Door and Window Security: What to Actually Specify

The specification lines that decide whether a door resists a determined attempt.

Security is a specification, not a brand. Two doors from the same manufacturer can be built to very different levels depending on what was ticked at order stage.

These are the lines worth insisting on.

Tested door sets

PAS 24 is the enhanced security standard applied to doors and windows as complete tested sets. It tests the whole assembly, which is why a tested door set is more meaningful than a claim about a single component.

Cylinders and mechanisms

Anti-snap, anti-bump and anti-drill cylinders address the most common forced-entry method on uPVC and composite doors. The multipoint mechanism behind it needs to be equally good.

Glass and hinges

Laminated glass in glazed doors, side panels and accessible ground-floor windows resists being broken through. Hinge bolts and reinforced keeps stop the hinge side becoming the weak point.

Get security specified properly

Ask us to quote the security specification explicitly — cylinder, mechanism, glass and hinges.

Frequently asked questions

Does my insurer require a specific standard?

Some policies specify lock standards. It's worth checking your policy wording before you order.

Can I upgrade the cylinder on an existing door?

Usually yes, and it's one of the most cost-effective security improvements available.

Is laminated glass worth it on ground-floor windows?

On accessible windows, particularly at the rear of a property, it's a sensible upgrade.

Related pages

All guides · Get a free quote