Home safety concerns focus a lot on the toughness and endurance of deadbolt locks. However, an often overlooked yet critical component in securing a door is the strike. While major manufacturers have long emphasized the robustness of their deadbolt locks, the evolution of door strikes has opened up new opportunities to enhance overall security by reinforcing the door jamb.
Standard Strike
The standard strike, measuring 1″ x 2 1/4″, has been a traditional component in home security. Furnished with two #8 – 3/4″ wood screws, this strike provides moderate security, albeit limited by the strength of the door jamb. While it serves its purpose, it offers only a restricted degree of jamb reinforcement.
Security Strike
The introduction of the security strike marked a significant shift towards reinforcing the door jamb. With dimensions of 1 1/4″ x 3 5/8″ and a heavier gauge steel, this strike comes with four screws – two #10 – 2 1/2″ and two #10 – 1 1/2″. The longer screws penetrate the jamb and anchor the strike to the building, providing a substantial enhancement in jamb reinforcement.
Small Format Security Strike
Another noteworthy development is the small format security strike, which also utilizes four screws. With dimensions of 1 1/8″ x 2 3/4″ and made of heavy gauge steel, this strike is equipped with two #10 – 3″ screws and two #8 – 3/4″ screws. The longer screws ensure anchoring of the strike, particularly in cases where the jamb is up to 1 1/2″ from the studs.
Security Reinforcer and Strike Plate Combination
In addition to the aforementioned strikes, the security reinforcer and strike plate combination offer a comprehensive approach to door security. This combination, utilizing four screws, consists of a standard 1 1/8″ x 2 3/4″ brass strike accompanied by a 1/8″ steel reinforcer and two 3/16″ x 3″ screws on the stop side of the strike. The inclusion of a reinforcer further enhances the overall strength and security of the door, particularly when reinforcing or repairing a broken jamb.
The evolution of door strikes has seen a significant shift towards reinforcing door jambs and enhancing overall home security. With the advent of security strikes and reinforcers, homeowners now have access to a range of options to fortify their entry points, providing peace of mind and a heightened sense of security for their homes and families.
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