uPVC doors are one of the most popular doors around now, largely for their cost-effectiveness and their reliability. Modern uPVC doors can look nice whilst still keeping out the majority of drafts and are easy to make secure. But if you have uPVC doors and you’d like to make them even better, you can do so in three ways:
- improve the look of your uPVC door
- improve uPVC door security
- improve the energy efficiency of your door
There are a few different ways of making your uPVC door better, focusing on these three elements.
How to improve the look of a uPVC door
There are typically three ways to improve the look of your uPVC door. The simplest way is by replacing your door knocker. Whilst it is a small change, picking a new door knocker can drastically alter the appearance of your front door. Likewise, another way to improve the look of your uPVC door is to swap out your uPVC door handle. You can choose a different colour or a different metal, but be aware that choosing flashy door knockers and handles may make you an easy target for burglar attacks.
Alternatively, if you want to make a bigger change to your front door, you can paint uPVC. There is a huge range of colours available, and a good uPVC paint job can last as long as ten years. You can do this yourself with the right research and prep, or you can hire a professional UPVC door sprayer to help you. This can also be done to internal glazed doors and the more common external & internal doors.
How to improve uPVC door security
If you’re concerned about how secure your uPVC door is, then you’re in luck. There is a range of changes and additional security measures that you can implement on your property to improve door security and home security.
1. Install a multi-point locking system
Most modern uPVC doors already have a multi-point locking system installed, but if your front door does not have one of these systems, it is worth installing one in order to improve your home security, added Multi Point Locks a leading supplier of uPVC door locks.
A multi-point locking system is a long strip bolted into the side of the door that locks at multiple points along with the door frame. This makes it harder to break through and gain entry. These multi-point locks are also often found on patio doors, french doors, and emergency exit doors.
2. Install door chains
Door chains or door security chains are simple but surprisingly easy ways to improve the security of your home. They make it much harder to get into your property, even if somebody were to snap the lock or if you accidentally left your door unlocked. The metal chain connecting your door to its frame means that the unexpected visitor can only open the door an inch or so wide.
To install a door chain, simply decide where on the door you’d like the chain to sit – usually, the slotted plate is placed in the centre of the door, as this is typically the strongest part. Place masking tape or mark the door with a pencil if possible. Line the slotted plate up with your line or tape and mark the screw holes on your door with a pencil. Create the holes and screw the plate onto the door. Using the same technique, line up the chain and screw your chain to the door frame.
You may then want to ask a friend or family member to step outside and see if they can remove the door security. If they cannot, then you have successfully installed your standard door chain.
3. Install a British standard euro lock
British standard euro locks are an example of an anti-snap lock. They are built and installed in a way that keeps your uPVC door secure and prevents anyone from pushing your door open and snapping the locking mechanism. Lock snapping is one of the most common ways of gaining access to a property, so it is important for you to ensure your door has anti-snap cylinders.
These locks are so widely acknowledged as superior that many insurance providers will not provide insurance or will not offer cheap deals to those who live in homes without them.
To fit your anti-snap door lock, you first need to understand cylinder measurements. Ensuring you get the right measurement for your anti-lock cylinder is important; otherwise, it won’t fit in the door. Once you have your new cylinder, remove the old cylinder by unscrewing the cylinder-retaining screw on the side. Push the cylinder lock from the outside and twist a key into it until the cylinder gives way and slides out. Then, insert the new cylinder and push it into the lock until it slides into place.
4. Install sash jammers
Sash jammers are a cost-effective and simple way to make your uPVC door more secure. They are small contraptions that attach near the door frame and pivot over the door, securing the door in place. They offer another layer of protection for both inward and outward opening doors.
You can install sash jammers yourself or hire a locksmith to install your jammer for you. Install a sash jammer yourself by drilling holes into the door frame and screwing the sash jammer onto the door frame.
5. High-security handles
You can also invest in a high-security handle for your front door. These alone won’t provide a wealth of security, but they can be used alongside other security measures in order to improve uPVC door security.
High-security handles help to improve your door’s security by protecting your door from cylinder attacks, reducing the risk of lock snapping. They also protect against handle snapping, protecting your home even further.
How to improve the energy efficiency of your uPVC door
uPVC doors are generally one of the most energy-efficient doors out there, especially when compared to alternatives like wooden doors. But occasionally, they can lose energy efficiency over time. To make your uPVC door better, simply invest in things like draft excluder tape or a solid draft excluder. These can be attached or placed in front of your door to prevent the cold air from coming in and the hot air from leaving.
