How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the easy access it provides to your outdoor living space and the bounty of daylight it welcomes in. These doorways are desirable elements of any Erie property, but also present security risks. Discover why they’re a target for theives and what you should do to stop intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Erie

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also attractive to thieves. There are a few simple reasons why. First and foremost, they are commonly designed more for utility than security. The majority don’t have deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are usually easy to circumvent. Burglars also have a greater opportunity of approaching without being seen as the doors are located at the back of your home. 

How do trespassers bypass sliding doors?

When experiencing pleasant temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding door might be the most-frequented entryway at your house. You could a routine of leaving it unlatched so your children can effortlessly access the backyard. Even when you secure the door, determined prowlers can circumvent it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have basic locks that housebreakers can force open with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Home invaders are more likely to shatter glass when they’re out of sight. Some sliding doors use thin glass that’s not hard to break.
• Force the door from its track. Thieves may try to force the door out of its track and yank it away from the frame with a crowbar or other tools so they are able to fit through.

Even though it’s not difficult to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to step up your security. See what you can do.

Better secure your Erie home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to enhance the security of one of the most vulnerable entryways in your Erie house, here’s how you can do it.

• Implement video cameras. When would-be thieves see surveillance at your property, they’ll probably find a less protected target. They never want to take the chance of being caught on camera. You can even choose surveillance systems that actively deter lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect entrypoint sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will sound if an unwanted guest tries to enter or break the glass. You’ll also get an alert through your security system’s mobile app.
• Upgrade the lock. Complement your basic flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic options and easy to secure. You can also choose a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A security bar is a time-tested approach that adds another layer to your security. These are often solid wood supports placed along the door’s lower track. Ensure it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

Open the door to better security with a Vivint smart home in Erie

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all the entryways in your home with an integrated smart home in Erie from Vivint. We provide all the devices you need, from video cameras to door and window sensors. If a device activates, you and your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be alerted right away. Call (814) 992-4902 today to find out more and arrange your professional installation.