How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the abundance of sunlight it welcomes in and the effortless access it offers to your backyard. These entryways are beneficial aspects of any Greenville home, but also present security concerns. Discover why they’re targeted by intruders and what you can do to prevent intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are frequent targets in Greenville

As sought-after as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also attractive to intruders. There are some straightforward reasons why. Primarily, they are typically designed more for aesthetics than security. The majority don’t have deadbolts, and their locks are usually a cinch to bypass. Intruders also have a a greater likelihood of approaching unseen as the doors are typically at the back of your home. 

How do intruders force entry through sliding doors?

When experiencing warm temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding patio door may be the most-utilized doorway at your home. You may get in a habit of leaving it unlocked so kids can easily enter and exit to the outdoor area. Even if you secure the door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have standard locks that intruders can circumvent with a simple tool.
• Break the glass. Prowlers are more likely to break glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of countless sliding doors is not hard to shatter.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars might attempt to force the door off of its track and yank it away from the frame with a crowbar or another device so they can squeeze through.

Even though it’s not difficult to bypass sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to improve your security. Discover how you can do so.

Better protect your Greenville home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to boost the security of one of the most susceptible entryways in your Greenville home, here’s how to do so.

• Install video cameras. When would-be invaders spot surveillance around your house, they’ll most likely try to find a less secure target. They won’t want to take the chance of being captured on camera. You can even get video cameras that actively deter thieves with sound and lights.
• Integrate security sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will trigger if a burglar attempts to enter or break the glass. You’ll also be sent an alert through your home security mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Complement your standard flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular options and straightforward to operate. You might also incorporate a sturdy, keyed deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A security bar or brace is a traditional solution that brings an additional layer to your defense. These are traditionally metal or solid wood reinforcements fitted along the door’s bottom track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a secure fit.

Open the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Greenville

Better defend your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with a comprehensive smart home in Greenville from Vivint. We provide all the equipment you need, from window and door sensors to video cameras. If anything triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring agents will be informed immediately. Contact (252) 648-6502 today to learn more and arrange your professional installation.