How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the easy access it provides to your outdoor living space and the bounty of light it lets in. These entryways are valuable aspects of any Bloomington property, but also pose security concerns. Discover why they’re a target for theives and what you should do to prevent unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Bloomington

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also tempting to thieves. There are a few reasons why. To begin with, they are typically constructed more for utility than security. Many don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are often easy to manipulate. They’re also installed at the rear of your Bloomington house, giving intruders a greater opportunity to approach unseen. 

How do burglars circumvent sliding doors?

When experiencing pleasant temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding door might be the most-used entryway at your home. You might a routine of leaving it unlatched so your children can readily access the backyard. Even when you lock your door, determined intruders can circumvent it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have basic locks that intruders can force open with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Home invaders are more likely to shatter glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of numerous sliding doors is not hard to shatter.
• Pry the door from its track. Thieves might try to pry the door out of its track and yank it away from the frame using a crowbar or another device so they may slip through.

Although it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to boost your security. Learn how you can make it happen.

Better secure your Bloomington home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of the most vulnerable entryways in your Bloomington residence, here’s how you can do it.

• Install security cameras. When would-be thieves notice surveillance, they’ll probably try to find an easier target. They never want to be caught on camera. You can even choose surveillance tools that actively deter prowlers with sound and lights.
• Use security sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted guest attempts to intrude or break the window. Modern systems will also alert you with communications to your home security cell phone app.
• Install a more secure lock. Replace or complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular options and straightforward to secure. You might also get a sturdy, key-operated deadbolt.
• Install a security bar. A security bar is a simple solution that brings one more layer to your defense. These are traditionally solid wood reinforcements placed inside the bottom door track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a snug fit.

Unlock the door to better security with a Vivint smart home in Bloomington

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all the entryways in your home with an integrated smart home in Bloomington from Vivint. We provide all the tools you need, from cameras to door and window sensors. If a device triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring agents will be alerted instantly. Call (812) 579-4884 today to learn more and arrange your professional installation.