Upgrade Your Door Hardware: A Simple Yet Effective Home Security Boost
Why Your Front Door Screws Are Failing You
When it comes to home security, most people focus on alarm systems, cameras, and reinforced locks. However, one of the simplest yet most overlooked vulnerabilities is the screws in your exterior door hardware—especially the ones in your deadbolt latch plate.
More than 50% of home break-ins happen through a door, with nearly 35% of those occurring through the front door (insert high-value backlink here). If your door hardware is secured with standard short screws, you're making it far too easy for intruders to gain entry.
In our previous blog post, we covered home break-ins and how to mitigate risks. Now, let’s dive deeper into securing your front door and other exterior doors with a simple yet powerful upgrade.
The Problem: Weak Door Jambs & Short Screws
A standard front door jamb is typically about ¾-inch thick, and the screws that come with most latch plates are about the same length. This means:
The screws only secure into the thin door jamb.
Many door jambs are held together by small 18-gauge nails, making them even weaker.
A strong kick can easily split the jamb and break the screws free, allowing the door to open.
The Solution? Upgrading your screws to longer, more secure ones.
Small Screw is Standard. Longer Screw For Security
No Deadbolt Striker Plate = No Security
The Solution: Longer Screws & Reinforced Hardware
Step 1: Upgrade Your Deadbolt Latch Plate Screws
Look at the screws currently securing your deadbolt latch plate. They’re likely short, weak, and ineffective. Replacing them with 3-inch to 4-inch screws will:
✅ Secure the plate into the solid framing of your home (2x4 or 2x6 studs) instead of just the flimsy jamb.
✅ Make it significantly harder for an intruder to force the door open.
✅ Provide an instant security improvement with minimal effort.
⚠ Pro Tip: When tightening the new screws, be careful not to over-tighten them, as this can cause the jamb to shift. The goal is to secure the plate firmly into the house framing without distorting the door frame. This goes for ALL door screws.
For block homes: You’ll need a specialized screw like a Tapcon, rather than a standard wood screw, to anchor into masonry.
Step 2: Upgrade to a Stronger Deadbolt Striker Plate
Another essential upgrade is installing a larger, reinforced striker plate from Kwikset or similar brands. These plates:
🔹 Use more than just two screws, significantly strengthening the connection.
🔹 Distribute force more evenly across the door frame, reducing the chance of failure.
🔹 Provide a higher level of security without major modifications.
We recommend these two high-quality options:
Want to Shop Local? I am betting that our local Ace Hardware Store has them or can get them too. Reach out to them today!
Installation Tip: These plates are typically inset into the wood jamb, so a chisel may be needed for a proper fit. If you're looking for a professional-grade installation, At Hand Heroes is here to help!
Step 3: Don’t Forget the Hinge Side!
Strengthening the lock side of your door is crucial, but don’t neglect the hinge side. Upgrading the hinge screws to 3-inch screws ensures that both sides of the door are equally reinforced, making forced entry far more difficult.
Professional Door Security Upgrades in Peoria, AZ & Surrounding Areas
If you’re handy, you might be able to tackle these upgrades yourself. But for a seamless, professional installation that ensures everything is aligned and functions perfectly, give At Hand Heroes a call.
We specialize in home security enhancements and door reinforcement in:
📍 Peoria, AZ | Glendale | Surprise | Cave Creek | Scottsdale | Desert Ridge | Anthem | Goodyear | & surrounding areas
Whether you’re in a luxury home or a cozy starter home, we have the expertise to make your doors as secure as possible.
Ready to Upgrade Your Home Security?
✅ Contact us today for professional door reinforcement services!
