, with plates starting from as little as £5. 

2: Sliding glass doors

Sliding doors are common exterior doors for the back of properties. Thieves will target this area as it’s out of sight from the public. Intruders can simply pick these doors up off their tracks without even having to use tools. To prevent this, you can install a heavy-duty floor latch, which attaches the bottom of the door to the floor. These can be picked up for around £15, so they’re a very affordable way to prevent break-ins. 

3: Old or worn-out locks

Old or worn-out locks are easier to pick or break, but over time, their security mechanisms can become compromised, allowing for easy entry. To avoid this, you should replace your lock if it appears worn out. It’s also recommended that your locks be changed every seven years to ensure they are up to standard. The average cost of a new lock (plus installation) can be between £100 and £150. Alternatively, you can add a chain lock for added security. So, even if your lock breaks, it will add more security precautions and only cost between £5 and £15.

4: Hidden spare keys

It’s common for people to hide spare keys outside of their home in case their main set of keys are lost or forgotten. However, what some don’t take into account is that potential intruders are aware of this, so they will know about obvious places, such as under a mat or plant pot. Instead, consider giving a spare key to family, friends or a trusted neighbour. This gives you a location to retrieve them when needed, adding extra security. If this is not an option, you could hide your keys in more obscure places where a burglar wouldn’t think or know to look. 

5: Deteriorated wood

If your wooden front door begins to rot, then this will compromise its structural integrity, making it easier for intruders to break through. It’s caused by insect infestation and moisture absorption, which will require you to purchase a new door. The average cost of a new door (plus installation) is between £400 and £1,300.

Joshua Houston, Property Expert at WhatCost:

‘’We all want to feel safe in our own homes, so it’s important that you are aware of the five ways your exterior doors can make you vulnerable.

Inspecting your doors and taking this advice into account could be the difference between you getting burgled or not. It’s also massive for your own personal safety, as if someone gains access to your property, who knows what they might do.’’