- Timber doors should have a solid core, be at least 44mm thick and comply with BS 8220.
- Doors made of other materials must have passed the British Board of Agreement (BBA) security test for doors.
Laminated glass should be used in all glazed areas. Wooden beading should be glued and fixed with security screws.
Front doors should have a viewer and door chain.- Doors used as the final point of exit should be fitted with a lock which conforms to BS 3621 or the new BS EN 12209 security standards.
- Back doors should ideally be fitted with a five lever mortise deadlock and two sashlock (latch), one a third from the top, one a third from the bottom.
- Letter boxes should be positioned so that people cannot reach through and release the lock. A restrictor on the inside may be useful.
- When fitting security products always remember to use strong bolts and long screws.
- Make sure you have an escape route in case of fire or other emergency
Patio Doors
Most patio doors made recently will incorporate a multi-point locking system. On older units and those without multi-point locking, fit special patio door locks to the top and bottom of the sliding door. Also ensure that an "anti-lift" device is used. This will prevent the sliding door being levered off its runners.
If the sliding door runs to the inside of the fixed panel, wedge a sturdy wood or metal bar/pole between it and the frame to restrict movement.