How to Secure a Sliding Glass Door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the easy access it creates to your outdoor living space and the abundance of natural light it brings in. These doorways are valuable elements of any Salt Lake City home, but also pose security concerns. See why they’re a target for theives and what you can do to stop intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Salt Lake City

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also tempting to thieves. There are a couple of straightforward explanations. Primarily, they are typically constructed more for aesthetics than security. Many don’t utilize deadbolts, and their locks are typically easy to manipulate. They’re also placed at the back of your Salt Lake City home, giving prowlers an improved chance to approach unseen. 

How do intruders bypass sliding doors?

When experiencing nice temperatures and sunny days, your sliding patio door could be the most-used entryway in your home. You may develop a habit of leaving it unlatched so kids can access the yard on their own. Even if you lock your door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that intruders can circumvent with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Home invaders are more prone to smash glass when they’re concealed from view. Some sliding doors include thin glass that’s easy to smash.
• Remove the door from its track. Thieves might attempt to pop the door out of its track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or another device so they are able to fit through.

Despite the fact that it’s not difficult to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to improve your security. Learn how you can do so.

Better defend your Salt Lake City home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to improve the security of one of your Salt Lake City residence’s most vulnerable entrances, here’s how to do so.

• Install video cameras. When would-be intruders see surveillance around your house, they’ll most likely find a less secure target. They won’t want to risk being caught on camera. You can even choose surveillance tools that actively discourage thieves with lights and sound.
• Integrate entrypoint sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will trigger if a burglar starts to come in or break the glass. Smart home systems will also alert you with communications to your home security mobile app.
• Add a more secure lock. Replace or complement your basic flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic add-ons and simple to operate. You might also choose a sturdy, keyed deadbolt.
• Install a reinforcement bar. A security bar is a time-tested method that brings one more layer to your defense. These are often solid wood supports fitted inside the bottom door track. Make certain it’s sized properly for a snug fit.

Unlock the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Salt Lake City

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all the entryways in your home with a comprehensive smart home in Salt Lake City from Vivint. We have all the devices you need, from door and window sensors to video cameras. If a device activates, you and your round-the-clock monitoring agents will be alerted immediately. Call (385) 350-4458 today to find out more and book your professional installation.