Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
Since many French doors are chosen for an opening between indoors and outdoors, the following security measures are recommended against break-ins.
1. Get a deadbolt lock that has a horizontal bolt at least 1 inch long.
2. Buy a reinforced strike plate with your deadbolt lock—at least 18 inches thick and requires 3-inch screws.
3. Make sure the hinges are installed on the inside so burglars cannot simply remove the exterior pins to break into your home.
4. Consider using a metal reinforcement that fits around the door where it’s been drilled to accept the lock and knob.
5. Also consider a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires a key to open whether you’re inside or outside. This will help prevent a burglar from just breaking the glass and reaching in to open the door. However, you will need to keep the key in a handy location in the case of fire.
