Strengthen a Door
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Quick answer: Anchor the strike plate to the house framing with 3-inch screws (Baltimore PD; Waco PD), make sure the deadbolt throw is at least 1 inch and fully enters the strike (Waco PD), and add a wide-angle viewer (Seattle PD). Solid-core or metal exterior doors are stronger (Baltimore PD).
⚠ Safety first:
- Keep at least one door or window per room usable as a quick fire exit; don’t let security hardware block escape (Seattle PD).
- Use the right screws and drill bits, and wear eye protection when drilling.
- If something feels wrong or you see suspicious activity, call 911 (Baltimore PD).
Steps: easiest & free first
- Check the throwFREE
Extend the deadbolt; it should be at least 1 inch and go fully into the strike plate (Waco PD). - Swap in 3-inch screwsSHOP · 15 min
Replace short strike-plate screws with 3-inch screws that reach the framing (Baltimore PD). - Do the hinges tooSHOP
Seattle PD lists 3-inch screws and tamper-proof hinges. - Add a door viewerSHOP
A wide-angle (180-degree) viewer (Seattle PD). - Weatherstrip a loose doorSHOP
Baltimore PD suggests weatherstripping if the door doesn’t fit tightly. - Call a pro for frame damagePRO
See below.
⚠ When to call a pro: a cracked or split door frame; locks or doors damaged in a break-in (report to police first); doors that don’t fit their frames; and any hardwired lights, doorbells or cameras that need new wiring; that’s a job for an electrician (see breakers and outlets). Renters: ask your landlord before changing locks or drilling. Renting? See what you can fix vs. call your landlord.
Helpful supplies
| Item | Why | |
|---|---|---|
| 3-inch wood screws | Anchor strike plate into framing | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Heavy-duty strike plate | Police-recommended | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Wide-angle door viewer | See who’s there | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
Generic categories only; check the product label and your home’s needs before buying.