How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the effortless access it offers to your backyard and the plentiful light it brings in. These entrances are valuable elements of any Roanoke residence, but also come with security concerns. See why they’re targeted by burglars and what you can do to stop break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are often targeted in Roanoke

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also attractive to thieves. There are a few straightforward reasons why. Primarily, they are commonly made more for function than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are often easy to circumvent. Prowlers also have a a greater likelihood of approaching unseen as the doors are typically at the back of your house. 

How do burglars bypass sliding doors?

When experiencing warm temperatures and sunny days, your sliding glass door could be the most-utilized entryway in your home. You could fall into a routine of leaving it unlocked so your little ones can effortlessly access the outdoor area. Even when you secure the door, determined intruders can circumvent it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have basic locks that housebreakers can circumvent with a simple tool.
• Smash the glass. Prowlers are more likely to smash glass when they’re hidden from sight. Many sliding doors include thin glass that’s not difficult to shatter.
• Pry the door from its track. Thieves could attempt to force the door off of its track and yank it away from the frame using a crowbar or another tool so they can fit through.

Even though it’s not difficult to circumvent sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to improve your security. Learn how you can make it happen.

Better defend your Roanoke home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to enhance the security of one of the most vulnerable entrances in your Roanoke house, here’s how to do so.

• Install surveillance cameras. When would-be invaders see video cameras at your property, they’ll most likely try to locate a less protected target. They won’t want to be recorded on camera. You can even choose video cameras that actively deter prowlers with audible and visual warnings.
• Integrate security sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted visitor starts to come in or break the glass. You’ll also be sent an update through your home security mobile app.
• Add a more secure lock. Replace or complement your standard flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular add-ons and straightforward to operate. You might also get a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Incorporate a security bar. A security bar is a time-tested method that brings one more layer to your protection. These are traditionally solid wood or metal supports placed within the bottom door track. Make certain it’s sized properly for a snug fit.

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

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all your home’s entrances with a comprehensive smart home in Roanoke from Vivint. We provide all the equipment you need, from video cameras to window and door sensors. If a device triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be notified right away. Reach out to (540) 340-9398 today to get more information and arrange your professional installation.