Deadbolt locks do a good job of securing a door but a well placed kick can force the lock through the door frame and allow entry into the home. To strengthen the strike plate on the lock, replace the existing screws with 3” long screws to attach into the wall stud.
To reinforce the door frame even more, remove the door facing and attach a steel building plate to the door casing and wall stud. Here’s how:
- Remove the interior door facing molding from the latch side of the door frame by prying it off to expose the area where the door jamb and wall meet. Be careful not to damage the molding so it can be reused.
- Chisel out a 1/8” deep mortise in the door casing and wall so the steel plate will be flush with both the wall and casing.
- Drill pilot holes into the door casing and stud to attach the steel plate.
- Use 1½” long screws to secure the steel plate to the door jamb and 3” screws to attach the plate to the wall stud for extra support.
- Nail the interior door facing trim molding back in place.
Watch this video to find out more.
Further Information
- Burglarproof Locks (article)
- How to Make Your Home Secure from Burglary and Break-In (article)
Better yet install an ingenious new device called the Sure-Strike strike plate. Not only does it help resist kick-in burglaries but it’s the only strike plate in the world that self-adjusts to misaligned or “hard-to-turn” deadbolts due to shifting doors or foundation issues. Plus, it helps prevent drafting on doors.
What is that piece of metal being added called exactly?
Thanks!
Look at simpson ties and plates at HD. ALSO, if you are inside at night, 2 bar latches nailed to the. Studs on the left and right of door…..and then drop a 2×4 in there. Do one low and one high…and nobody is coming in….the fireman will with axes….:)and get a BOX strike plate and use 3 1/2 screws
Look at simpson ties and plates at HD. ALSO, if you are inside at night, 2 bar latches nailed to the. Studs on the left and right of door…..and then drop a 2×4 in there. Do one low and one high…and nobody is coming in….the fireman will with axes….:)and get a BOX strike plate and use 3 1/2 screws !
I have the best KWIK SET locks. I noticed at the back door, of my country home, recently a large space has developed, below the DEADBOLT. The space is between the wood under the deadbolt and the door itself. I am thinking someone is going to cut the locked dead bolt off with a hacksaw!