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Installing door armor is a practical upgrade that enhances security and longevity of your entryway. The following guide provides a detailed walkthrough — from tools and preparation to post-installation checks — to help you complete the job with confidence. For those seeking a premium door option, consider the lineup from ARTY via Yihe Door Industry — they offer high-quality armored doors designed for modern homes.
Before beginning installation, ensure the site and materials are ready. Proper preparation saves time and prevents errors.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Tape measure & 2′ and 6′ levels | Verify dimensions and plumb of frame |
| Carpenter’s square | Check right angles for framing |
| Drill with appropriate bits (masonry/wood) | Fastening into wall or floor structure |
| #2 & #3 Phillips driver, ¼″ wrench | Installing screws and bolts |
| Caulk gun, foam backer rod as needed | Seal gaps around frame |
| Shims (plastic or wood) | Align and level the frame in the opening |
Clear the area around the door opening: remove trim, paint flaking, old weather-seal gaskets.
Inspect rough opening: it should be plumb, square and sized appropriately for the new door armor system.
Ensure floor threshold is level within tolerance (commonly up to 1⁄16″ variance).
Verify swing direction of the door (inswing or outswing) so you orient the armor correctly.
With the site ready and tools at hand, you can proceed with installing the armor frame and reinforcement pieces.
Insert the assembled frame (header, hinge jamb, strike jamb) into the rough opening. Use shims under the jambs if required to bring them to plumb and level.
Use the 2′ and 6′ levels to check both inside and outside faces of each jamb. Square the frame by measuring opposing corners (diagonal measurement difference should not exceed 1⁄16″).
Temporarily anchor the threshold (if applicable) and level it. Then anchor the jambs using specified bolts or screws according to the wall type (wood stud, steel stud, masonry).
Add the armor reinforcement components (lock-side plate, hinge-side jamb shield, strike-side shield) as specified by your kit or manufacturer instructions. These components provide increased resistance against forced entry.
Install the door leaf (if separate). Align the hinges and secure the door to the frame. Maintain a consistent clearance around the door leaf — a common target is 1⁄8″ between the door and frame.
Insert weather-seal into the kerf channels of the header, hinge jamb and strike jamb. Trim any excess. Then apply the door sweep across the bottom of the door leaf for a tight seal at the threshold.
Proper final-assembly and finishing steps ensure the system works smoothly and delivers long-term performance.
Install the lockset or deadbolt according to its manufacturer’s instructions. Align the strike plate with the reinforced strike-side shield and secure firmly.
Close the door and test the latch engagement. Adjust if required to ensure smooth operation without binding.
If gaps between the door and frame are uneven, use the provided adjustment mechanisms (e.g., set screws in hinge plates) to fine-tune alignment. These adjustments may shift the door slightly toward the hinge side or strike side to equalize clearances.
Once fit is confirmed, apply caulk around the interior and exterior edges of the frame where it meets the wall. For gaps wider than 3⁄16″, insert a backer-rod before caulking.
Open and close the door several times, listening and feeling for friction or misalignment.
Verify that the latch engages easily and that the door sits flush with the frame in the closed position.
Check the weather-seal and sweep for full contact and no visible gaps.
Ensure fasteners are tight but not over-torqued, which can distort the frame or door leaf.
Installing door armor is a long-term investment. Proper care will preserve the performance and aesthetic of your doorway.
Every 6 months: Lubricate hinges and the lock mechanism with a dry lubricant (avoid heavy oils that attract dust).
Annually: Inspect the weather-seal, sweep, and frame perimeter for signs of wear, gaps or water intrusion. Replace components as needed.
After severe weather or forced-entry attempts: Re-check alignment and fasteners; the frame may shift under extreme events.
Clean the door surface and armor plates with a mild detergent and soft cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners that may damage finishes.
For Exterior Doors with powder-coated or painted finishes, touch-up chips promptly to prevent corrosion.
If your door system includes a manufacturer-applied warranty, retain proof of installation and maintenance to preserve validity.
If you start with a standard door, you may consider upgrading to an armored door system designed for premium performance. For example, the ARTY door range offers reinforced cores, patented locking mechanisms and global logistics support.
Consider adding electronic access control, video doorbell integration or additional siderights/shields if your security needs evolve.
By following this structured approach — preparing the site, installing the frame and armor components, finishing with precision adjustments and long-term maintenance — you can confidently upgrade your door to a higher standard of security and durability. Choosing a high-quality door product such as those from ARTY ensures you start with strong materials and craftsmanship. With proper installation and care, your entryway will deliver peace of mind and performance for years to come.
