When it comes to our homes, we often focus on the kitchen, the garden, or maybe even the bathroom tiles—but how often do we really think about our front door?

For many, the front door is just a functional necessity: something to keep the weather out and the pets in. But as it turns out, your front door is much more than that.

It’s the first thing visitors (and potential buyers) see, it’s your home’s first line of defence, and—thanks to a worrying new social media trend—it could be at risk of serious damage.

Let’s talk about this viral trend that’s causing a stir overseas and could easily make its way to our shores.

In the US, a so-called 'door-kicking' prank has been making the rounds on social media.

The premise is simple: pranksters sneak up to someone’s house in the middle of the night and give the front door a mighty kick, all while filming the chaos for social media likes.

While it might sound like a harmless bit of fun, the reality is far from it. Homeowners are left startled, sometimes frightened, and often facing expensive repairs to their doors and frames.

A risky social media 'door-kicking' trend, where pranksters kick and pound on front doors at night, is causing costly repairs and raising safety concerns for homeowners. Image source: Francesca Tosolini / Unsplash. Disclaimer: This is a stock image used for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual person, item, or event described.

Why does this matter to us here in Australia? Well, trends have a way of crossing oceans—especially when they go viral online.

And even if the prank itself doesn’t catch on, it’s a timely reminder of just how important your front door really is.

Your front door isn’t just a barrier; it’s a statement. Real estate experts say that a high-quality, attractive front door can boost your home’s marketability by 5 to 10 per cent. That’s a significant chunk of change, especially if you’re thinking about selling.

A sturdy, well-maintained door suggests to buyers that the rest of the house is just as well cared for. It’s the handshake before the open house, the smile before the tour.

Beyond aesthetics, your front door is your home’s first line of defence—against both the elements and unwanted visitors.

A flimsy or poorly maintained door is an open invitation to trouble, whether it’s a cheeky social media prankster or something more sinister.

Source: Good Morning America / Youtube.​

And with insurance companies starting to factor in security upgrades when calculating premiums, a strong front door could even save you money in the long run.

Not all doors are created equal. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular options:

• Fibreglass: These doors are the quiet achievers of the front door world. They look like wood but don’t warp, swell, or rot. They’re tough, energy-efficient, and require very little maintenance. While they can be pricier upfront, their longevity and low upkeep make them a smart investment.
• Steel: If security is your top priority, steel doors are hard to beat. They’re incredibly strong and resistant to forced entry. However, they can be prone to dents and scratches, and if the paint chips, rust can set in. Still, for peace of mind, they’re a solid choice.
• Solid Wood: There’s nothing quite like the warmth and character of a timber door. They can be stained or painted to suit your style, and they add a touch of classic charm. The downside? They need regular maintenance to keep them looking their best and to prevent warping or weather damage.

If you’re looking to beef up your front door’s security (and maybe even its kerb appeal), there are a few simple upgrades to consider:

• Steel Reinforcement: Adding a steel plate or reinforcing the frame can make it much harder for anyone to kick the door in—prankster or otherwise.
• Deadbolts and Strike Plates: A quality deadbolt and a longer strike plate with extra-long screws can dramatically improve your door’s resistance to forced entry.
• Smart Locks and Video Doorbells: These gadgets aren’t just for tech-heads. Smart locks let you control access remotely, while video doorbells can deter would-be pranksters and give you peace of mind.
• Security Cameras: Even a visible camera can be enough to make troublemakers think twice.

Read more: Experts reveal simple tricks homeowners use to outsmart burglars amid break-in surge

Key Takeaways

• A risky social media 'door-kicking' trend, where pranksters kick and pound on front doors at night, is causing costly repairs and raising safety concerns for homeowners.
• The choice of front door material—fibreglass, steel, or solid wood—greatly impacts security, durability, and ongoing maintenance, with fibreglass and steel offering the most resilience.
• Security upgrades such as steel-reinforced doors, longer strike screws, smart locks, and video doorbells not only deter crime and pranks but can also increase your home’s marketability and sale speed.
• Investing in a high-quality, secure front door adds significant value, with benefits including higher resale price, lower insurance premiums, and increased appeal to tech-savvy younger buyers.

So, members, have you ever had a close call with a prankster or a break-in? Have you upgraded your front door recently, or are you thinking about it now? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and questions in the comments below!

 

[Nevertiki]

Most Australian houses have security flyscreen doors as well as fancy timber. The above article appears to be for US homes.