August Door Reinforcement Kit Review

Who is the August Door Reinforcement Kit for?

This kit is designed specifically for owners of August Smart Locks (including the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, August Smart Lock Pro, and August Smart Lock 4th Generation). The standard strike plate that comes with most doors is often made of thin brass or aluminum and is secured with short screws. This creates a vulnerability where a strong kick can splinter the door frame and force the deadbolt out of the strike hole.

The August Door Reinforcement Kit replaces that weak link with a heavy-duty stainless steel plate and longer, 3-inch screws that anchor deep into the door frame and the wall stud. This makes it ideal for renters who cannot replace the entire door or homeowners who want a simple, effective security boost without a full lock replacement.

Performance and Build Quality

The kit is constructed from thick, corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Aggregated owner reviews from major retailers consistently rate the build quality highly, with many noting the substantial weight of the plate compared to the original. The finish is a brushed nickel that blends well with most standard door hardware.

In terms of performance, the primary benefit is the increased resistance to kick-in attacks. The longer screws are the key differentiator. Standard strike plates use screws that are typically 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch long, which only grip the door frame. The 3-inch screws in this kit penetrate through the frame and into the wall stud, distributing the force of a kick across a much wider area. Owner reports and security analyses suggest this can increase the door's resistance to forced entry by a significant margin.

Installation is straightforward. You remove the two screws from your existing strike plate, position the new plate, and drive in the two long screws. Most users report completing the job in under 10 minutes with just a Phillips head screwdriver. No drilling or additional hardware is required.

Alternatives to the August Door Reinforcement Kit

For those without an August Smart Lock, or who want a more comprehensive solution, there are alternatives. The Prime-Line Products U 9884 is a universal door jamb reinforcement plate that works with any standard deadbolt, but it is not as sleek or specifically tailored to the August lock's dimensions. For a full door security system, a product like the Door Armor MAX kit reinforces the entire door frame, including the hinges and the strike area, offering the highest level of protection but requiring a more involved installation and a higher cost.

Another option is simply replacing the screws on your existing strike plate with longer, 3-inch screws. This is a very low-cost hack that provides a good portion of the benefit, though it does not replace the thin metal plate itself. The August kit offers the best balance of simplicity, aesthetics, and performance for August lock owners.

What to check before buying

Before purchasing, verify that you own an August Smart Lock. The kit is not compatible with other smart lock brands or traditional deadbolts. Also, check the condition of your door frame. If the wood is rotted or severely damaged, the longer screws will not hold effectively and the frame itself may need to be repaired or replaced first. Finally, ensure you have a Phillips head screwdriver on hand for installation.

Mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is not tightening the screws fully. The screws need to be driven in completely so the plate sits flush against the door frame. Another mistake is assuming this kit protects against all types of break-ins. It is specifically designed to resist kick-in attacks. It does not protect against lock picking, bumping, or glass breakage. For a complete security strategy, it should be used in conjunction with a quality deadbolt and reinforced hinges.