Top 10 Best Door Security Bars Comparison Table (Pricing & Features)
With all of the options out there, it can be hard for families to find the best door security bars for their needs. This side-by-side chart can help with comparing the key features of each device.
Provider | Total Score | Price | BBB Rating | DIY instal | Trial Period | Warranty | Alarm | Child-Proof | E-Release | Inside/Outside | Material | Portable | Size Fit | Weight Limit |
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1. Brinks | 9.6 | $21.71 | A+ | Yes | – | Lifetime | No | No | No | Inside | 20-Gauge Steel | Yes | 25-43” | 300 lbs. |
2. Defender | 9.6 | $10.49+ | A | Yes | – | 1 year | No | Yes | No | Inside | Aluminum | Yes | 36-51” | 800 lbs. |
3. SABRE | 9.4 | $9.99 | A+ | Yes | – | 1 year | Yes | No | No | Both | Plastic, Rubber | Yes | 24-51″+ | – |
4. Ideal Patio | 9.2 | $19.54 | – | Yes | 30 days | 1 year | No | Yes | No | Both | Aluminum | Yes | 25.5-47.5″ | – |
5. Fox Valley | 9.2 | $15.52 | – | Yes | 45 days | 1 year | No | No | No | Inside | Metal/Plastic | Yes | 33⅝ -38⅞” | – |
6. Nightlock | 9.0 | $34.95+ | – | Yes | – | 1 year | No | No | No | Inside | Aluminum | Yes | 36-72” | 1,100 lbs. |
7. DoorJammer | 9.0 | $29.99 | – | Yes | 30 days | 1 year | No | No | Yes | Inside | Steel | Yes | 36-51” | 450 lbs. |
8. Master Lock | 8.8 | $20.96 | – | Yes | – | Lifetime | No | No | No | Inside | 20-Gauge Steel | Yes | 27.5-44.5″ | 350 lbs. |
9. Cocoweb PortBlock | 8.8 | $20 | – | Yes | – | 1 year | No | No | No | Inside | 20-Gauge Steel | Yes | 24.5-45″ | 350 lbs. |
10. Buddybar Door Jammer | 8.6 | $109.00 | – | Yes | 30 days | – | No | No | No | Inside | 16-Gauge Steel | Yes | 36-51” | 2,560 lbs. |
Before You Buy: Understanding Door Security Options
Even though reviewers like to lump the best door security bars, reinforcements, and deadbolts into one big category, there are subtle yet important differences. Here’s what to know about each option before hitting the store.
Lock Reinforcer
These items go around or clip to the existing lock and work great against lock-pickers and cunning burglars. Well-made reinforcers can withstand tampering and force, too. Moreover, they’re portable and are excellent for frequent travelers. Just keep in mind that many reviews mention that they might not be compatible with smart locks.
Pros:
- Deters lock-pickers
- Small & portable
- The click means it's secure
Cons:
- Less sturdy than deadbolts
- Not always compatible with smart systems
Jammers
As the name suggests, these products “jam” the doorframe and prevent intruders from breaking in. Jammers usually have one end that sits on the floor and another that wedges between the knob. Most of them are pressure-mounted and can withstand hundreds of pounds of force.
Pros:
- Available at all price ranges
- Pressure-mounted resistance
- Simple removal
Cons:
- Plastic jammers break often
- Wide range of durability
Safety Bars
These items line up with the width of the frame and go right across the middle. The best door security bars adjust to fit into the frame perfectly and can stand up to intense pressure and force. Some are spring-loaded, and others require hardware.
Pros:
- Adjust to the frame's width
- Stop intruders from pushing themselves in
- Usually simple to install
Cons:
- Can be pricey
- Vary widely in reliability
Factors to Consider When Securing Doors
It’s not hard to see from this front door security review that there are plenty of suitable options on the market. However, different families will have their specific needs, and the house may interesting measurements to work with. Here’s how to make a smart purchase.
1. Height & Width Measurements
Dimensions play a huge role in how well a deadbolt or other item will work. Most standard doorways measure 30 to 36 inches wide. The height can range and go as high as 80 inches. Always be sure to check the home's doorframes before committing to a purchase.
2. High or Low?
While there are lots of products that offer front door security, they'll differ in where they sit. Some go at the base of the frame while others sit up high, out of reach. Others go right in the middle for easier access.
3. Materials & Might
What the door security devices are made of will play a role in how durable and sturdy they are. Common materials include steel, aluminum, and other strong metals. However, certain parts or attachments may be made of plastic and are easy to break.
4. Set-Up & Design
As with surveillance cameras, different door security locks will require specific installation. Some are pressure-mounted and can set up in seconds. Others call for hardware and minimal drilling, which is annoying, but more dependable. Keep that in mind when shopping around and checking home reviews and advice.
5. Strength & Dependability
A security door is only as strong as its weakest spots. Items that have cheap plastic parts may break after just a couple of uses. It's often well worth it to invest in quality materials like cast steel and high-grade aluminum.
6. Height Adjustments
Depending on the security door device, clients may have the option to place it within quick reach or to adjust the height. Either way, make sure that the product doesn't block certain parts that will prevent the family from getting out in an emergency.
7. Safe Reinforcements
Customers may notice that many front door security bars come with reinforcements such as rubber feet and pivoting heads. This allows for more user flexibility while also maintaining strength against heavy forces. Extra padding can prevent scratches and damage to the floor or walls.
8. Pricing
Of course, the cost is a huge determining factor when buying a door security product. Just remember that customers often get what they pay for. It's worth investing a bit in something that will stand the test of time and withstand anything thrown at it. Home reviews can help with finding the best bar or stopper to use, depending on the price range.
Top 4 Useful Tips & Hints for Secure Doors
While a security door bar isn’t an absolute necessity, it provides tons of peace of mind. In addition to using one, practice these safety tips and keep crime away.
1. Always Lock Up
Locking up should always be a top priority, but if household locks aren't cutting it, consider alternatives. There are door security deadbolts, cameras, and more. The type of device depends on the property, existing safety systems, and more.
2. Be Careful With Windows
A security door is one thing, but also be considerate of the windows in the home. Large panes of glass are a welcoming sight to burglars, so invest in a glass break or entry sensor. Moreover, some thick, durable curtains can help to make the windows stand out less.
3. Reinforce Sliding Doors
Proper door security applies to all kinds of openings. This includes hinged, standard, double, and sliding doorways. That last one is particularly crucial since its susceptible to break-ins. Reinforce it with a polycarbonate coating or thick panes, and consider a deadbolt or similar items specifically for this type of frame.
4. Depend on Deadbolts
Door security devices such as deadbolts are spring-loaded and can come in handy during emergencies or just everyday life. They're one of the sturdiest options and are known for being supremely strong and efficient. Plus, they work on different frames and can only unlock from the inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How to Make a Door More Secure?
First of all, make use of those locks. Even in the safest of neighborhoods, burglaries happen frequently. Something such as a bar, deadbolt, or lock companion will do the trick. A security door device could be just the thing to ramp up safety and durability, so it’s worth the extra bit of money. Also, if the doorframe has a lot of glass, consider a thicker, reinforcing coating such as poly-carbonate.
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What is the Top Door Jammer?
It depends on the type of property, and what kinds of openings are in the house. Fortunately, there are plenty of door security devices, and the top choices are on this list. Look for durable materials such as steel or cast aluminum. Pressure-mounted or spring-loaded ones are often the strongest and most reliable.
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How to Put a Security Bar on a Sliding Door?
Wooden dowels can only do so much, and a locking mechanism adds much more assurance. There are mechanisms made specifically for sliding tracks, and they typically fit into the little grooves. Others come with mounting equipment and hardware to install for greater durability, and some of the best are pressurized or spring-loaded.
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What is the Point of a Deadbolt?
A deadbolt is one of those door security devices that has the added protection of a unique locking mechanism. The only way to release it from the frame is by turning the key pin and taking it out. Otherwise, it’s stuck there, and this is convenient for keeping intruders out.
No Home Can Go Without A Solid Security Door
To have a truly protected property, some kind of secure locking mechanism is necessary. Fortunately, there are 10 top choices to look at here. With all of the varieties and price points, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to peruse the ideas above and create your safest home in 2021.