How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the bounty of daylight it welcomes in and the effortless access it delivers to your backyard retreat. These entryways are desirable aspects of any Flint property, but also come with security concerns. Discover why they’re preferred by theives and what you can do to avoid unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Flint

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also enticing to intruders. There are a few simple explanations. To begin with, they are typically made more for function than security. Many don’t utilize deadbolts, and their locks are usually a cinch to circumvent. Burglars also have a a greater likelihood of approaching without being seen as the doors are located at the back of your residence. 

How do burglars circumvent sliding doors?

When experiencing nice temperatures and sunny days, your sliding door could be the most-utilized entry at your home. You may get in a routine of leaving it open so kids can go back and forth to the backyard on their own accord. Even when you lock your door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that intruders can circumvent with a common tool.
• Smash the glass. Thieves are more prone to shatter glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of numerous sliding doors is easy to smash.
• Pry the door from its track. Thieves could try to pop the door out of its track and pull it away from the frame using a crowbar or another device so they can squeeze through.

Although it’s easy to circumvent sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to boost your security. Discover what you can do.

Better protect your Flint home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to enhance the security of one of your Flint residence’s most susceptible entry points, here’s how you can do it.

• Implement video cameras. When would-be invaders see surveillance at your property, they’ll probably find an easier target. They won’t want to be caught on camera. You can even find surveillance tools that actively deter prowlers with sound and lights.
• Use security sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will sound if an unwanted guest attempts to come in or break the glass. Advanced systems will even alert you with updates to your home security mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Reinforce your simple flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic add-ons and simple to use. You can also choose a more robust, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A door brace is a traditional approach that provides another layer to your defense. These are often solid wood supports placed along the lower door track. Ensure it’s sized properly for a snug fit.

Unlock the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Flint

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all your home’s entryways with a fully connected smart home in Flint from Vivint. We have all the tools you need, from video cameras to door and window sensors. If a device trips, you and your 24-7 monitoring agents will be notified instantly. Contact (810) 672-7953 today to find out more and arrange your professional installation.