How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the abundance of light it lets in and the effortless access it delivers to your backyard. These entryways are valuable aspects of any Duluth property, but also come with security risks. See why they’re targeted by theives and what you can do to stop intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are commonly targeted in Duluth

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also attractive to burglars. There are a few reasons why. Primarily, they are typically made more for aesthetics than security. Many don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are usually simple to bypass. Intruders also have a better chance of approaching without being seen as the doors are typically at the rear of your residence. 

How do trespassers circumvent sliding doors?

When you have nice temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding glass door might be the most-utilized entryway at your home. You might develop a routine of keeping it open so your little ones can readily enter and exit to the backyard. Even when you secure the door, determined prowlers can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that intruders can force open with a simple tool.
• Shatter the glass. Thieves are more likely to smash glass when they’re concealed from view. Countless sliding doors use thin glass that’s not difficult to break.
• Pry the door from its track. Burglars could attempt to pop the door out of its track and yank it away from the frame using a crowbar or another tool so they can fit through.

Even though it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to boost your security. See what your options are.

Better defend your Duluth home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of the most at-risk entrances in your Duluth residence, here’s how to do so.

• Incorporate security cameras. When prospective intruders notice video cameras, they’ll likely try to find a less protected target. They won’t want to risk being caught on camera. You can even choose surveillance systems that actively discourage lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect door sensors. Incorporate glass break and contact sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will go off if a burglar starts to enter or break the window. You’ll also be sent a notification through your home security mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Complement your basic flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic solutions and simple to use. You could also get a more robust, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a security bar. A security bar or brace is a traditional solution that provides another layer to your protection. These are typically metal or solid wood supports positioned within the lower door track. Make sure it’s designed properly for a secure fit.

Unlock the door to better security with a Vivint smart home in Duluth

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all your home’s entrances with an integrated smart home in Duluth from Vivint. We provide all the tools you need, from window and door sensors to surveillance cameras. If something trips, you and your 24-7 monitoring agents will be notified immediately. Call (218) 585-7945 today to learn more and book your professional installation.