How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the plentiful sunlight it lets in and the easy access it offers to your outdoor living space. These entrances are beneficial features for any Springfield home, but also present security concerns. See why they’re a target for theives and what you might do to avoid break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Springfield

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also attractive to intruders. There are some straightforward reasons why. First and foremost, they are generally designed more for function than security. Many don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are typically easy to circumvent. They’re also placed at the rear of your Springfield residence, giving burglars a better chance to approach undetected. 

How do trespassers force entry through sliding doors?

When you have bright and sunny days and nice temperatures, your sliding glass door may be the most-utilized entry at your home. You might get in a pattern of keeping it open so your little ones can readily access the backyard. Even if you secure the door, burglars can get around it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Many sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that burglars can unlock with a simple tool.
• Smash the glass. Home invaders are more prone to smash glass when they’re hidden from sight. Countless sliding doors use thin glass that’s not hard to smash.
• Pry the door from its track. Burglars might attempt to force the door off of its track and pull it away from the frame with a crowbar or other tools so they are able to squeeze through.

Although it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to step up your security. See how you can do so.

Better secure your Springfield home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to boost the security of one of your Springfield home’s most vulnerable doors, here’s how to do so.

• Incorporate surveillance cameras. When prospective intruders spot video cameras, they’ll likely find a less secure target. They won’t want to take the chance of being recorded on camera. You can even find surveillance tools that actively deter thieves with lights and sound.
• Connect door sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted guest starts to come in or smash the glass. You’ll also be sent an alert through your security system’s cell phone app.
• Add a more secure lock. Replace or complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic solutions and simple to secure. You can also choose a heavier-duty, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a security bar. A door brace is a simple solution that brings an additional layer to your protection. These are typically solid wood supports fitted inside the lower door track. Ensure it’s designed properly for a secure fit.

Unlock the door to a new level of security with a Vivint smart home in Springfield

Better defend your sliding glass door and all your home’s entryways with a comprehensive smart home in Springfield from Vivint. We have all the devices you need, from window and door sensors to video cameras. If something triggers, you and your 24-7 monitoring experts will be notified right away. Call (217) 627-6647 today to learn more and schedule your professional installation.