Home security matters, so we decided to add another layer of protection to our front door in addition to the deadbolt. We replaced an old chain lock with a swing bar lock from National Hardware, and the upgrade has been well worth it. Below is a straightforward guide to what we did and why this simple change improved our door security.
Why a Swing Bar Lock?
We already use a video doorbell, but wanted extra reinforcement. A swing bar lock functions similarly to a chain lock while offering far greater strength. The unit includes extra-long screws to anchor it securely into the door frame, making it far more resistant to being pushed or kicked open than a thin chain. The lock’s die-cast metal construction is also sturdier and more reliable over time.
Beyond deterring intrusions, the bar lock is mounted at a height that prevents our young children from reaching it easily. While our eldest can operate the deadbolt, unlocking the swing bar would require extra effort and creativity he doesn’t have at his age—an added benefit for families with small kids.
Preparation and Placement
You can add a swing bar lock to virtually any door configuration as long as there is room for installation. We removed the existing chain lock first, then positioned the new swing bar lock in the same general area to use the familiar location. Holding both pieces in place allowed us to confirm that the ball catch aligned correctly with the bar when the door swung open.
Once we were satisfied with the placement, we used a pencil to mark the screw holes on both the door and the frame. Accurate marking helps ensure the pieces sit flush and operate smoothly.
Drilling and Installation
We pre-drilled pilot holes with a 3/32″ drill bit. Pre-drilling makes it easier to drive the screws and helps them enter the wood straight, reducing the chance of splitting the frame or door.
After pre-drilling, we attached the two hardware pieces with the supplied screws using a driver. We checked alignment before fully tightening each screw to make sure the bar engaged smoothly with the catch.
Finishing Touches
We used wood filler to cover the old chain lock screw holes and then repainted that section to match the door frame. The entire job took less than 20 minutes from start to finish, and the result is a noticeably more secure front entrance.
The National Hardware Door Security Guard lock we installed is an affordable upgrade; in our experience it delivers solid security for a small investment. If you’re looking for a quick, effective way to strengthen your entry door without major modifications, a swing bar lock is a practical choice.
This post is sponsored by National Hardware. All opinions are those of Timothy Dahl of Charles & Hudson.