How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the easy access it provides to your outdoor living space and the plentiful light it brings in. These entryways are desirable elements of any Grand Rapids residence, but also come with security concerns. Learn why they’re targeted by theives and what you might do to avoid intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are commonly targeted in Grand Rapids

As sought-after as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also attractive to intruders. There are a couple of simple explanations. To begin with, they are commonly constructed more for function than security. The majority don’t have deadbolts, and their locking systems are often a cinch to bypass. They’re also positioned at the back of your Grand Rapids home, giving intruders a better opportunity to approach without being seen. 

How do intruders bypass sliding doors?

During bright and sunny days and warm temperatures, your sliding glass door could be the most-frequented entryway at your home. You may fall into a habit of leaving it unlocked so your children can effortlessly access the yard. Even if you secure the door, determined intruders can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have standard locks that intruders can force open with a simple tool.
• Shatter the glass. Home invaders are more inclined to break glass when they’re concealed from view. Many sliding doors include thin glass that’s not hard to break.
• Pry the door from its track. Burglars could attempt to pop the door off of its track and pull it away from the frame using a crowbar or another implement so they may fit through.

Although it’s not difficult to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to step up your security. Learn how you can do so.

Better defend your Grand Rapids home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to enhance the security of one of the most at-risk doors in your Grand Rapids house, here’s how to do so.

• Install security cameras. When potential intruders see cameras around your house, they’ll likely find a less protected target. They won’t want to take the chance of being captured on camera. You can even get surveillance systems that actively discourage prowlers with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect entrypoint sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted visitor attempts to intrude 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 basic flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are terrific options and straightforward to secure. You can also incorporate a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Install a security bar. A security bar or brace is a traditional solution that adds one more layer to your protection. These are often solid wood reinforcements fitted within the door’s lower track. Make certain it’s measured properly for a tight fit.

Unlock the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Grand Rapids

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all your home’s entryways with a comprehensive smart home in Grand Rapids from Vivint. We offer all the devices you need, from door and window sensors to video cameras. If anything trips, you and your 24-7 monitoring agents will be informed instantly. Reach out to (616) 747-8419 today to get more information and book your professional installation.