How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the plentiful light it welcomes in and the convenient access it provides to your outdoor living space. These doorways are valuable elements of any Salem residence, but also pose safety risks. Discover why they’re targeted by burglars and what you can do to stop break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are often targeted in Salem

As sought-after as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also tempting to thieves. There are some explanations. First and foremost, they are commonly designed more for function than security. Many don’t utilize deadbolts, and their locking systems are usually simple to bypass. Burglars also have a a greater likelihood of approaching unseen as the doors are typically at the rear of your house. 

How do trespassers circumvent sliding doors?

When experiencing warm temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding patio door might be the most-utilized doorway at your house. You may a habit of leaving it unlatched so your children can access the yard easily. Even when you secure the door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Many sliding glass doors have basic locks that intruders can unlock with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Prowlers are more prone to smash glass when they’re out of sight. Some sliding doors have thin glass that’s not hard to smash.
• Pry the door from its track. Thieves may attempt to pop the door off of its track and yank it away from the frame using a crowbar or another implement so they may slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s not difficult to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to boost your security. Discover what your options are.

Better protect your Salem home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of the most vulnerable entrances in your Salem residence, here’s how to do so.

• Install security cameras. When prospective thieves notice video cameras at your property, they’ll probably find an easier target. They don’t want to take the chance of being captured on camera. You can even find video cameras that actively deter prowlers with sound and lights.
• Connect security sensors. Connect contact and glass break sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted guest attempts to come in or smash the window. Advanced systems will also alert you with communications to your home security smartphone app.
• Add a more secure lock. Complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are terrific add-ons and easy to secure. You could also incorporate a heavier-duty, key-operated deadbolt.
• Add a door brace. A door brace is a traditional method that provides an additional layer to your defense. These are traditionally solid wood supports fitted inside the door’s lower track. Make certain it’s measured properly for a snug fit.

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

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entrances with a fully connected smart home in Salem from Vivint. We have all the tools you need, from surveillance cameras to window and door sensors. If a device triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring agents will be alerted instantly. Reach out to (503) 994-1230 today to learn more and schedule your professional installation.