Free instructions for DIY “do it yourself” door security bar for your home. For less than $25.00 you can have the peace of mind knowing that your family is safer and more secure. Keep reading for further details.
Measure your door width, most are 32 or 36″ wide then add 6″ inches for the door trim width on both sides of your door. Select top grade lumber, also look down the 2X4 boards and make sure it is straight, if it is crooked (most are) do not buy it, keep looking.
Shopping List:
1-2x4x? Board straight
1-1x3x? Board straight
4-3.5″ heavy duty phillips screws
4-1/2″ wood screws
Flat metal use 1/2″ screws.
from drilling and to protect your floor.If possible line the board with the middle door hinge and deadbolt. Line the door pulls at desired location and
mark with a pencil. Predrill holes at a slight angle (away from the door)making sure to hit the double studs framing your door. Install with 3.5″ screws, place board through handle and using a level determine location of second door handle, line it up and mark with pencil. Again predrill for screws (depth of 2″) using a
smaller drill bit than the screws this will help prevent door trim from splintering and will be easier to drill in the long screws.
2-6.5″ door pulls
Or, 2-Door Brackets
Back out several hinge screws on the wall frame if they are not at least 3″ long remove them and replace them. Do this one at a time (remove one small screw and replace it with a 3″ one) this will keep the door attached to it’s frame. It’s good to have the hinges secured into the wall frame jack and king studs (see stud diagram lower right).This door brace works all the time when you have another access such as your garage, I
seldom use my front door.
without having to carry a garage door button.Plan for power failures if you have an electric garage opener, you will need to get in through your back door or another entrance.You can finish the door brace with paint or stain it. Mine was stained black one coat to show some of the pine grain. Adding several coats of polyurethane will make it slide in and out easier. Make sure it has dried 24 to 48 hours prior to installation or it will stick to the door.Adding felt to the back of the secondary bar will help prevent scratches to your door.Use verticle brackets if you have walls on both sides of doors or to make it easier to remove and reset your bar.
Never hide your keys outside burglars know where to look.
If you give out your keys keep track of who has them.
Document your homes contents using a video camera with date. This way you have proof of your belongings also keep your receipts to show if you ever have a claim with insurance.
As an added bonus by adding the backboard it pushes the door into the doors insulation trim making the door more airtight preventing drafts.
Drop cloth
Level
Tape
measure
Pencil
Electric or cordless Drill
If you did not get boards cut at hardware store then you will need circular saw, jig saw, or hand saw.
Drill bit for screws
Drill
Sand paper
Electric sander
Diagram of a door frame
A sign near front door “Beware of Dog”Leave the music or tv on when you leave, let them think someone is home.Security systemFake camerasCarry an emergency 911 button, one touch and you have help.
Keep blinds and curtains closed near front door so no one can see inside your home. Especially after dark.
