Your front door protects everything behind it. While strong locks matter, the surrounding hardware plays just as big a role. In many Los Angeles homes, the frame and hinges can give way before the lock does. That’s why reinforcing key areas of the door improves overall security.
At West Coast Locksmith, we upgrade entry doors with durable hardware that resists force. Whether you’re securing a new home or improving an older one, strengthening the door frame, strike area, and hinge side makes a measurable difference.
Why Door Reinforcement Is Necessary
Many homes still rely on basic hardware that wasn’t made to withstand force. Entry doors often come with strike plates mounted using short screws and hinges that loosen over time. These parts can break under pressure, leaving the door vulnerable, even with a solid deadbolt in place.
Upgrading your hardware helps stop:
- Kick-ins that target the frame
- Failed latching due to sagging doors
- Prying attacks near the handle or deadbolt
We help homeowners in LA improve door strength without replacing the entire unit. Reinforcements cost less than full replacement and offer better protection than standard setups.
Recommended Strike Plate and Hinge Upgrades
The strike plate is where the bolt enters the frame. When reinforced, it spreads the force across a stronger section of the wall. We use heavy-duty plates and longer screws that anchor deep into wall studs, not just the trim.
We also improve hinges, which keep the door aligned and secure. If the hinges shift or weaken, it becomes easier for the door to bend or misalign. We replace short screws with longer ones, install support hardware when needed, and upgrade to stronger hinge types on heavy doors. These upgrades work together to make forced entry more difficult, protecting both the lock and the door structure.
Other Reinforcement Options
In some homes, added protection is needed. We install full door reinforcement kits that include strike plate reinforcements, latch guards to stop prying, and frame wraps that support the lock area. For doors that show signs of wear, we recommend wrap-around plates that protect the space around the handle and deadbolt.
Every home is unique, and we tailor our reinforcement solutions to meet your specific needs. We consider your door material, existing hardware, and the condition of the frame before recommending any upgrades.
Installation and Inspection
Reinforcement only works when installed correctly. We secure all parts into structural framing, not just surface trim. Our team checks door alignment, confirms hardware fit, and looks for signs of past damage. If anything is out of place, we adjust it before finishing the job. Proper installation ensures the upgrades work as intended and that the door remains easy to use.
Our installation process includes:
- Anchoring all hardware into the frame
- Checking for smooth latch engagement
- Fixing loose hinges or sagging alignment
- Verifying that doors fully close and lock securely
Strengthen Your Entry Point with Professional Help
Your front door protects your home, and small upgrades can stop big problems. Strike plate and hinge reinforcements offer a straightforward way to enhance security without altering the entire door. These changes make forced entry much more difficult and help your existing locks function more effectively.
West Coast Locksmith installs strike plates, hinge upgrades, and full door reinforcement systems across Los Angeles. We work with wood and metal doors and customize solutions based on your home’s needs. Contact us today to book a door inspection or ask about our reinforcement services for residential entry points.
