How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the bounty of daylight it welcomes in and the easy access it offers to your backyard. These doorways are beneficial features for any Corpus Christi property, but also come with safety risks. See why they’re a target for intruders and what you should do to prevent unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are commonly targeted in Corpus Christi

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also attractive to intruders. There are a few simple explanations. Primarily, they are commonly designed more for function than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are typically a cinch to manipulate. They’re also positioned at the rear of your Corpus Christi residence, giving burglars a better chance to approach undetected. 

How do intruders force entry through sliding doors?

During pleasant temperatures and lovely days, your sliding door might be the most-frequented doorway at your home. You could a pattern of keeping it open so your little ones can access the backyard on their own accord. Even when you secure the door, determined intruders can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that burglars can force open with a simple tool.
• Smash the glass. Thieves are more prone to smash glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of numerous sliding doors is easy to smash.
• Pry the door from its track. Burglars might try to pop the door out of its track and move it away from the frame using a crowbar or another tool so they are able to slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s not difficult to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to step up your security. See what your options are.

Better protect your Corpus Christi home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to improve the security of one of the most vulnerable entryways in your Corpus Christi residence, here’s how you can.

• Incorporate video cameras. When potential invaders spot surveillance, they’ll likely try to find a less secure target. They won’t want to risk being captured on camera. You can even get surveillance tools that actively deter lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect door sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted guest starts to come in or shatter the glass. You’ll also be sent an update through your security system’s mobile app.
• Upgrade the lock. Complement your basic flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are terrific add-ons and simple to operate. You can also choose a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Add a security bar. A security bar or brace is a traditional approach that brings one more layer to your protection. These are traditionally solid wood or metal reinforcements placed within the door’s lower track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a tight fit.

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

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entrances with a comprehensive smart home in Corpus Christi from Vivint. We offer all the devices you need, from video cameras to door and window sensors. If something activates, you and your 24-hour monitoring experts will be notified right away. Reach out to (361) 733-2385 today to get more information and arrange your professional installation.