How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the bounty of sunlight it brings in and the effortless access it provides to your backyard. These entrances are valuable elements of any Tyler property, but also pose security risks. See why they’re preferred by burglars and what you can do to avoid unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Tyler

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also tempting to burglars. There are a couple of straightforward explanations. First and foremost, they are generally designed more for utility than security. Many don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are typically simple to bypass. They’re also positioned at the back of your Tyler residence, giving burglars an improved chance to approach unseen. 

How do intruders bypass sliding doors?

When you have pleasant temperatures and lovely days, your sliding patio door could be the most-used doorway in your home. You might get in a habit of keeping it unlatched so your little ones can effortlessly enter and exit to the backyard. Even if you fasten the door, determined intruders can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that housebreakers can force open with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Thieves are more inclined to break glass when they’re out of sight. The thin glass of countless sliding doors is easy to smash.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars could attempt to pop the door out of its track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or other tools so they are able to slip through.

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

Better protect your Tyler home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to improve the security of one of your Tyler home’s most vulnerable doors, here’s how you can do it.

• Install video cameras. When would-be thieves notice surveillance around your house, they’ll probably try to locate a less secure target. They won’t want to be caught on camera. You can even choose surveillance systems that actively discourage lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Use security sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will trigger if a burglar starts to come in or smash the window. Smart home systems will even notify you with alerts to your security system’s mobile app.
• Upgrade the lock. Reinforce your basic flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic solutions and simple to secure. You might also choose a more robust, key-operated deadbolt.
• Add a reinforcement bar. A security bar or brace is a time-tested solution that adds another layer to your security. These are typically metal or solid wood supports placed within the door’s lower track. Make certain it’s measured properly for a secure fit.

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

Better defend your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with an integrated smart home in Tyler from Vivint. We have all the equipment you need, from door and window sensors to indoor and outdoor cameras. If a device triggers, you and your 24-7 monitoring experts will be notified right away. Call (903) 459-7565 today to learn more and arrange your professional installation.