How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the plentiful daylight it welcomes in and the convenient access it offers to your backyard retreat. These entryways are valuable aspects of any Columbia property, but also come with security concerns. See why they’re targeted by theives and what you might do to prevent break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Columbia

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also attractive to thieves. There are some explanations. First and foremost, they are generally constructed more for utility than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locks are typically a cinch to manipulate. Burglars also have a a greater likelihood of approaching unseen as the doors are found at the back of your home. 

How do trespassers circumvent sliding doors?

When you have bright and sunny days and pleasant temperatures, your sliding patio door might be the most-used entry at your home. You might develop a routine of keeping it open so your little ones can access the yard on their own. Even when you secure the door, determined prowlers can get around it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have basic locks that housebreakers can unlock with a simple tool.
• Break the glass. Thieves are more inclined to break glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of numerous sliding doors is easy to shatter.
• Force the door from its track. Criminals might attempt to force the door off the track and pull it away from the frame using a crowbar or another device so they can fit through.

Despite the fact that it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to step up your security. Learn what you can do.

Better defend your Columbia home’s sliding glass door

If you want to boost the security of one of the most susceptible entrances in your Columbia home, here’s how you can do it.

• Install security cameras. When would-be invaders notice video cameras at your property, they’ll probably try to locate a less protected target. They won’t want to take the chance of being captured on camera. You can even get video cameras that actively discourage prowlers with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect security sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted visitor starts to enter or shatter the glass. Modern systems will even alert you with updates to your home security cell phone app.
• Add a more secure lock. Complement your standard flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic solutions and easy to use. You might also get a sturdy, keyed deadbolt.
• Add a security bar. A security bar or brace is a time-tested approach that adds another layer to your defense. These are often solid wood reinforcements positioned inside the door’s lower track. Make certain it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

Open the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Columbia

Better defend your sliding glass door and all the entrances in your home with an integrated smart home in Columbia from Vivint. We provide all the tools you need, from surveillance cameras to window and door sensors. If a device activates, you and your 24-7 monitoring experts will be alerted right away. Call (803) 921-0946 today to find out more and arrange your professional installation.