Home Security Products for an Integral Garage Access Door

An integral garage access door

An integral garage access door is a door that leads directly into the garage from the house. Almost certainly, it will be fire rated to a minimum of 30 minutes and fitted with a door closer. This type of door should be treated in the same way as an external door, because if a burglar managed to get into the garage – perhaps because you forgot to lock it – he could work on the access door unseen from the street.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS

The door

Your garage access door should be at least 44mm (13/4 in) thick; make sure that it is fire rated and fitted with a door closer.

The frame

The frame should be secured to a brick wall with screws or frame fixers at maximum centres of 600 mm (2 ft) and 300 mm (1 ft) from each corner. If the wall is constructed from aerated concrete blocks, or if you think the risk of burglary is particularly high, reduce this to 450 mm (1 ft 6in) centres.

Hinges

The door should hang on three hinges.

Hinge bolts

Irrespective of the opening direction of the door, fit a pair of hinge bolts, 150 mm (6 in) below the top hinge and 150 mm above the bottom hinge.

Mortice sash lock

A BS 3621 mortice sash lock with boxed keep should be fitted just below the centre of the door, voiding any frame joints.

Door viewer

Fit a door viewer at a convenient height so that you can see into the garage.

Mortice security bolts

Install a pair of mortice security bolts in the stiles at the top and bottom of the door, operating at right angles to the grain of the wood.

ADDITIONAL SECURITY

Barrel bolts

You can fit barrel bolts on the door for night use, but read the guidance notes carefully.

Reinforcing bars

If the door opens into the house, reinforce the frame by fitting Birmingham bars to its inner face on both sides.

For more information on home security improvements with regard to your garage, whether it is integral or not connected to your property, visit: www.diyinfozone.com