How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the bounty of light it brings in and the easy access it delivers to your backyard retreat. These entryways are valuable features for any Tempe home, but also present security risks. See why they’re targeted by theives and what you might do to stop intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are commonly targeted in Tempe

As sought-after as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also enticing to thieves. There are a couple of explanations. First and foremost, they are typically made more for function than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locks are often a cinch to bypass. Prowlers also have a greater opportunity of approaching unseen as the doors are found at the rear of your residence. 

How do intruders force entry through sliding doors?

When you have pleasant temperatures and sunny days, your sliding door could be the most-utilized entry at your home. You might fall into a habit of keeping it unlatched so your little ones can readily enter and exit to the outdoor area. Even if you secure the door, burglars can get around it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have basic locks that intruders can force open with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Thieves are more inclined to shatter glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of many sliding doors is easy to smash.
• Pry the door from its track. Thieves could try to force the door off the track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or another tool so they may slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s easy to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to improve your security. See how you can make it happen.

Better protect your Tempe home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to enhance the security of one of your Tempe home’s most susceptible entrances, here’s how you can.

• Implement security cameras. When prospective thieves see video cameras around your house, they’ll probably try to locate an easier target. They won’t want to take the chance of being caught on camera. You can even get surveillance tools that actively deter thieves with lights and sound.
• Use door sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted guest starts to intrude or shatter the window. Smart home systems will even inform you with alerts to your home security mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic add-ons and straightforward to operate. You might also incorporate a more robust, keyed deadbolt.
• Incorporate a door brace. A security bar is a time-tested method that provides one more layer to your defense. These are often metal or solid wood supports fitted along the lower door track. Make certain it’s designed properly for a secure fit.

Unlock the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Tempe

Better defend your sliding glass door and all your home’s entrances with a comprehensive smart home in Tempe from Vivint. We have all the tools you need, from cameras to window and door sensors. If anything activates, you and your round-the-clock monitoring agents will be alerted immediately. Contact (480) 360-6677 today to find out more and schedule your professional installation.