How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the plentiful light it brings in and the convenient access it delivers to your backyard. These entryways are valuable aspects of any Lakeland property, but also present security concerns. Learn why they’re preferred by intruders and what you can do to prevent intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Lakeland

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also tempting to burglars. There are some straightforward reasons why. To begin with, they are typically constructed more for utility than security. Most don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are often a cinch to bypass. Burglars also have a better chance of approaching without being seen as the doors are located at the back of your home. 

How do trespassers bypass sliding doors?

During warm temperatures and sunny days, your sliding door may be the most-utilized entryway in your home. You may get in a habit of keeping it unlatched so your children can access the yard easily. Even when you secure the door, determined prowlers can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have standard locks that burglars can circumvent with a simple tool.
• Break the glass. Thieves are more prone to smash glass when they’re concealed from view. Some sliding doors use thin glass that’s not hard to shatter.
• Force the door from its track. Criminals may try to pop the door off the track and yank it away from the frame with a crowbar or other equipment so they can slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to boost your security. See how you can make it happen.

Better protect your Lakeland home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of the most vulnerable entryways in your Lakeland residence, here’s how you can do it.

• Implement surveillance cameras. When potential thieves spot video cameras around your house, they’ll most likely find a less protected target. They don’t want to risk being recorded on camera. You can even choose surveillance tools that actively deter lurkers with sound and lights.
• Use entrypoint sensors. Install glass break and contact sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will sound if a burglar tries to enter or smash the window. Modern systems will also alert you with alerts to your security system’s mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Replace or complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic options and straightforward to operate. You can also incorporate a more robust, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a security bar. A security bar or brace is a time-tested solution that adds an additional layer to your protection. These are traditionally metal or solid wood supports positioned within the door’s bottom track. Ensure it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

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

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entryways with an integrated smart home in Lakeland from Vivint. We provide all the equipment you need, from surveillance cameras to door and window sensors. If something trips, you and your 24-hour monitoring agents will be notified immediately. Contact (863) 591-5048 today to get more information and arrange your professional installation.