Do door security chains work and are they safe?
For a small investment, a door chain adds an additional layer of home safety and security. It’s important, though, not to let them give you a false sense of security though. They can’t take the place of quality deadbolts and strong entrance locks. For door security chains to work to best effect you must fit them properly.
What are the benefits of a door chain?
Door chains give you some protection when you need to open the door. More importantly, they give you a few vital seconds whereby you can slam the door shut should an intruder try to force their way in. For a small investment, a door chain adds an additional layer of home safety and security.
How to choose the best door chain lock for metal door?
Usually, the screws are longer and you will need a drill to mount the lock properly on the surface. Always look at the description of the lock to see if it is a chain lock for metal door. It is easy to have the best door chain lock if you know the features that you need to look for.
What is the meaning of door chain?
Look up door chain in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. A door chain, security chain, or security door chain or chain door interviewer consists of a small chain attached to the door frame, which attaches to a track on the door for security purposes. It is a type of lock that is often used along with other types of locks to secure a door.
How secure is a door chain?
Door chains normally come equipped with very short screws which easily rip out. Any amount of force capable of defeating a deadbolt will also defeat a door chain.
Do chain locks really work?
Chain locks work better with ground anchors than D locks do. This is thanks to their greater length and size. A larger locking area can be a good advantage when securing your bike at home, as you'll be able to secure more than one bike at a time.
Where should a door chain be placed?
The security chain keep is usually placed on the lock rail, across the middle of the door where it is the strongest. Place some masking tape at the level where you want the chain to be. Put the slotted plate against the side of the door, and make clear marks in the screw holes using your pencil.
How do you secure a chain lock on a door?
0:251:52Keyed Chain Door Lock - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe holes pre-drill. And fasten with one inch screws provided. Now just insert the chain latch intoMoreThe holes pre-drill. And fasten with one inch screws provided. Now just insert the chain latch into the chain plate until the lock engages.
What type of chain is best for security?
For reliable security, the links of the chain should be made from a high quality, core hardened steel alloy, that's not too brittle. The easiest way to guarantee this is to buy from a reputable brand such as Kryptonite, OnGuard, Abus or Pragmasis.
How do you break a door chain?
All you need is some kind of string (dental floss, yarn, ribbon, etc.) or a sturdy rubber band (the thicker the better, so it won't snap under pressure). Both methods require manipulating the material so that the chain end is pulled towards the wider slot that will make the chain fall out, hence unlocking the door.
What height should a door chain be fitted?
Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices shall be installed 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum above the finished floor.
How do you fit a door chain to a UPVC door?
5:0811:25How To Fit A Door Chain To A Door - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou take the center of this and run it across here. So now you've got two positions that's the oneMoreYou take the center of this and run it across here. So now you've got two positions that's the one that's fielder and if you place that against the edge of the pencil marks.
Are cable or chain bike locks better?
A decent chain is better than pretty much any cable lock. Cable locks can be cut with hand tools that fit in your pocket. A decent (but portable) cable needs a long bolt cutter. Possible exception are Litelock Gold thick cable locks, but they weigh similar to a chain.
Is there a chain that Cannot be cut?
The Best Chain Has Hexagonal or Square Links A heavy-duty, hardened steel chain with hexagonal links thwarts nearly every thief with a bolt cutter. Hexagonal links (or square or trapezoidal) make it impossible for bolt cutters to get a grip.
What is the hardest bike lock to break?
The Strongest Bike LockKryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit: Strongest U Lock. ... Abus Granit X-Plus 54 Mini: Strong and Light. ... Kryptonite New York Standard: Strong and Big. ... OnGuard Brute Mini: Strong and Cheap. ... Pragmasis Protector: Strongest Stationary Chain Lock. ... Kryptonite New York Noose: Strongest Portable Chain Lock.More items...•
How long of a bike chain lock do I need?
A good lock should be long enough to enclose a wheel, the frame, and the rack, pole, or fence you're locking the bike to. It should have the right amount of slack so you don't scratch the bike, but not so much that thieves can easily break it open.
Wondering if door chains are actually effective when it comes to home security?
With most door locks, there are two obvious ‘options’ – open and closed. While this is obviously ideal if you’re leaving or entering your home, matters are complicated slightly when it comes to opening the door to let people in, especially strangers.
What is a door chain?
Door chains are chains that restrict how far the door can open, allowing for a midpoint between fully open and fully closed. They can be different lengths, but are typically just a few inches long – they allow the door to open just enough to see out, but not enough for someone to reach in.
Do they actually work?
When door chains are made to a high standard and installed properly, they can be highly effective. Especially important for vulnerable individuals, they allow for a more in-depth conversation with someone to take place before letting them in than the alternatives, such as door viewers and doorbell cameras.
Quality and installation are important
The issue with door chains is that a lot of the options on the market are poor quality. Even if the chain is made to a high standard, if it’s not installed appropriately, a potential intruder could likely kick the door in.
Who are they especially useful for?
Door chains can offer an extra layer of protection for any household, no matter the inhabitants. They can be especially useful for elderly people, or anyone who is in a situation that would make them especially vulnerable to burglars.
What are the drawbacks of a door chain?
One of the drawbacks of the door chain or limiter is that some people treat it like a door lock. In other words they think it should be on all the time and then take it off when they answer the door!
What is chain reaction DNA?
Chain Reaction DNA is a new ‘police approved’ door security product that has been designed to ease the fear of burglary and at the same time give burglars more food for thought! The threat of being forensically linked to a crime scene being the ultimate deterrent!
How does Aunty Flo open the door?
If Aunty Flo does need to open the door she puts on the chain and also puts a rubber door stop onto the floor a few centimetres back from the door . This means that the door opens with the chain and onto the door stop. She puts her foot firmly behind the door stop and opens the door, knowing full well that it would be very difficult to force the door open any further.
Is a coachbolt stronger than a door chain?
These devices are somewhat stronger than door chains, but not necessarily the fittings. Some of the better quality ones have some of the screws fitting at 90° to the force direction and, as with door chains, I would attempt to use the longest screws possible and coachbolts if the door and frame permit their use.
Is chain reaction DNA a forensic component?
Chain Reaction DNA has been installed and the forensic component registered to numerous homes and businesses throughout the UK and has also been deployed in domestic violence applications. StranDNA are pleased to say that not one of the target hardened addresses using our product has suffered a re-offence or unlawful entry since its application leading us to believe the deterrent value is working!
Can you use coach bolts on a door chain?
Door chains are available in a wide variety of designs, but the majority of them are fixed to the door and the doorframe with a few screws, invariably in line with forces that could be applied by a criminal kicking or barging his way through the door. Use the longest screws you can and in some circumstances you might be able to fit the brackets with coach bolts, with the mushroom head on the outside of the door. This hugely improved the strength of the fitting when I did this at my previous house.
Why are door chains important?
Door chains and restrictors offer a low-tech layer of added safety and security for dealing with strangers on your doorstep. There are two main points to consider before choosing a door chain:
Why do we need a door chain?
Door chains give you some protection when you need to open the door. More importantly, they give you a few vital seconds whereby you can slam the door shut should an intruder try to force their way in. For a small investment, a door chain adds an additional layer of home safety and security.
What is the most important door in a home?
Fit door chains or door restrictors to whichever doors are entry points into your home. The front door is usually the most important as it’s the one that the majority of strangers approach first. Depending on the structure and urban layout, callers may also use a side door or back door.
Why is it important to have a door restrictor for seniors?
A good quality door restrictor or door chain gives seniors and their families extra peace of mind. Older people, and particularly those 70 and above, are more vulnerable than younger folks in society. Many are too trusting for their own good when it comes to dubious callers. Some people who run financial scams, fraud and house break-ins target old people living at home alone because of their vulnerability. The best advice for seniors is to not open the door at any time of day or night until you can verify who the stranger is on the other side.
What is a chain restrictor?
A chain or door restrictor is a simple device that allows you to control communication with people standing on the outside of the door. These tools are typically just a couple of inches long, attached to your door and doorframe around head height. The chain prevents the door from opening beyond a crack.
What are the flaws in door chains?
One of the main flaws with door security chains and restrictors is that they come with short screws. This makes it easy for a powerful kick to tear them away from the surface. There’s a simple solution to this problem, and that is to use longer screws.
Where do you attach a chain fixture?
The chain fixture has to attach to a stationary surface, usually the door frame, and the slide catch to the door. The slide catch must be close to the door’s edge. If it’s too far away you won’t have freedom to attach or detach the chain. If in doubt get someone to fit it for you.
What is a Door Chain?
A door chain is a restriction that has been designed to prevent distraction burglary and stop an intruder from entering your home when you open your front door.
What type of door chain is best for a wooden door?
Standard door chains are suitable for wooden and timber doors.
What are the different types of door chains?
The two main types of door chains you find are standard door chains ( non-locking versions ) and lockable door chains.
What is an alternative to a standard chain?
An alternative to the standard chain is by fitting a lockable door chain, which is perfect if you would like to upgrade your security and one that is child proof.
Can a door chain be fitted incorrectly?
Can be fitted incorrectly or poorly, leaving them subject to attack. Some people treat a door chain like a door lock, and leave the chain on all the time, rather than locking their door.
Can you leave an emergency exit on a chainsaw?
No emergency exit if left on the chain and locked all the time.
Can a door chain be used on a door lever?
An alternative to using a standard door chain is fitting a door chain restrictor with ring, which are suitable for uPVC and composite doors, they will fit any door that has a door lever type handle.
Why do people use door chains?
Door chains are mainly intended to allow a person inside a structure to open the door slightly for purposes of communicating with individuals outside or exchanging small objects through the door while still preventing the individuals outside from gaining unauthorized access into the structure .
Why do we need a chain on a door?
Advantages. Door chains are fairly easy to install and use. Use of a door chain provides a little security when dealing with strangers. A properly installed door chain is resistant to tampering from the outside requiring use of physical force to open the door, which will leave obvious evidence.
What are the disadvantages of installing a door bar?
A disadvantage to door bar installation is that the door must be level with the wall, so the lock cannot be used if the home has trim that projects from the wall. Intercoms, peep holes, and mail slots can all serve purposes similar to the door chain when dealing with strangers, and function without opening the door.
What is a security chain?
A door chain, security chain, or security door chain consists of a small chain attached to the door frame, which attaches to a track on the door for security purposes. It is a type of lock that is often used along with other types of locks to secure a door.
What is a swing bar lock?
swing bar lock. A door security restrictor, aka a door swing bar lock, is a newer device intended to replace door chains.
What are the benefits of security screens?
As an added benefit, security screen doors can allow the door to be opened, and provide for secure ventilation. The main downside is the cost, which is generally about as much as a regular door, and locks are usually sold separately.
What is a security screen door?
Security screen doors add a second set of hinges or locks to defeat before access to a structure can be granted. If the intention is to keep thieves out, or keep disturbed individuals in, this is a better solution. Security screen doors also make it possible to open the main door, and communicate with those outside. Some even have mail slots. As an added benefit, security screen doors can allow the door to be opened, and provide for secure ventilation. The main downside is the cost, which is generally about as much as a regular door, and locks are usually sold separately. Installation can also be difficult, as the doorknobs of the two doors may interfere with each other, and the screen material usually interferes with any peephole devices on the door.
Top 12 Door Chain Lock Reviews
Constructed with die-cast zinc, the National Hardware N183-590 V807 Door Chain provided the sturdiness that I needed to prevent my six-year-old son from escaping out of our house.
What to Look for When Buying Door Chain Locks
There are some features that you must take into consideration so you can easily choose the kind of chain lock that will fit your needs and style. Rushing to acquire a lock without carefully evaluating the lock may only end in frustration. To avoid this, here are the features that you must look for in a lock:
Frequently Asked Questions
Chain door locks are effective as additional security for an apartment or a house. They help in preventing an intruder from forcibly entering if the door is partially opened. However, they cannot be an alternative for stronger locks such as deadbolt locks. There are also door chain lock alternative that you can use.
Conclusion
It is easy to have the best door chain lock if you know the features that you need to look for. You don’t need to rush in choosing a lock and waste your resources and effort. A high-quality lock will surely meet your needs, and at the same time keep your family secure.
