How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the bounty of light it lets in and the effortless access it delivers to your backyard. These entrances are valuable features for any Boston property, but also come with security concerns. Learn why they’re targeted by intruders and what you might do to prevent break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Boston

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also enticing to thieves. There are some simple explanations. First and foremost, they are typically constructed more for aesthetics than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locks are often simple to circumvent. Burglars also have a better chance of approaching without being seen as the doors are located at the rear of your home. 

How do intruders bypass sliding doors?

When you have nice temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding glass door might be the most-frequented entryway at your house. You might develop a pattern of keeping it unlocked so your little ones can easily enter and exit to the yard. Even when you secure the door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have basic locks that intruders can unlock with a common tool.
• Smash the glass. Home invaders are more inclined to shatter glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of countless sliding doors is not difficult to shatter.
• Remove the door from its track. Thieves may attempt to pry the door off the track and pull it away from the frame using a crowbar or other devices so they are able to fit through.

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

Better protect your Boston home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to boost the security of one of your Boston property’s most at-risk doors, here’s how you can do it.

• Install surveillance cameras. When prospective intruders see video cameras at your property, they’ll probably find a less secure target. They don’t want to take the chance of being captured on camera. You can even choose surveillance tools that actively scare off thieves with sound and lights.
• Integrate entrypoint sensors. Connect contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will trigger if a burglar starts to enter or shatter the glass. Advanced systems will even inform you with updates to your home security mobile app.
• Upgrade the lock. Replace or complement your basic flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are terrific options and simple to operate. You can also incorporate a sturdy, key-turned deadbolt.
• Add a door brace. A security bar or brace is a simple solution that adds one more layer to your defense. These are often solid wood or metal reinforcements positioned along the lower door track. Make sure it’s sized properly for a tight fit.

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

Better defend your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with a fully connected smart home in Boston from Vivint. We have all the devices you need, from surveillance cameras to door and window sensors. If something trips, you and your 24-7 monitoring agents will be alerted right away. Reach out to (617) 826-8647 today to learn more and schedule your professional installation.