How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the plentiful light it brings in and the easy access it provides to your backyard retreat. These entrances are desirable elements of any Syracuse residence, but also pose safety risks. Learn why they’re targeted by theives and what you can do to avoid unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are commonly targeted in Syracuse

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also tempting to thieves. There are a few straightforward explanations. Primarily, they are typically constructed more for function than security. The majority don’t utilize deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are often simple to circumvent. They’re also installed at the back of your Syracuse home, giving intruders a better chance to approach unseen. 

How do burglars circumvent sliding doors?

When experiencing warm temperatures and lovely days, your sliding patio door may be the most-utilized entryway at your house. You might a habit of keeping it open so kids can access the backyard on their own accord. Even if you secure the door, determined prowlers can get around it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that housebreakers can circumvent with a simple tool.
• Shatter the glass. Home invaders are more likely to smash glass when they’re out of sight. Some sliding doors include thin glass that’s not hard to break.
• Pry the door from its track. Thieves could try to force the door off of its track and move it away from the frame with a crowbar or other devices so they can slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s not difficult to circumvent sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to step up your security. See what you can do.

Better protect your Syracuse home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of your Syracuse property’s most susceptible entrances, here’s how to do so.

• Install video cameras. When prospective intruders spot video cameras, they’ll most likely try to find an easier target. They never want to risk being recorded on camera. You can even choose video cameras that actively deter lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect security sensors. Incorporate glass break and contact sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will go off if a burglar starts to enter or break the glass. You’ll also get a notification through your home security mobile app.
• Upgrade the lock. Reinforce your standard flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic solutions and easy to use. You can also incorporate a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Add a door brace. A security bar or brace is a time-tested method that brings another layer to your security. These are typically metal or solid wood supports fitted along the door’s bottom track. Make certain it’s measured properly for a secure fit.

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

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all the entrances in your home with a fully connected smart home in Syracuse from Vivint. We provide all the tools you need, from cameras to door and window sensors. If something triggers, you and your 24-7 monitoring specialists will be informed instantly. Call (315) 971-4719 today to get more information and arrange your professional installation.