How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the plentiful daylight it lets in and the effortless access it delivers to your backyard. These entrances are desirable features for any Wichita Falls home, but also come with security risks. Learn why they’re a target for theives and what you should do to avoid intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Wichita Falls

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also tempting to burglars. There are a few straightforward reasons why. First and foremost, they are generally designed more for function than security. Many don’t use deadbolts, and their locks are typically easy to manipulate. Prowlers also have a a greater likelihood of approaching without being seen as the doors are typically at the back of your residence. 

How do burglars circumvent sliding doors?

When you have pleasant temperatures and sunny days, your sliding door might be the most-utilized entry at your house. You might get in a routine of leaving it unlatched so your little ones can effortlessly go back and forth to the yard. Even if you secure the door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Many sliding glass doors have standard locks that burglars can force open with a common tool.
• Shatter the glass. Prowlers are more prone to break glass when they’re concealed from view. Some sliding doors include thin glass that’s easy to break.
• Force the door from its track. Burglars may try to pry the door out of its track and move it away from the frame with a crowbar or another tool so they are able to squeeze through.

Despite the fact that it’s simple to circumvent sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to step up your security. Discover how you can make it happen.

Better secure your Wichita Falls home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to improve the security of one of your Wichita Falls property’s most susceptible entry points, here’s how you can.

• Incorporate surveillance cameras. When potential invaders notice video cameras, they’ll probably find a less secure target. They don’t want to risk being captured on camera. You can even choose surveillance tools that actively deter lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Integrate security sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted guest starts to come in or smash the window. Smart home systems will also inform you with alerts to your security system’s mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Reinforce your standard flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular add-ons and easy to secure. You might also choose a more robust, key-turned deadbolt.
• Add a door brace. A security bar is a time-tested method that adds one more layer to your defense. These are often solid wood or metal reinforcements placed within the lower door track. Make sure it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

Unlock the door to better security with a Vivint smart home in Wichita Falls

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entrances with an integrated smart home in Wichita Falls from Vivint. We provide all the tools you need, from door and window sensors to surveillance cameras. If a device triggers, you and your round-the-clock monitoring specialists will be notified instantly. Contact (940) 209-1266 today to find out more and arrange your professional installation.