How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the easy access it creates to your backyard and the abundance of light it lets in. These entryways are desirable features for any Pittsburgh residence, but also pose security risks. Learn why they’re preferred by burglars and what you can do to stop break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are frequent targets in Pittsburgh

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also tempting to intruders. There are a few straightforward explanations. To begin with, they are generally designed more for utility than security. The majority don’t use deadbolts, and their locking systems are typically simple to bypass. Burglars also have a better chance of approaching without being seen as the doors are found at the back of your home. 

How do trespassers bypass sliding doors?

When you have warm temperatures and sunny days, your sliding door could be the most-used entryway in your home. You could fall into a habit of leaving it open so kids can access the backyard on their own accord. Even when you lock your door, determined prowlers can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Many sliding glass doors have standard locks that housebreakers can force open with a common tool.
• Shatter the glass. Thieves are more inclined to break glass when they’re concealed from view. The thin glass of many sliding doors is easy to break.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars could try to force the door off the track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or other devices so they are able to squeeze through.

Even though it’s easy to bypass sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to boost your security. Discover how you can do so.

Better secure your Pittsburgh home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to boost the security of one of the most at-risk entrances in your Pittsburgh house, here’s how you can do it.

• Incorporate security cameras. When prospective invaders spot video cameras, they’ll most likely try to locate a less protected target. They won’t want to risk being caught on camera. You can even get surveillance systems that actively discourage lurkers with lights and sound.
• Connect security sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted guest starts to come in or break the window. Advanced systems will also inform you with alerts to your home security cell phone app.
• Add a more secure lock. Complement your basic flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are terrific options and easy to use. You might also get a sturdy, key-turned deadbolt.
• Add a security bar. A door brace is a traditional method that adds one more layer to your protection. These are typically solid wood or metal supports positioned inside the door’s lower track. Ensure it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

Open the door to better security with a Vivint smart home in Pittsburgh

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entryways with an integrated smart home in Pittsburgh from Vivint. We offer all the tools you need, from window and door sensors to indoor and outdoor cameras. If a device triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring experts will be alerted right away. Reach out to (412) 318-9359 today to learn more and arrange your professional installation.