How to Lock French Doors Interior

French doors are a great way to add style and charm to any room. However, if you want to ensure your safety and security, it is important that you know how to lock french doors interior. Keep reading for tips on ensuring your French doors remain secure even when locked from the inside.

How to Lock French Doors Interior

Can You Lock the French Doors Interior?

French doors can be a beautiful addition to any home; they let in more natural light and provide an extra door for quick exits. But when you have large windows that offer a view into your home, you may want the extra security of locking the French doors on the interior.

Fortunately, there are ways to lock these doors even though they don’t have the standard locks found in regular entryways. For example, installing sliding locks or privacy bolts keep the doors closed but allows access from the inside.

If you have smaller children in your home and want added security, installing a keyable deadbolt is an effective way of preventing little hands from opening them and letting themselves out.

Whatever solution you choose for locking your French door’s interior, ensuring it is secure enough for your needs, will help give everyone peace of mind.

Why Should You Lock French Doors Interior?

French doors are beloved for their beauty and charm, but that does not mean they can be forgotten about when it comes to security. Locking the interior side of such doors gives homeowners an extra layer of home protection. Doing so also ensures that children or pets are unable to wander outside without supervision.

An interior lock can be an unobtrusive addition, too—consider looking for models with a simple thumb latch or hidden lever-based lock. Not only will users gain peace of mind knowing the doors are securely locked, but they will also not have to sacrifice design in favor of safety.

Different Types of Locks

French doors can be secured using a variety of locks, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are three common types of locks used for French doors interior:

  1. Deadbolts: Deadbolts are a type of lock that provides high security and are often used with a handle lock. They have a bolt that extends into the door frame when locked, making them difficult to force open. Deadbolts can be either single-cylinder or double-cylinder. Single-cylinder deadbolts can be opened from the inside with a turn-knob or thumb turn, while double-cylinder deadbolts require a key on both sides. Double-cylinder deadbolts provide an extra level of security but can be a safety hazard in an emergency. Therefore, it is recommended to use a single-cylinder deadbolt on interior French doors.
  2. Mortise locks: Mortise locks are a type of lock set inside the door itself, often used in older or traditional-style French doors. They can have a deadbolt or latch bolt that extends into the door frame, and they can be operated with a key or a thumb turn. Mortise locks provide a high level of security and are usually more aesthetically pleasing than surface-mounted locks. However, they require a larger hole in the door for installation and are more difficult to install than surface-mounted locks.
  3. Surface-mounted locks: Surface-mounted locks are a type of lock that is mounted on the surface of the door rather than inside the door. They are easy to install and do not require any modifications to the door itself. Surface-mounted locks can have either a deadbolt or latch bolt that extends into the door frame and can be operated with a key or a thumb turn. However, surface-mounted locks are generally less secure than mortise or deadbolt locks and may not be as aesthetically pleasing.

When selecting a lock for a French door interior, it’s essential to consider factors such as security, ease of installation, and aesthetics. Deadbolts and mortise locks are typically the most secure options, but they may require more installation effort and may not be as visually appealing as surface-mounted locks. Surface-mounted locks are easy to install and offer a more streamlined look, but they may not provide the same level of security as other types of locks. Ultimately, the best lock for the interior of your French door will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

7 Ways to Follow on How to Lock French Doors Interior

1. Using a Deadbolt

One of the best ways to lock French doors interior is by using a deadbolt. Deadbolts are simple and effective locking mechanisms that provide an extra layer of security when used on French doors.

Using a Deadbolt

The key advantage of using a deadbolt is that it cannot be picked or bumped open like other types of locks can be. This means that if someone tried to force their way through your door, they would have no luck if you had installed a deadbolt.

2. Interior Slide Bolt

Another option for securing your French doors from the inside is by installing an interior slide bolt.

Slide bolts are similar to deadbolts in that they provide an extra layer of security; however, instead of being locked with a key, they are simply slid into place, making them easier and more convenient than traditional locksets.

Plus, since slide bolts come in various styles and finishes, you’re sure to find one that fits your aesthetic and security needs.

3. Locking Door Knob/Handle Set

A locking door knob or handle set is another way to lock French doors from the inside securely. This type of lock has two knobs or handles, one on each side of the door, that are connected by a latch mechanism. When both handles are rotated simultaneously, the latch is engaged, locking the door in place.

4. Window Locks

If you have windows on your French doors, one option for securing them from the inside is by using window locks. Window locks are easy to install and come in various styles, such as key, sliding, or rotary models. Additionally, some window locks come with alarm systems that are triggered when the window is forced open.

5. Security Strips and Bars

Another way to secure French doors from the inside is by using security strips or bars. Security strips or bars fit across the width of a door, creating an extra barrier between you and any potential intruders. Most security strips and bars can be easily installed and removed, making them a great option for temporary security.

6. Door Chain Lock

A door chain lock is another popular way to secure French doors from the inside. A door chain lock consists of a metal chain that is attached to the door frame and connected to a latch on the door itself.

When the door is opened, the chain only allows it to open a few inches, creating an extra barrier that stops anyone from entering your space.

7. Door Guard or Door Jammer

Finally, if you are looking for another way to secure your French doors from the inside, you can consider installing a door guard or door jammer. These devices are placed at the bottom of the door and provide a secure locking mechanism that cannot be forced open from the outside.

Installing a Door Guard

Additionally, some door guards and jammers come with alarm systems that can be triggered when someone attempts to force their way through your door.

That’s it! You’ve now learned how to lock French doors interior with seven different options. Utilize one, two, or all of these methods to keep your home and family safe.

Things You Need to Know Before Locking French Doors Interior

Before you lock interior French doors, there are some important points to consider. First and foremost, French doors add a decorative touch to any room. But if the fit isn’t precise or the frame is not securely mounted, they can be easily forced open.

When installing a lock on a French door set, you must ensure the hardware can withstand tension from being pulled apart. If this isn’t taken into account correctly, it could lead to problems with air infiltration or water penetration.

Additionally, potential burglars can easily discover many interior French door locks, so investing in security locks is highly recommended for increased safety. So before you lock up your interior French doors, be sure to invest in quality construction and select an appropriately secure locking system for peace of mind.

Benefits of Locking French Doors Interior

Installing a locking French door interior can give you enhanced security and peace of mind for your home. Not only does it provide physical protection against intruders, but it also allows for additional control over the airflow throughout the house.

By having the ability to lock from both sides, these doors are an ideal way to reserve access to certain rooms within your home—perfect for when you need privacy or even just some extra humidity control in your bathroom. Thanks to the aesthetics of French doors, they also bring that classic elegance while still providing the effective security you need.

6 Common Mistakes People Make When Trying to Lock French Doors Interior

1. Not Measuring the Doorway Properly

One of the most common mistakes people make when installing a locking French door is not measuring the doorway properly. Therefore, it is important to take accurate measurements of the doorway’s width and height before purchasing a door, as this will ensure that the door will fit properly.

Accurate Measurements of the Doorway's Width

2. Not Installing the Latch Correctly

Another common mistake is not installing the latch correctly. The latch keeps the door closed, so it is important to install it correctly. If the latch is not installed correctly, the door may not close properly or may even open on its own.

3. Not Leveling the Door

Another mistake that is often made when installing a locking French door is not leveling the door. The door needs to be level for it to close and latch properly. If the door is not level, it may not close correctly or may even pop open on its own.

4. Forgetting to Install the Strike Plate

The strike plate is what keeps the door locked when it is closed. It is important to ensure that the strike plate is installed correctly, as forgetting to install it can cause the door to be unable to lock properly.

5. Not Installing the Deadbolt Correctly

The deadbolt is another important part of a locking French door, and it is important to ensure that it is installed correctly. If the deadbolt is not installed correctly, it may not work properly or may even pop open on its own.

The Deadbolt is Another Important Part

6. Not Following Instructions Carefully

One of the most common mistakes people make when installing a locking French door is not following instructions carefully. It is important to read and follow all instructions carefully to avoid making any mistakes during the installation.

Smart Locks For French Door

Smart locks for French doors are becoming increasingly popular in the home security market. They provide convenience, reliability, and peace of mind that traditional locks alone cannot provide.

Smart locks combine keyless access with traditional methods such as metal keys, allowing you to control who has access to your home without compromising on security.

With features like wireless unlocking, auto locking and unlocking at specific times, and even remote monitoring, these smart locks enable homeowners to easily control their doors’ access while keeping intruders out.

Whether you’re looking for added peace of mind or seeking greater flexibility in entryway management, a smart lock for your French door is an excellent investment.

Conclusion

No matter which method you choose for locking french doors interior, it is important that you take measures to ensure your safety and security at all times. Deadbolts, slide bolts, and double-sided keyless entry systems are all great options for keeping your French doors secure from the inside while allowing easy access when needed.

With just a few simple steps, you can ensure that your home remains safe and secure no matter what! Thanks for reading our post about how to lock french doors interior.

Leave a Comment