How to Reinforce French Doors Against Forced Entry: A No-Nonsense Guide
Let’s talk about French doors—gorgeous, right? They flood your home with light and add a touch of elegance. But here’s the kicker: they’re basically a neon sign saying, “Hey burglars, come check out my weak spots!” If you’re in Los Angeles (or anywhere, really), reinforcing those doors isn’t just smart—it’s non-negotiable. Lucky for you, we’ve been tackling this exact issue for years at ALL OVER Locksmith, and we’re spilling all the secrets today.
Why French Doors Are a Burglar’s Best Friend (And How to Ruin Their Day)
French doors look stunning, but their design has more vulnerabilities than a Wi-Fi network without a password. The glass panels? Easy to smash. The center rail? Often flimsy. And let’s not even start on outdated locks. But don’t panic—yet. With a few strategic upgrades, you can turn those doors into Fort Knox Lite™.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to replace the entire door. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Assess the Weak Points (Because Burglars Definitely Will)
First, let’s play detective. Walk up to your French doors and ask yourself:
- Are the locks basic or high-security? If they’re older than your favorite pair of jeans, it’s time for an upgrade.
- Is the glass tempered or laminated? Regular glass shatters faster than your resolve to diet after seeing a donut.
- How sturdy is the frame? A weak frame is like locking a screen door on a submarine—pointless.
Pro tip: If you’re in Encino, Calabasas, or Thousand Oaks and need a pro to assess your setup, ALL OVER Locksmith offers commercial locksmith services and residential lockout solutions. We’ll spot vulnerabilities you might miss.
Step 2: Reinforce the Hardware (No, Duct Tape Doesn’t Count)
Upgrade to High-Security Deadbolts
Basic locks are about as effective as a chocolate teapot. Swap them out for Mul-T-Lock deadbolts or similar high-security deadbolts. These bad boys feature anti-pick, anti-drill, and anti-bump tech. Bonus: They pair perfectly with smart locks for added convenience.
Install a Door Defender or Security Bar
Think of this as a “burglar pause button.” A heavy-duty security bar wedged between the door handles adds brute-force resistance. For a sleeker look, opt for a door defender—a metal plate that reinforces the strike plate area.
Replace the Strike Plate
That dinky little strike plate your builder installed? Yeah, it’s basically decorative. Upgrade to a heavy-duty, 3-inch steel version anchored with 4-inch screws. FYI, this is a quick fix even for DIYers.
Step 3: Fortify the Glass (Because Smash-and-Grabs Aren’t Just for Jewelry Stores)
Apply Security Film
This transparent adhesive layer holds glass together even when shattered. It’s like giving your doors a pair of Spanx—subtle but game-changing. Pair it with laminated glass for maximum resistance.
Add Window Bars or Grilles
Not the most stylish, but hey, neither is a burglar rifling through your stuff. Decorative grilles can deter break-ins without ruining your home’s aesthetic.
Step 4: Upgrade to Smart Tech (Because 2024 Isn’t the Time for Basic)
Smart Locks + Electronic Keypads
Why fumble with keys when you can tap a code or use your phone? Smart locks let you monitor access remotely, and electronic keypads are perfect for Airbnb hosts or forgetful teens.
Access Control Systems
For businesses in Northridge or Van Nuys, access control systems let you restrict entry to authorized personnel only. Pair them with exit devices and panic bars for seamless security.
Step 5: Don’t Forget the Frame (It’s the Foundation, After All)
A reinforced door is useless if the frame’s made of balsa wood. Here’s how to fix it:
- Replace short screws with 4-inch ones in hinges and strike plates.
- Add a door wrap kit to strengthen weak spots around the frame.
- Install a threshold bar to prevent jimmying.
When to Call the Pros (Spoiler: It’s Sooner Than You Think)
Look, we love a good DIY project, but some tasks need a locksmith near me—er, us. At ALL OVER Locksmith, we handle:
- Emergency locksmith calls (because break-ins don’t wait for business hours).
- Lock change and key replacement for homes and businesses in Chatsworth, Van Nuys, and beyond.
- Garage door locksmith services (yes, that creaky garage door is a liability too).
Not sure where to start? Hit us up. We’ll make your French doors so secure, even you’ll need a password to get in.
French Door Security Upgrades: Quick Comparison
| Upgrade | Cost | DIY-Friendly? | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Security Deadbolt | $$ | No | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security Film | $ | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Lock System | $$$ | Maybe | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Reinforced Strike Plate | $ | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
3 Burning Questions (Answered Without the Fluff)
1. “Will these upgrades make my doors burglar-proof?”
Nothing’s 100% burglar-proof, but you’ll make their job so annoying they’ll move on to an easier target.
2. “How much does professional installation cost?”
Depends on the job, but think of it as insurance. A commercial lockout service or residential lockout fix is cheaper than replacing stolen valuables.
3. “Are smart locks worth the hype?”
IMO, yes—especially if you’re juggling rentals or kids who lose keys like it’s their job.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be a Statistic
Reinforcing French doors isn’t just about security—it’s about peace of mind. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, or anywhere else, ALL OVER Locksmith has your back. From Mul-T-Lock installations to access control systems, we’re here to turn your “oh no” into “heck no.”
Still got questions? Give us a shout. And remember: a secure home is a happy home (and a miserable burglar). 😉
