It is not unusual for homeowners to leave the doors open, especially on a hot day. Unfortunately, crooks can see this as an invite to help themselves and take what is not theirs. Safety doors can help in providing basic to intermediate-level security while letting air and light in the house. However, some doors could still be porous, especially if the door frame is weak. This article will teach you everything you need to know about safety doors.
Things to look for while buying a safety door
These are a few aspects to consider while buying a safety door:
- The standard: Unlike iron-clad security doors, safety doors only protect homeowners against flies and intruders on a basic level. We can reinforce these doors with better materials for better security purposes.
- Frame: Homeowners can choose between Aluminium and steel frames. Steel frames are protected against corrosion. However, they are highly prone to corrosion in comparison to Aluminium frames. The frames must be reinforced around the edges. When the edges are completely welded, the frames will be stronger. It should also have a deep receiver channel. The connection between the frame and the deep receiver channel should be sturdy.
- Infill: The safety door infill can be made from stainless steel, aluminium grilles, perforated sheets, diamond grille, casting grille, or even just flyscreen mesh. Perforated sheets are a fairly new concept. They look similar to a steel mesh but at a lower price. Steel meshes provide security without spoiling the view but can be fairly expensive.
- Grilles: The grille cords should be sturdy and thick. It should be attached to the door properly. Otherwise, even the strongest grille will be meaningless. The grille is usually riveted into the door frame. Homeowners should ensure that these rivets are entirely inaccessible.
- Locks: Locks to the safety door could include a single robust lock. Homeowners should avoid wafer locks and three-pin locks since they usually get damaged by intruders. Reputed lock companies offer up to 25 years warranty on their locks. Homeowners should consider the warranty before purchasing a lock.
- Hinges: The diamond door is a safety door that could have a minimum of 2 hinges that are unremovable once they are installed. Steel pins are welded into the hinge instead of hammered in, enhancing the door’s security. This strategy will prevent intruders from breaking in and provide the homeowners with optimum security.
- Customization: Safety doors must always be customized for fitting in with a given entrance. To ensure higher security, ensure that the frame and fitting are robust enough on all fronts.
How much does a safety door cost?
- Aluminium safety doors
The cheapest aluminium safety doors cost approximately $250 but are only good against flies. For protection against intruders, consider installing a customized safety door. These doors will cost roughly $450. - Aluminium perforated sheet
A perforated aluminium sheet can cost roughly $650 and are usually used in isolated establishments - Stainless steel mesh
Costs for a stainless steel mesh range between $800 and $1000 depending on the steel quality in use.
Best practices for cleaning the safety door
- Hose the screen down from inside and outside.
- Scrub the screen gently with warm water, detergents and a soft cloth.
- Rewash the screen and dry it.
Homeowners might be tempted to use a vacuum or a brush, but it can damage the door’s integrity. Hence, it is not recommended to use them.
