Using a door chain is a simple way to improve the security of your property and give you peace of mind when you answer the door to unexpected callers late at night. This inexpensive and easy home improvement is a worthwhile one for anyone, male or female, who wants to feel safer in their home. Security door chain kits can be purchased from most hardware stores, and do not cost a lot of money. Door chains work by limiting the door’s opening, making it hard for an intruder to force entry into your home.

Most homes already have chains fitted to their doors, but if you are replacing an external door you may need to install a new chain. The good news is that installing a new chain takes just a few minutes, and once the security chain is in place it does not need a lot of maintenance. If you choose a chain that comes pre-painted or has a plastic coating on it, then the chain should last many years. Be wary of the cheapest chain kits, however, as the metal they are made of can tarnish easily in damp or cold environments.

Tools Needed

You will need:

• Door chain kit
• Screws
• Pencil
• Hammer
• Awl
• Chisel
• Screwdriver

Time Required

You can complete this simple home improvement in half an hour or less.

Step By Step Instructions

1. Firstly, decide the height at which you would like the door chain to sit. Make sure that it is easy for everyone in your household to reach, including children who are old enough to be answering the door.
2. The security chain keep is usually placed on the lock rail, across the middle of the door where it is the strongest.
3. Place some masking tape at the level where you want the chain to be. Put the slotted plate against the side of the door, and make clear marks in the screw holes using your pencil.
4. Start some pilot holes using your awl, and then check that the holes line up correctly with the plate.
5. Complete the holes, remove the masking tape, and then screw the plate into position.
6. Once the plate is in place, it’s time to attach the chain to the door frame opposite the plate. If the frame is plain, you can simply screw the chain into place following the same process as you did for the plate. Use masking tape when starting the screw holes, to ensure a smooth and professional looking finish. On the other hand, if there is molding around the frame, it will take a little more effort. Mark the area around the frame with a pencil, and then chisel out a small indentation so that the plate holding the chain sits flush against the door. Take your time when doing this, and remember that if you fail to cut deeply enough, you can always remove more wood. If you cut too deep to start with, it is much harder to fill in a hole and achieve a satisfying finish.
7. Once you have the plate positioned satisfactorily, screw it securely into the frame.
8. Test the chain to make sure you are satisfied with its position and that it is screwed in place securely.
9. Open the door with the chain engaged. Ask a friend to wait outside and see if they can remove the chain from outside the house. If they cannot do this you have successfully fitted your security chain! 

Some Final Tips

Note that door chains are not a perfect security measure. A door chain offers an additional layer of privacy and protection when you answer the door, but it does not stop an intruder from breaking in to your property. It is possible to force open a door that is held shut with a chain. For optimal security, be sure to invest in a deadbolt lock, and take other precautions such as using a burglar alarm. Always lock the door properly when you leave the house (don’t simply shut it and expect the latch alone to keep it secure.

Conclusion

Choose a high-quality chain kit that comes with a fairly short but robust chain, so that the door opens only a few inches. Make a habit of putting the chain in place every time you lock the door so that you do not forget to use it.  If you have children, teach them to keep the door on the chain until they have seen who is calling, and explain that they should not let anyone into your home unless they are expecting visitors or the caller is someone who is a known friend of the family.

In addition to using a chain, consider installing a peephole so that you can screen callers before answering the door. Many modern peep holes have video cameras rather than simple fish-eye lenses so that you can see who is on the other side of the door without having to approach the peep hole yourself. These camera devices can offer even more peace of mind to the elderly and vulnerable people who are uncomfortable with the thought of answering the door to an unexpected caller.