How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the abundance of sunlight it lets in and the easy access it provides to your backyard retreat. These entrances are beneficial features for any Stockton home, but also present security concerns. Learn why they’re targeted by burglars and what you might do to avoid break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are often targeted in Stockton

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also attractive to burglars. There are some simple reasons why. Primarily, they are typically constructed more for function than security. Many don’t use deadbolts, and their locking systems are usually simple to bypass. Intruders also have a greater opportunity of approaching undetected as the doors are typically at the back of your house. 

How do burglars force entry through sliding doors?

During sunny days and pleasant temperatures, your sliding glass door may be the most-used doorway at your home. You may fall into a routine of leaving it unlatched so kids can readily enter and exit to the yard. Even when you lock your door, determined intruders can get around it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that burglars can unlock with a simple tool.
• Break the glass. Thieves are more likely to shatter glass when they’re concealed from view. The thin glass of many sliding doors is easy to break.
• Remove the door from its track. Thieves might attempt to pry the door off of its track and yank it away from the frame with a crowbar or other tools so they can fit through.

Despite the fact that it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to step up your security. Learn how you can make it happen.

Better protect your Stockton home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to boost the security of one of the most vulnerable entryways in your Stockton residence, here’s how to do so.

• Incorporate video cameras. When potential intruders notice surveillance, they’ll most likely try to find a less protected target. They won’t want to risk being recorded on camera. You can even choose video cameras that actively deter lurkers with sound and lights.
• Connect security sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted visitor attempts to come in or break the window. Modern systems will even inform you with alerts to your security system’s smartphone app.
• Install a more secure lock. Reinforce your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular add-ons and straightforward to use. You might also incorporate a sturdy, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A door brace is a traditional method that adds another layer to your defense. These are traditionally metal or solid wood reinforcements fitted along the bottom door track. Ensure it’s sized properly for a secure fit.

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

Better protect your sliding glass door and all the entrances in your home with an integrated smart home in Stockton from Vivint. We have all the tools you need, from window and door sensors to indoor and outdoor cameras. If anything triggers, you and your round-the-clock monitoring agents will be alerted right away. Contact (209) 379-0036 today to find out more and schedule your professional installation.