How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the easy access it creates to your backyard and the plentiful natural light it brings in. These entryways are beneficial elements of any Rochester home, but also pose security risks. See why they’re preferred by intruders and what you might do to avoid intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Rochester

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also attractive to burglars. There are a few simple explanations. First and foremost, they are typically constructed more for aesthetics than security. Most don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are often a cinch to bypass. They’re also positioned at the rear of your Rochester house, giving intruders an improved opportunity to approach without being seen. 

How do trespassers bypass sliding doors?

When you have nice temperatures and lovely days, your sliding door might be the most-frequented entry in your home. You might fall into a pattern of keeping it unlocked so your children can get to the backyard on their own. Even when you fasten the door, determined intruders can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have basic locks that intruders can force open with a simple tool.
• Break the glass. Thieves are more inclined to break glass when they’re concealed from view. Some sliding doors use thin glass that’s easy to break.
• Remove the door from its track. Criminals could try to pry the door out of its track and yank it away from the frame with a crowbar or another implement so they may fit through.

Despite the fact that it’s easy to bypass sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to improve your security. Discover how you can do so.

Better defend your Rochester home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to boost the security of one of the most susceptible entryways in your Rochester residence, here’s how you can.

• Install security cameras. When would-be invaders notice video cameras around your house, they’ll likely find an easier target. They don’t want to be caught on camera. You can even get video cameras that actively discourage lurkers with sound and lights.
• Integrate door sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will sound if a burglar tries to intrude or shatter the glass. You’ll also get an alert through your security system’s mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Complement your simple flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are terrific add-ons and simple to operate. You might also incorporate a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Add a security bar. A door brace is a time-tested approach that brings one more layer to your protection. These are often solid wood or metal supports placed along the bottom door track. Ensure it’s designed properly for a tight fit.

Open the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Rochester

Better defend your sliding glass door and all the entry points in your home with a comprehensive smart home in Rochester from Vivint. We provide all the equipment you need, from cameras to window and door sensors. If anything activates, you and your 24-7 monitoring agents will be alerted immediately. Call (507) 710-3863 today to find out more and book your professional installation.