Unlocking the Secrets of Armored Doors: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction to armored doors
The security of our homes and property is a major concern for most of us. Burglaries are on the rise, and it is becoming more and more important to invest in effective solutions to protect our homes. Among these solutions, the installation of a reinforced door is a wise choice to reinforce the security of your main entrance. In this article, we will present to you everything you need to know about armored doors: their characteristics, their installation and their maintenance.
What is an armored door?
An armored door is a reinforced door designed to resist burglary and provide maximum protection against intrusions. It generally consists of a steel or aluminum frame, as well as a thick door panel covered with a material resistant to impacts and attempts at drilling or sawing. The lock is also reinforced with a multi-point system that locks the door in multiple locations along the frame.
The advantages of armored doors
- Security : The main advantage of armored doors is of course their high level of security against intrusion attempts.
- Fire resistance : Armored doors also offer excellent fire resistance, with models able to resist up to 90 minutes.
- Thermal and sound insulation: Thanks to their robust design, armored doors have good performance in terms of thermal and acoustic insulation, thus contributing to better comfort in your home.
- Aesthetic : Nowadays, manufacturers offer a wide range of designs and finishes for security doors, making it possible to find a model that fits perfectly with the aesthetic of your home.
The criteria for choosing an armored door
To choose the armored door suited to your needs, it is important to take into account several criteria:
security level
One of the first things to consider is the level of security you want to achieve. There are different levels of burglary resistance defined by the European standard EN 1627. Doors are classified into six categories (RC1 to RC6), each corresponding to an increasing level of requirements in the face of intrusion attempts. For optimal protection, we recommend that you opt for a door certified at least RC3.
Lock type
The choice of the type of lock is also crucial to guarantee the security provided by your armored door. Opt for a multi-point lock (at least three points) A2P certified, which is recognized for its resistance to break-in attempts. Electronic locks are also an attractive option, providing secure keyless access control.
Material and finish
The material of the armored door must be both robust and aesthetic. The most commonly used materials are steel, aluminum and solid wood. As for the finishes, they can vary depending on your tastes: paint, varnish or imitation wood PVC covering.
Installation of an armored door
The installation of an armored door requires a certain technical know-how and must be carried out by a qualified professional to guarantee correct installation and compliance with current standards. In fact, poor installation can compromise the security provided by your new door.
Do not hesitate to request several quotes from different professionals in order to compare prices and services offered. Also make sure that the installer has the necessary certifications (e.g. RGE label) to benefit from financial aid such as the energy transition tax credit (CITE).
Care and maintenance
To ensure the proper functioning and longevity of your armored door, it is important to carry out regular maintenance:
- Periodically check the condition of the seals around the frame as well as that of the screws and hinges.
- Lubricate the lock mechanisms and hinges at least once a year to prevent jamming or squeaking.
- Clean the door surface regularly with a soft cloth and a cleaning product suitable for its material (steel, aluminum or wood).
In the event of a malfunction, do not hesitate to call a professional to carry out the necessary repairs. A well-maintained armored door will provide you with optimal protection for many years.
Conclusion
Investing in an armored door is a wise choice to strengthen the security of your home against intrusion attempts. Take the time to choose the model that best meets your needs in terms of security level, type of lock and aesthetics. Remember that installation must be carried out by a qualified professional to ensure effectiveness. Finally, remember to regularly maintain your armored door to ensure its longevity and performance.