I know from personal experience that burglars and vandals have a field day when they come across an exterior door unprotected by a deadbolt.

Dear James: We would like to install a new classy real stained wood front door. I would like an attractive, secure lockset to go with it, but there are so many to choose from. Which are best ...

Install a strike box. A strike box strengthens the deadbolt by spreading the impact of a forced entry over a wider area and by helping tie the strike to the 2×4 frame, not just the jamb.

Question: We would like to install a new classy real stained wood front door. I would like an attractive, secure lockset to go with it, but there are so many to choose from. Which are best? Answer:… ...

When you have deadbolt installation done in your home, you should avoid taking the DIY approach and hire a reputable locksmith to get the job done instead.