Key Takeaways
1. Outward-swinging doors are secure but need extra protection for hinges and locks.
2. Adding latch guards and stronger hinges can make these doors much safer.
3. Great Valley Lockshop provides expert help to secure your doors effectively for customers in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and New Jersey.
Methods to Secure Outward-Swinging Doors
Outward-swinging doors, while common in commercial spaces and some residential settings, can present unique security challenges. Their design, with hinges exposed on the exterior side, can make them more susceptible to forced entry if not properly secured.
While the methods outlined below are effective in enhancing security, it’s important to note that no solution is completely foolproof. Combining these strategies with other security measures and remaining vigilant can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
1. Install a Latch Guard
A latch guard is a metal plate that covers the gap between the door and the frame, preventing intruders from tampering with the latch or lock. This solution is particularly useful for outward-swinging doors, where the latch and deadbolt may otherwise be exposed.
Latch guards are typically made from heavy-duty steel or aluminum, and they’re available in various sizes to fit different door designs. A professionally installed latch guard can be a simple yet highly effective deterrent against forced entry attempts.
2. Use a Security Bar or Door Barricade
Security bars are versatile tools that work by bracing the door from the inside, making it nearly impossible to open from the outside, even with substantial force. While commonly associated with inward-swinging doors, some models are specifically designed for outward-swinging doors.
Fixed security bars can be permanently installed for high-security applications, while portable options are ideal for renters or travelers seeking temporary protection.
3. Reinforce with a Door Plate
Adding a reinforcement plate to the door and frame can significantly improve its resistance to physical attacks. This involves installing heavy-duty plates around the lock and hinges to strengthen the areas most vulnerable to break-ins.
For outward-swinging doors, a hinge-side reinforcement plate ensures that the door cannot be pried off its frame.
4. Install a Strike Plate Lock
Strike plate locks are a great way to enhance the security of outward-swinging doors. These devices work by securing the door frame with an additional locking mechanism.
Strike plate locks are relatively easy to install and provide an added layer of protection against forced entry. Ensure that the strike plate is made from durable materials like steel and secured with long screws to anchor it deeply into the door frame.
5. Apply a Door Jammer
Door jammers are portable devices that brace against the floor, effectively stopping the door from being forced open. Many modern door jammers are adjustable, making them suitable for a variety of door designs, including outward-swinging ones.
These are especially useful for travelers who want to secure hotel or rental property doors without permanent modifications.
6. Upgrade to Non-Removable Pin Hinges
One of the primary vulnerabilities of outward-swinging doors is the exposure of their hinges. Intruders can potentially remove standard hinge pins to gain access.
Upgrading to hinges with non-removable pins eliminates this risk. These specialized hinges are designed to lock the pins in place, ensuring that the door remains secure even if someone tries to tamper with them.
Pros and Cons of an Outward Opening Door
Outward-opening doors are a popular choice for specific settings, such as commercial buildings, public spaces, and homes in hurricane-prone regions. While they offer unique benefits compared to an inward-opening door, they also come with some challenges. Here’s a closer look at their pros and cons:
Pros of an Outward-Opening Door
- Enhanced security. These doors are harder to force open because they cannot be pushed inward. Their design makes them resistant to break-ins and maintains the door’s structural integrity under strong wind pressure.
- Saves space. Since they open outward, they don’t interfere with furniture or other interior setups, unlike an inward opening door.
- Better for emergencies. Outward-opening doors allow quick evacuation as they swing away from the inside, making them ideal for high-traffic spaces.
- Weather-resistant. When installed correctly, they seal tightly to keep rain and wind out, helping maintain energy efficiency when the door is closed.
- Durable under pressure. These doors are harder to breach with brute force, reducing the risk of unauthorized attempts to gain entry.
Cons of an Outward-Opening Door
- Hinge exposure. Hinges are located outside, making them a potential weak point for intruders. This issue can be addressed with non-removable pin hinges or hinge guards to improve door security.
- Blocked access. An opening door can be obstructed by snow, debris, or even a poorly placed object outside, making access difficult.
- Weather wear. Exterior hinges and seals are exposed to the elements, which can wear them down over time if not properly maintained.
- Accidental contact. In busy areas, an opening door may hit passersby, especially in tight spaces.
- Privacy concerns. When the door is open, the outward movement is visible, potentially affecting privacy in residential settings.
- Limited lock options. Standard locks, including door handle locks, may require adjustments to work well with outward-opening doors.
If you have an outward-opening door, ensuring optimal door security is crucial. Reinforcing hinges, installing latch guards, and addressing any vulnerabilities can make a big difference. At Great Valley Lockshop, we specialize in solutions for both outward- and inward-opening doors, offering high-quality locks, secure door handle options, and expert advice.
Whether your concern is with an opening door or a door closed, our team can help you secure your home or business. Contact us today for professional solutions tailored to your needs!
Addressing Common Challenges in Securing Outward-Swinging Doors
Outward-swinging doors are practical and durable but come with unique security and maintenance challenges. Here’s a quick guide to common issues and how to solve them effectively:
Challenge: Hinge vulnerability.
Solution: Upgrade to non-removable pin hinges or install hinge guards to prevent tampering.
Challenge: Blocked access.
Solution: Keep the area outside the door clear of snow, debris, or other objects that could obstruct the door from opening.
Challenge: Exposed locks.
Solution: Add a latch guard or door reinforcement plate to protect locks from tampering or forced entry.
Challenge: Weather wear.
Solution: Regularly inspect and maintain seals, hinges, and frames to prevent damage from exposure to the elements.
Challenge: Privacy concerns.
Solution: Use outdoor privacy screens or position the door to limit visibility when it’s open.
For professional advice and upgrades, trust Great Valley Lockshop to enhance the security and functionality of your doors!
Improve Your Home Security With the Help of Professionals!
Outward-swinging doors are a practical and secure choice, but their unique vulnerabilities, such as exposed hinges and potential weather wear, require proper reinforcements. By addressing these challenges, you can significantly improve your home or business security, ensuring peace of mind and protection against unauthorized access.
At Great Valley Lockshop, we specialize in enhancing the security of outward-swinging doors. From installing latch guards and non-removable pin hinges to upgrading security system and providing expert advice, we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your doors are secure, durable, and functional.
What You Should Do Next?
- Inspect your outward-swinging door for vulnerabilities, such as loose hinges or exposed locks.
- Schedule a consultation with Great Valley Lockshop to explore the best reinforcement options for your doors.
- Take proactive steps to secure not only your doors but also other potential entry points around your property.
Don’t wait to secure your home or business. Call Great Valley Lockshop today or visit our website to schedule your consultation. Let us help you take the next step in ensuring the safety and security of your property!
