How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the convenient access it provides to your outdoor living space and the bounty of daylight it welcomes in. These entryways are beneficial aspects of any Utica home, but also come with safety risks. See why they’re a target for intruders and what you can do to stop intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are commonly targeted in Utica

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also tempting to intruders. There are some simple reasons why. To begin with, they are generally constructed more for function than security. Most don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are usually simple to manipulate. Burglars also have a a greater likelihood of approaching unseen as the doors are found at the rear of your home. 

How do burglars bypass sliding doors?

When experiencing nice temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding door could be the most-frequented entryway at your home. You may a habit of keeping it unlatched so your little ones can go back and forth to your outdoor space easily. Even when you fasten the door, determined prowlers can circumvent it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have basic locks that intruders can unlock with a simple tool.
• Break the glass. Home invaders are more prone to smash glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of countless sliding doors is not difficult to break.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars might attempt to pry the door out of its track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or other equipment so they are able to slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s easy to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to step up your security. Learn what your options are.

Better defend your Utica home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of the most vulnerable doors in your Utica house, here’s how you can.

• Install video cameras. When would-be intruders spot cameras around your house, they’ll probably try to locate a less protected target. They won’t want to take the chance of being recorded on camera. You can even find video cameras that actively scare off thieves with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect door sensors. Incorporate glass break and contact sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will sound if an unwanted guest starts to come in or shatter the window. You’ll also be sent an update through your home security cell phone app.
• Add a more secure lock. Complement your simple flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are fantastic solutions and simple to secure. You can also get a sturdy, keyed deadbolt.
• Incorporate a reinforcement bar. A door brace is a traditional approach that brings one more layer to your defense. These are often metal or solid wood supports fitted within the bottom door track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a tight fit.

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

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all the entryways in your home with a comprehensive smart home in Utica from Vivint. We offer all the equipment you need, from video cameras to door and window sensors. If something trips, you and your 24-7 monitoring specialists will be notified immediately. Call (315) 819-0721 today to get more information and arrange your professional installation.