Most people think that door security largely depends on the locking mechanism. While the lock is important, the door itself also plays a significant role in ensuring your home’s security. If you have an old door constructed from wood, it may be harboring damage. Wood, after all, is very susceptible to problems rooted in factors like bad weather,pest infestation, rot and decay. Hollow doors also offer little to no resistance against different dangers. 
In these cases like these, no matter what kind of lock you install on the door, any intruder can easily kick in the door, circumventing the lock. This is why when you replace an old door, it is highly important to choose a material that offers durability and stability.
Choosing a Door for Security
When selecting a replacement door, you should consider the following:
- Material – When choosing an exterior replacement door, particularly the front door or a patio door, it is imperative that you choose a highly durable material. It needs to be durable enough to discourage anyone from attempting to destroy it or force it open. Solid wood, metal and composite or engineered wood are the best candidates.
- Hardware – Door hardware including hinges and handles should be durably made and securely attached. As these are usually found on the sides of the door and the gap between the door and the opening, they also make for weak spots that intruders may try to destroy, so they need to have ample resistance.
- Glass – For doors that have lites or windows, or patio doors that mostly consist of glass, double- or even triple-glass panes are recommended. These are harder to break than single glass panes. Furthermore, low-emissivity (low-e) glass, which has a coating of thin metallic oxide, also offers additional resistance against breakage.
- Maintenance – Low-maintenance doors are typically more durable than those that need to be maintained regularly. You can rest assured that despite not spending a lot of time maintaining the door, it will retain its durability.
- Locking system – Last but certainly not the least, you need to double- or even triple-check the door’s locking mechanism. Have the dealer or contractor show you the door’s locking features. Ideally, it should be easy for you to operate, but difficult for intruders to access and open.
Avoiding door replacement mistakes starts with learning about the mistakes themselves. It is also best to work with a door replacement professional that can help you choose the best products and provide you with certified services, ensuring that you get a durable, secure and energy-efficient door.