Can you put a door guard on a metal door?

Putting a door guard on a metal door is possible, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. Metal doors have some unique properties that require using the right type of door guard and installing it properly for the best security and protection.

What is a Door Guard?

A door guard, also known as a door stop or door wedge, is a device that is installed at the bottom of a door to prevent it from being opened all the way. Door guards come in a variety of styles, but they all serve the purpose of creating a physical blockade to keep the door from swinging open completely.

There are a few different types of door guards:

• Wedge style – These are triangular wedges that slide under the door. They are often made of rubber or plastic.
• Hinge style – These attach to the door hinge and prevent the door from opening past a certain angle.
• Bar style – These feature a long bar that slides across the door.
• Wall-mounted – These install on the baseboard trim and have a arm that swings out to block the door.

When selecting a door guard for a metal door, the wedge style or wall-mounted style tend to work best. The material needs to be sturdy enough to withstand force but not damage or scratch the metal door.

Benefits of Using a Door Guard on a Metal Door

There are a few reasons why installing a door guard on a metal door is beneficial:

• Increased security – A door guard makes it harder for an intruder to force their way inside. It creates an initial barrier and delays entry, giving the occupants extra reaction time.
• Fire safety – Door guards can help contain fire and smoke. They will keep the door from swinging open if sudden pressure changes occur during a fire.
• Privacy – A door guard prevents others from accidentally opening the door and keeps kids and pets out of restricted areas.
• Damages prevention – Door guards protect walls, door handles, and hinges by stopping the door before it hits these surfaces.

Door guards are an affordable and effective way to add an extra layer of protection on metal doors. The sturdy material of a metal door makes an ideal base for securely wedging a door guard in place.

Choosing an Appropriate Door Guard

When selecting a door guard for a metal door, you’ll want to choose an option that is:

• Made of durable material – Such as heavy-duty plastic, rubber, or metal to stand up to a metal door without cracking or bending.
• Designed not to damage the door – Avoid options with teeth or rough edges that could scratch or dent the door surface.
• Fits tight – The wedge should fit snugly without excessive movement or slipping that could impact effectiveness.
• Easy to install – Opt for a style that doesn’t require any drilling or hardware for simple setup and removal.

The most heavy duty and reliable door guards are made of metal or thick rubber. Plastic can work but may be more prone to breaking over time. Wall-mounted door guards offer the most security but require some installation work to screw them into place.

Best Door Guard Options for Metal Doors

Here are some of the best door guards to use for metal doors:

• Mace Door Stop Alarms – Sturdy rubber wedge contains an alarm that sounds if an intruder tries to dislodge it.
• Addalock – Portable metal bar that slots into the floor and door jamb without any installation needed.
• Master Lock Door Security Bar – Steel adjustable bar with anti-slip rubber ends that wedges between the door and floor.
• Ideal Security SK630 Door Lever Guard – Hardened steel guard that clamps onto lever style door handles.
• Defender Security Door Reinforcement Lock – Steel bracket with a bar that mounts into the floor and door jamb.

Always check that any door guard you choose is designed for metal doors and made of appropriate materials to avoid any damage.

Installing a Door Guard on a Metal Door

Putting on a door guard takes just a few simple steps:

1. Select the location. Most door guards are installed near the bottom middle of the door. Make sure there is enough clearance underneath the door for the stop to slide in.
2. Measure the door gap. Choose a door guard width that fits snugly into the space beneath the door. Allow 1/4 to 1/2 inch extra room so it can wedge tightly.
3. Slide the door guard into place. Angle it to fit under the door then kick or tap it flat so it sits vertically. The friction should hold it in place.
4. Test operation. Try opening the door slowly to check that the guard creates enough resistance. Adjust the positioning if needed.
5. Remove when not needed. Take the door guard out when opening the door to prevent tripping and damage.

Always make sure the door guard sits vertically and remains stable when the door is opened. Avoid angling it too far either way or it will not provide optimal strength.

Installation Tips

• Check for clearance under the door and a tight fit with the wedge before installation.
• Use guards made of softer materials like rubber to avoid scratching metal doors.
• Place removable guards like wedges on a mat or towel to prevent sliding on smooth floors.
• Make sure permanent guards like wall-mounted stops are securely screwed into studs.
• Test the door guard to ensure it works properly and creates enough resistance.

Using Door Guards Safely

While door guards provide valuable protection, they also need to be used properly to avoid potential risks:

• Always remove the door guard when opening the door from the inside to avoid tripping.
• Don’t use door guards on fire rated doors, as they can impair functioning.
• Make sure the door guard doesn’t create so much resistance that it becomes difficult to open the door in an emergency.
• Check that permanent guards allow the door to open at least 32 inches for emergency egress.
• Never use door guards as lock substitutes or on doors requiring locking for safety.

Door guards should only be installed on doors that otherwise operate smoothly and close properly. The added resistance should not impact normal opening or cause issues with latching.

Conclusion

Installing a door guard on a metal door is an easy and affordable way to improve security. Select a durable, metal-safe door guard that wedges tightly into place beneath the door. Position it properly so it stays vertical and doesn’t slip out of place. Always remove door guards when opening the door from inside and use them safely. With the right door guard installed correctly, you can give your metal door an extra layer of protection against intrusions.