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Entry Hardening Order: Structure Before Electronics

Updated October 11, 2026

The order that stops kick-ins

Most forced entries attack the frame, not the lock. Harden in the order that matters: full 1-in deadbolt throw on every entry, 3-in strike screws driven into the stud, lighting on every dark entry, then hinges and glass film. Electronics come last.

Score before spending

Count doors with real deadbolts and stud-bitten screws, then subtract for hollow doors, glass sliders, and dark entries. A negative score means structure first: door, frame, strike, and light. A passing score means maintaining lighting and hinges, not buying gadgets.

Mailboxes have rules too

Cluster and apartment boxes are controlled by the postal service or the building manager. Do not buy DIY parts for them. Standalone and wall boxes take a 5-pin cam lock matched to cam length, plus a repair plate when the hole is damaged.

A smart lock is not hardening

Remote codes and logs add convenience on top of a sound door. On a hollow-core door with a short strike, they add theater. Budget about $85 per scheduled fix and work the list in order.