High security exterior doors are crucial for protecting your building from intruders and providing peace of mind. But what features should you look for when choosing a high security exterior door?
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the key elements that make a door truly secure and help you make an informed decision when upgrading your buildingās defences.
When it comes to security doors, the material used in their construction plays a vital role in determining their overall strength and durability. Steel security doors offer the highest level of protection against forced entry. They’re incredibly strong, durable, and resistant to impact, making them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial buildings.
Steel doors are also fire-rated, providing additional safety benefits that can be crucial in emergency situations. While wooden doors can be reinforced for security, they don’t offer the same level of protection as steel security doors. The sturdiness of steel makes it significantly more difficult for intruders to breach, giving you peace of mind.
The door frame is just as crucial as the door itself, if not more so. A high security door should have a steel door frame that’s securely anchored to the building structure. This prevents attackers from simply prying the entire door unit out of the wall – a tactic that can make even the strongest door ineffective.
When considering a security door, pay close attention to how the frame is constructed and installed. Look for frames with multiple fixing points and reinforced corners. Some advanced security doors feature a one-piece frame design that provides superior strength and resistance to forced entry attempts.
The locking system is the heart of any security door, and multi-point locking systems are essential for high security doors. These systems engage multiple locking points around the door’s perimeter when closed, making it extremely difficult to force open.
Look for doors with at least a 3-point locking system, though 5-point systems offer even greater security. These advanced locking mechanisms distribute the force of any attack across multiple points, significantly increasing the door’s resistance to break-ins.
Some high-security doors feature automatic locking systems that engage as soon as the door is closed, ensuring that the door is always secure even if you forget to manually lock it.
When it comes to the locks themselves, high security doors should feature anti-drill, anti-pick, and anti-bump cylinders. These advanced locking mechanisms resist common burglary techniques, providing an extra layer of protection against intruders.
Some high-end security doors also offer electronic locking options, including keypad entry, biometric scanners, or smartphone-controlled access, which can provide additional convenience and control over who can enter your building.
High security doors often include additional features that strengthen their resistance to forced entry:
When choosing a high security door, look for products that meet PAS24 standards and are Secured by Design approved. These certifications ensure the door has undergone rigorous testing and meets strict security criteria. PAS24 is a British Standard that tests the door’s resistance to common burglary methods, while Secured by Design is a police initiative that promotes the use of security products that meet specific standards.
Doors with these certifications have been independently tested and verified to provide a high level of security. Some manufacturers may also have their own testing standards or certifications, so be sure to ask about any additional security ratings or approvals the door may have.
Many steel door manufacturers, like Bradbury Group, offer bespoke security doors, allowing you to choose from a range of styles, finishes, and additional features. This ensures you can find a door that not only provides excellent security but also complements your buildingās aesthetics. From traditional designs to modern, sleek looks, there’s a security door to suit every architectural style.
You can often customise elements such as the colour and hardware finishes. Some manufacturers also offer the option to match your security door to existing windows or other doors on your building, ensuring a cohesive look while maintaining high security standards.
By choosing a door with the right materials, locking systems, and security features, you can significantly enhance your security and deter potential intruders.
For the ultimate in high security exterior doors, consider Bradbury Group’s range of steel security doors. Our doors are manufactured in the UK to the highest standards, meeting PAS24 requirements. With a variety of styles and customisation options available, we can provide the perfect security solution for your needs.
Contact Bradbury Group today to discuss your security door requirements. Our knowledgeable team can provide detailed information about our product range and help you choose the right door for your specific needs.
