Keeping your home secure is a top priority, and your front door is the first line of defence. With evolving technology and increasingly sophisticated burglary methods, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. This article outlines key front door security tips specifically tailored for UK homes in 2025.

How can I make my front door more secure?

Boosting front door security involves a multi-layered approach.

A wide-angle peephole or a digital doorbell allows you to see who’s there without opening the door. Consider adding a door chain or limiter for added safety. Deterrent measures like visible security cameras, motion-activated lighting, and well-maintained landscaping around the entrance can also make a difference.

To completely burglar-proof a front door, start by ensuring you have a solid core door, ideally made of engineered wood or composite material, and a robust frame. Upgrade your hardware with a high-security deadbolt (BS3621 standard), reinforced strike plates and security hinges.

Finally, integrate smart home technology, such as a smart lock with remote locking and activity logs, for enhanced control and monitoring. We’ll go into more detail about each element in this article.

Get official advice from the Metropolitan Police, the Master Locksmiths Association and Secured by Design (the official police security initiative) when choosing new exterior doors.

What is the best security for a front door?

It all starts with the door itself. Invest in a high quality design and remember: a solid core door (preferably made of engineered wood or composite materials) is significantly more resistant to forced entry than a hollow core door. Consider upgrading if your current door is lacking. Look for doors that meet British Standards (BS) for security, such as PAS 24 or Secured by Design. These certifications indicate rigorous testing against common burglary techniques.  

How do I secure my front door from being kicked in?

Preventing your front door from being kicked in requires a two-pronged approach: strengthening the door itself and reinforcing the frame.

A solid core door or composite door is more resistant to kicks but your door frame is equally crucial; reinforce it by using long screws that penetrate deep into the wall studs, and consider adding metal plates to the frame where the lock and strike plate are installed.

A high-quality deadbolt lock, especially one that meets BS3621 standards, is essential, and ensure the strike plate is securely attached to the reinforced frame with long screws. Adding a multi-point locking system further enhances security by securing the door at multiple points along the frame.

Finally, consider installing a door jamb reinforcement kit, which adds extra support to the frame and helps distribute the force of a kick.

What front door locks do police recommend?

Police often recommend high-security locks that meet British Standards (BS) for security, specifically BS3621. This standard signifies that the lock has been tested against common burglary methods like drilling, picking, and forcing.

For mortise locks, a five-lever deadlock conforming to BS3621 is highly recommended. They also advise using a good quality deadbolt lock, as this provides an additional layer of security.

When choosing a lock, look for features like hardened steel components and anti-pick mechanisms. It’s crucial that any lock, especially a BS3621 compliant one, is fitted correctly by a qualified locksmith to ensure its effectiveness. Beyond specific lock types, police emphasise the importance of a multi-point locking system for maximum security, where the door is secured at multiple points along the frame.

Learn more about the different types of door locks in our easy ready guide. Plus find out how to change uPVC door locks and see how much a locksmith could cost in the UK right now.

What is the most secure type of front door?

While solid wood doors offer a classic look, engineered wood or composite doors often provide superior security due to their construction. Engineered hardwood front doors consist of multiple layers of wood bonded together, making them stronger and more resistant to warping or cracking than solid wood.

Modern composite doors (made from a combination of materials such as fibreglass, uPVC and a solid core) offer excellent security, weather resistance, and insulation. Steel-look aluminium doors also offer excellent security due to their inherent strength and resistance to forced entry, often enhanced by multi-point locking systems and robust frame construction.

Ultimately, the most secure door material is one that’s combined with a robust frame and high-quality hardware.

How can we deter burglars cheaply?

Join a neighbourhood watch scheme. Participating in a free Neighbourhood Watch programme can help to increase vigilance and deter crime in your area. It’s also a great way to make friends and get to know familiar faces where you live. Feeling nervous about meeting new people? Life coach Mel Robbins has some great advice.

Communicate with people in your local area either in person or via social media. Check to see if there are any Facebook Groups or local organisations dedicated to sharing security tips and information with neighbours to create a safer community.

If not, set one up that feels inclusive and friendly so that as many people as possible want to join. However, avoid publicly announcing when you’re going away on holiday, as this can make your home a target.

Carve out time to keep on top of things to avoid unexpected costs long term. Review your home insurance to make sure your policy covers the value of your possessions and any potential damage from a break-in. And don’t forget to inspect your door and hardware for any signs of damage or wear on a regular basis.

Lastly, ensure security systems and alarms are up-to-date with the latest software and firmware. Shop around for deals on sites such as Money Supermarket and consult professional advice before upgrading, signing up to a monthly fee or switching to something different.

How can I make my front door more private?

Enhancing front door privacy involves a combination of physical barriers and visual deterrents.

Obscure or frosted glass panels can allow light in while preventing people from seeing inside. Add window film to existing glass for an easy and affordable privacy solution. Net curtains, blinds, or drapes hung close to the door can also effectively block views.

For a more permanent solution, replace clear glass with textured or stained glass. Outside, strategically placed shrubs or a small decorative fence can create a physical barrier and add an extra layer of privacy. Finally, ensure your outdoor lighting is sufficient so you can keep an eye on things outside.

What is the biggest deterrent to burglars?

According to UK police the biggest deterrent to burglars is often visible security measures. While a comprehensive security setup is ideal, highly visible deterrents can be particularly effective. This includes things like clearly visible burglar alarms, security cameras (even dummy cameras can have a deterrent effect), and motion-activated security lighting.

Well-maintained and trimmed hedges and bushes around windows and doors also remove potential hiding spots for burglars. Install motion-activated lights around your front door to illuminate the area and deter intruders. You could even opt for a gravel driveway as the sound of footsteps on gravel can alert you to someone approaching your property.

Essentially, anything that makes a burglar think they are likely to be seen, heard, or caught significantly reduces the likelihood of them targeting a property. A house that appears occupied and well-protected is far less appealing than one that seems vulnerable and easy to access.

Smart locks and advanced security features

Home security at your fingertips? It’s possible if you’re tech savvy. Smart home security integrates various connected devices (cameras, sensors and alarms) into one computer system that can be remotely monitored and controlled (often through a smartphone app) to enhance home safety and deter intruders. Here are a few things it can help with:

Keyless entry
Smart locks offer convenience and enhanced security. Choose a model with strong encryption and features like remote locking, activity logs, and tamper alerts.

Biometric access
Fingerprint scanners offer an extra layer of security, making it virtually impossible for intruders to gain access with stolen keys.  

Integrated security systems
Link your smart lock to your home security system for seamless monitoring and control. This allows you to receive notifications and even grant temporary access remotely.  

Voice assistants
Integrate your security system with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant for convenient control and monitoring.

Smart lighting
Use smart lighting to simulate occupancy while you’re away, making it appear as though someone is home.  

Get an insight into the benefits of smart home security technology in our more detailed article.

Best secure door hardware

High-Security Deadbolt
A five-lever mortise deadlock conforming to BS3621 is a must-have. Ensure it’s properly fitted by a qualified locksmith.

Reinforced Door Frame
A strong door is useless if the frame is weak. Reinforce the frame with metal plates and long screws that penetrate deep into the wall.  

Security Hinges
Use security hinges that are difficult to remove, even if the hinge pins are knocked out.

Wide-Angle Peephole
Install a peephole with a wide field of view to clearly see who is at your door before opening it. Consider a digital peephole that records footage.

Door Chain/Limiter
While not a primary security measure, a chain or limiter allows you to partially open the door to speak to visitors without fully opening your door.

Unexpected tips and tricks

Beyond the obvious upgrades, some surprisingly cheap and effective front door security measures can significantly deter burglars.

A simple “Beware of Dog” sign, even if you don’t have a dog, can make potential intruders think twice. Placing a small, inexpensive wireless doorbell chime inside a metal bowl near the door can amplify the sound, making it seem like someone is always home and attentive.

Consider applying reflective window film to the lower portion of your front door’s glass panels; this makes it difficult for burglars to see inside while still allowing light in.

Finally, something as simple as regularly varying your lighting schedule, even when you’re home, can create the illusion of occupancy and make your home less of a predictable target.

Upgrade your entrance with a secure front door

By implementing these front door security tips and investing in the most secure front door, UK homeowners in 2025 can significantly improve the safety and security of their homes and protect themselves from the threat of burglary. And remember, a proactive approach to security is always the best defence. Ready to enhance home security and upgrade your front door? Browse our secure front doors online or get in touch with friendly team for advice.