How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the effortless access it creates to your backyard retreat and the abundance of natural light it brings in. These entrances are beneficial features for any Indianapolis home, but also pose security risks. Discover why they’re a target for intruders and what you should do to stop unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Indianapolis

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also attractive to thieves. There are a few simple explanations. First and foremost, they are typically made more for utility than security. The majority don’t have deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are often a cinch to manipulate. Burglars also have a a greater likelihood of approaching undetected as the doors are typically at the back of your home. 

How do trespassers circumvent sliding doors?

When you have warm temperatures and lovely days, your sliding patio door might be the most-utilized entryway at your house. You might get in a habit of keeping it open so your little ones can access the yard on their own accord. Even when you secure the door, determined prowlers can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have standard locks that intruders can force open with a common tool.
• Smash the glass. Thieves are more prone to shatter glass when they’re concealed from view. Some sliding doors include thin glass that’s easy to break.
• Force the door from its track. Thieves could try to pry the door out of its track and yank it away from the frame using a crowbar or another tool so they may squeeze through.

Despite the fact that it’s not difficult to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to improve your security. Discover how you can make it happen.

Better secure your Indianapolis home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to boost the security of one of the most susceptible entryways in your Indianapolis home, here’s how you can do it.

• Implement security cameras. When potential intruders see video cameras around your house, they’ll likely find a less secure target. They won’t want to risk being recorded on camera. You can even find video cameras that actively deter prowlers with audible and visual warnings.
• Integrate security sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted visitor attempts to come in or break the glass. You’ll also receive an update through your home security smartphone app.
• Add a more secure lock. Reinforce your simple flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are fantastic add-ons and easy to secure. You might also get a sturdy, key-operated deadbolt.
• Install a security bar. A security bar is a traditional method that provides another layer to your defense. These are traditionally solid wood supports positioned inside the bottom door track. Make sure it’s designed properly for a tight fit.

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

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with a comprehensive smart home in Indianapolis from Vivint. We provide all the devices you need, from video cameras to door and window sensors. If something triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be notified instantly. Call (317) 978-5706 today to learn more and arrange your professional installation.