Insights > Category > Posted: 2025-Oct-01, Updated: 2025-Oct-01

Learn About Doors
Door Security

When buying a new front door, Ottawa homeowners face an important decision: how to balance style, energy efficiency, and above all, security. A residential entrance door is your home’s first line of defence, and modern manufacturing has come a long way in providing solutions that maximise both safety and peace of mind.

In this article:

For anyone purchasing a new door, whether for a renovation or a new build, understanding today’s security-focused features can help ensure you make the right investment.

Strong door construction

A secure door begins with its construction. Today’s doors are engineered not only for strength but also to withstand Ottawa’s demanding climate.

Solid Wood doors

Solid wood doors provide moderate resistance to forced entry. High-quality engineered cores improve their strength, but wood is generally easier to breach than steel or reinforced fibreglass under significant force.

Fibreglass doors

Fibreglass doors offer good resistance to forced entry, particularly those with reinforced cores and laminated skins. While lighter than steel, their engineered construction still provides a durable barrier.

Solid wood doors

Solid wood doors provide moderate resistance to forced entry. High-quality engineered cores improve their strength, but wood is generally easier to breach than steel or reinforced fibreglass under significant force.

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Tip: When shopping for a new door, ask about impact resistance and laminated construction. These features make it more difficult for intruders to break through, while also improving energy performance.

Locking systems

Locks are the heart of a secure door, and new purchases should include hardware that meets or exceeds industry standards.

Grade 1 deadbolts

Look for locks certified by ANSI/BHMA. Grade 1 is the highest residential standard, tested to withstand significant force and repeated use. For a new door, a Grade 1 deadbolt should be a non-negotiable feature.

Multi-point locking systems

These systems secure the door at multiple points (top, middle, and bottom) with a single turn of the key or handle. By spreading force across the entire frame, multi-point locks make it extremely difficult for intruders to kick in a door. Many new Ottawa doors, especially fibreglass and premium steel models, offer this as a standard or optional upgrade.

Smart and keypad locks

Modern consumers value convenience as much as strength. Many new doors come prepped for smart lock integration. When choosing a door, ensure the hardware can support keyless entry systems while still including a robust mechanical backup.

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Tip: When purchasing a new door, discuss with the supplier which lock systems are included and what upgrades are available.

Reinforced frames & hardware

A secure lock requires a secure frame to be effective. When buying a new door, pay close attention to the frame and hardware package.

Steel or composite frames

These frames are far stronger than standard wood frames, offering excellent resistance to kick-ins. Many new door systems in Ottawa are now sold with steel-reinforced jambs as part of the package.

Reinforced strike plates

Premium doors often come with heavy-duty strike plates designed to distribute force into the surrounding wall structure. Confirm that these are included in the system.

Security hinges

If your new door swings outward, ask for hinges with non-removable pins or hinge bolts. Many Ottawa suppliers include these as standard, but it’s worth verifying.

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Tip: A strong door is only part of the picture. For full security and long-lasting performance, select a door package that includes reinforced frames, durable hinges, and quality strike plates. Together, these components form a complete system that performs reliably for years.

Secure glass options

Glass inserts are a popular design choice in Ottawa, but they can be a vulnerability unless properly engineered. New doors now integrate glass that enhances both style and security:

Laminated glass

Constructed with a plastic interlayer, laminated glass resists breakage. Even if shattered, it stays bonded, making it difficult to pass through.

Tempered glass

Much stronger than regular glass and designed to shatter into small, less dangerous pieces.

Decorative and triple-glazed units

Provide beauty and efficiency, with added thickness that increases resistance to intrusion.

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Tip: Decorative glass can add beauty and natural light, but not all glass is created equal. Ask whether the glass is laminated or tempered, which provides added resistance to breakage and increases safety for your family.

Safety features

Beyond intrusion resistance, modern doors also integrate features that improve overall household safety.

Fire-rated options

Particularly important for doors between garages and living spaces. These doors slow the spread of flames, meeting building code requirements.

Energy efficiency and weather resistance

In Ottawa’s climate, doors with insulated cores, thermal breaks, and advanced weatherstripping prevent warping and gaps, which can otherwise weaken security.

Accessibility and ease of use

Modern entrance doors can be designed for effortless operation by all household members, including children, seniors, or anyone with limited mobility. 

Lever handles are easier to operate than traditional round knobs, requiring minimal grip strength and a simple downward motion. 

Low-threshold designs reduce tripping hazards and allow smoother passage for wheelchairs or walkers. 

For emergencies, panic-release options enable doors to open quickly from the inside with a single motion, providing fast egress without fumbling with locks.

What buyers should look for

Purchasing a new door in Ottawa isn’t just about the door itself; it’s also about local expertise and durability in our climate.

Cold-weather performance

Choose doors specifically rated for northern climates. Fibreglass and insulated steel doors perform particularly well in Ottawa’s winters.

Multi-point lock availability

Many Ottawa suppliers now include multi-point locks in their premium offerings. Consider this feature as a long-term investment in security.

Warranties and certifications

Look for manufacturers offering strong product and installation warranties and locks certified by ANSI/BHMA standards. This ensures you’re buying a system tested for security and durability.

Professional installation

Even the most secure door will fail if poorly installed. Choose an Ottawa supplier or installer with experience in fitting reinforced frames and high-security hardware.

Balancing security, style, and convenience

Modern doors don’t force you to compromise. Today’s manufacturing allows for beautiful designs, decorative glass, and a wide range of finishes, all while delivering robust protection.

A fibreglass door with a multi-point lock and laminated glass insert offers both curb appeal and high-level security.

A steel door with a Grade 1 deadbolt and smart lock integration provides unbeatable strength with modern convenience.

Custom finishes and hardware packages ensure you don’t have to choose between style and safety.

Learn About Doors
Typical Lock Types

Learn About Doors Basic Locks

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Deadbolts

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Homeowners investing in a new entrance door, modern options provide the best of all worlds: robust security, long-lasting durability, and stylish design. From reinforced frames and laminated glass to multi-point locks and smart technology integration, today’s doors are engineered to keep your family safe without sacrificing convenience or curb appeal.

When choosing your next door, think of it not as a single product but as a complete security system. By focusing on construction, hardware, and professional installation, you’ll not only improve your home’s protection but also invest in lasting peace of mind.

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