Cheap vs Premium Security Door

 
 
 
 

Cheap vs Premium Security Doors: What Really Keeps Intruders Out

"Cheap security ain’t good. Good security ain’t cheap." — James Kerr, Founder of Boss Security Screens

You don't care about your door—until 12:42 AM, when your dog growls and you hear someone jiggle the handle. That’s when you’ll wish you picked strength over savings. This guide will show you exactly why cheap doors fail, what makes a door truly secure, and how to choose protection that actually holds up when it counts.

Who Is James Kerr?

James Kerr is a nationally recognized security expert and the founder of Boss Security Screens. A mechanical engineer and self-defense expert, James spent over two decades studying criminal behavior, home invasions, and violent entry methods. After seeing too many families suffer the trauma of break-ins, he built a company that does something about it. Under his leadership, Boss has installed over 16,000 security doors across the U.S.—with zero reported break-ins through a Boss door. James’s work has been featured on Fox News, Las Vegas Review-Journal, NBC 3 News, other media.

What Makes a Door Cheap?

Let’s be blunt: most "security" doors you find at big box stores are marketing illusions. They might look strong, but they break under pressure—within minutes.

Here’s what you’re getting with a bargain door:

  • Thin metal frames that can be kicked in and rust quickly

  • Single-point locks that pry open with a crowbar

  • Basic mesh or decorative grilles that snap under stress

  • Weak installation that leaves gaps and vulnerable hinges

According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, 57.5% of burglaries involve forcible entry, and most occur in under 8–10 minutes. (Source: FBI, Crime in the United States Report)

Cheap doors give intruders the green - and familiar!- light.

Watch this amazing video of us breaching the standard Home Depot security door within minutes. Also, read some of the reviews on HD website about the rust within 3 weeks.

It’s no wonder the rust is not covered by the warranty. The warranty itself is only for 1 year! Are you so rich as to buy a new security door every year?

How much does the cheap door cost?

On Home Depot website, the door is listed at $368. You’ll also need a lock and handle set for $42 and seal kit for $72. Installation will cost you approximately $500-$1,500. All in all, including sales tax and materials, you’re looking at between $1,000 and $2,500. Quite a bit for something that can be breached in 2 minutes.

What is a premium security door?

A premium security door will have these elements:

  • 12x12” woven stainless steel mesh preferably US-made, 0.035” wire

  • powder-coated, anodized, rust-proof aircraft-grade aluminum frame

  • premium 3-point security locks

  • professional installation by a certified Master Installer

  • 15-year warranty from the dealer covering parts and materials

  • modern design and custom color matching property design and increase its value

How much does the Premium security door cost?

Fully installed, the premium security door should cost you between $2,500 and $3,500 depending on the size and color. As you can see, not that much more expensive than a cheap door. If you’re ready to get yours today, give us a call at (702) 637-0255. Or request a free quote for security door here.