Door Chains

Beeswax Door Chain, from our current range.

What is a door chain?

A door chain is a simple restrictor fitted to the inside face of a door, made up of a chain or sliding bar attached to a plate on the door and a slotted keep on the frame. It allows the door to be opened a short distance, enough to see and speak to a visitor, while still being held secure against being pushed fully open. Door chains are a low-cost, easily retrofitted security measure found on front doors across the UK.

Slide-bar restrictors work on the same principle as a traditional chain, but use a rigid bar rather than links, which some people find sturdier and easier to operate.

Where door chains are used

• Front doors – the most common location, giving an extra layer of security when answering the door to an unexpected visitor
• Rental and multi-occupancy properties – often specified by landlords as a low-cost security addition
• Alongside a door viewer – door chains are frequently fitted together with a door viewer for a simple, effective way to check who is calling

Choosing the right door chain

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Chain vs slide bar – both work on the same principle; a slide bar is generally considered more robust than a link chain
• Fixing screws – door chains rely on their fixing screws for strength, so use the longest screws the door and frame will accept
• Finish – door chains are available in finishes to match your other internal door furniture

Related products

Browse our current range of Security & Protection, or see the related categories in our Door Viewers guide and Locks & Security Guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is a door chain enough security on its own?

No, a door chain is a supplementary measure, not a substitute for a good quality main lock. It is best used alongside a door viewer, so you can identify a caller before opening the door at all.

Can a door chain be forced open?

A door chain will not withstand a determined, forceful attempt to break in, but it is effective at preventing a door being pushed open unexpectedly, giving you time to react.

Can I fit a door chain myself?

Yes, most door chains can be fitted with basic tools and come with fixing screws. Using the longest screws your door and frame can accept gives the strongest fixing.

Back to the Door Furniture Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.