Installing a Door Chain

By installing a door chain, you are allowing your door to be partially opened to see who is calling. This allows protection against unwanted callers who may try to enter your home. A chain attached to the door hooks into a slot on the doorframe when the door is closed. The only way to release the chain is by closing the door and unhooking it.

The strenght depends on the anchorage of the kit to the door and frame. There are a number of door chain kits available: a simple chain, a chain which can be unlocked from outside with a key, a chain combined with a sliding bolt, and a chain with an in-built alarm which is triggered when someone tries to enter. Using the longest, heavy gauged screws possible will increase security.

Fitting a Door Chain
Decide on the convenient height of the chain. Use the device as a template and mark the position of the screwholes on the inside of the door with a bradawl. Screw the device in place and then, using a bradawl, mark the position of the chain holder on the frame at the same height. Screw the chain holder ont the frame and check that the lock operates effectively.