How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the easy access it provides to your backyard retreat and the bounty of light it brings in. These doorways are beneficial features for any Eugene home, but also present security concerns. See why they’re preferred by intruders and what you should do to avoid unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are frequent targets in Eugene

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also tempting to burglars. There are a few straightforward explanations. To begin with, they are commonly made more for function than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locks are typically easy to circumvent. They’re also installed at the rear of your Eugene house, giving intruders an improved chance to approach without being seen. 

How do intruders force entry through sliding doors?

During nice temperatures and sunny days, your sliding glass door may be the most-utilized doorway in your home. You may fall into a pattern of leaving it open so your children can access the yard on their own. Even when you secure the door, burglars can circumvent it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. Many sliding glass doors have basic locks that burglars can circumvent with a simple tool.
• Shatter the glass. Thieves are more inclined to smash glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of countless sliding doors is easy to shatter.
• Remove the door from its track. Criminals may attempt to pry the door off of its track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or other tools so they can slip through.

Even though it’s simple to circumvent sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to improve your security. See what your options are.

Better defend your Eugene home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to improve the security of one of the most at-risk entrances in your Eugene home, here’s how you can do it.

• Incorporate video cameras. When potential thieves see video cameras around your house, they’ll probably find a less secure target. They don’t want to take the chance of being caught on camera. You can even find video cameras that actively scare off prowlers with audible and visual warnings.
• Use security sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will sound if a burglar tries to enter or smash the window. You’ll also get an alert through your security system’s mobile app.
• Add a more secure lock. Reinforce your basic flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular options and easy to secure. You might also choose a sturdy, keyed deadbolt.
• Incorporate a reinforcement bar. A security bar or brace is a simple approach that brings an additional layer to your security. These are typically metal or solid wood reinforcements placed along the door’s lower track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a snug fit.

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

Better protect your sliding glass door and all the entryways in your home with a comprehensive smart home in Eugene from Vivint. We provide all the equipment you need, from window and door sensors to indoor and outdoor cameras. If a device triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be alerted immediately. Reach out to (541) 313-4091 today to find out more and schedule your professional installation.