How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the effortless access it creates to your backyard and the bounty of natural light it welcomes in. These entrances are desirable elements of any New Brunswick home, but also come with security concerns. Learn why they’re preferred by theives and what you should do to avoid break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in New Brunswick

As sought-after as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also tempting to intruders. There are a couple of simple explanations. First and foremost, they are generally constructed more for function than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locks are typically a cinch to manipulate. Intruders also have a greater opportunity of approaching without being seen as the doors are found at the rear of your home. 

How do trespassers force entry through sliding doors?

When you have sunny days and pleasant temperatures, your sliding patio door may be the most-used doorway at your home. You could fall into a routine of leaving it unlatched so your children can access the yard easily. Even when you fasten the door, determined intruders can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have basic locks that housebreakers can circumvent with a simple tool.
• Shatter the glass. Prowlers are more likely to break glass when they’re out of sight. Some sliding doors include thin glass that’s not hard to break.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars could attempt to pry the door off of its track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or another tool so they are able to slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s not difficult to circumvent sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to step up your security. Learn what your options are.

Better defend your New Brunswick home’s sliding glass door

If you want to boost the security of one of the most at-risk doors in your New Brunswick house, here’s how you can do it.

• Implement security cameras. When would-be invaders notice video cameras, they’ll most likely try to find an easier target. They never want to take the chance of being caught on camera. You can even find video cameras that actively deter prowlers with sound and lights.
• Use door sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted visitor attempts to come in or break the glass. You’ll also get a notification through your security system’s mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Reinforce your standard flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular solutions and simple to use. You might also get a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A door brace is a traditional method that provides one more layer to your defense. These are traditionally solid wood supports positioned within the lower door track. Make certain it’s measured properly for a tight fit.

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

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with a fully connected smart home in New Brunswick from Vivint. We offer all the tools you need, from window and door sensors to indoor and outdoor cameras. If a device triggers, you and your round-the-clock monitoring agents will be informed immediately. Contact (732) 607-4656 today to get more information and schedule your professional installation.