How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the easy access it offers to your backyard retreat and the plentiful light it lets in. These doorways are beneficial aspects of any Provo residence, but also come with security risks. Discover why they’re targeted by theives and what you should do to stop intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are commonly targeted in Provo

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also enticing to intruders. There are a couple of explanations. First and foremost, they are typically designed more for utility than security. Most don’t utilize deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are usually a cinch to circumvent. They’re also positioned at the back of your Provo residence, giving burglars a better chance to approach without being seen. 

How do trespassers circumvent sliding doors?

When experiencing nice temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding patio door could be the most-used entry at your home. You might a pattern of keeping it unlocked so kids can effortlessly enter and exit to the outdoor area. Even when you secure the door, determined intruders can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have basic locks that housebreakers can unlock with a common tool.
• Smash the glass. Thieves are more likely to break glass when they’re concealed from view. Countless sliding doors use thin glass that’s easy to shatter.
• Pry the door from its track. Burglars might attempt to pop the door off the track and pull it away from the frame with a crowbar or another tool so they can fit through.

Despite the fact that it’s simple to bypass sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to boost your security. See how you can make it happen.

Better defend your Provo home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to enhance the security of one of the most vulnerable entryways in your Provo house, here’s how you can.

• Install security cameras. When potential thieves notice cameras at your property, they’ll probably find a less secure target. They never want to take the chance of being caught on camera. You can even find surveillance systems that actively discourage lurkers with lights and sound.
• Integrate security sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will trigger if a burglar starts to enter or shatter the glass. You’ll also receive an update through your home security smartphone app.
• Install a more secure lock. Replace or complement your standard flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic options and simple to secure. You could also choose a sturdy, keyed deadbolt.
• Incorporate a door brace. A security bar is a simple solution that brings an additional layer to your defense. These are traditionally solid wood supports positioned within the door’s lower track. Make certain it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

Open the door to better security with a Vivint smart home in Provo

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entrances with an integrated smart home in Provo from Vivint. We provide all the devices you need, from window and door sensors to surveillance cameras. If anything triggers, you and your 24-7 monitoring agents will be notified right away. Call (385) 455-7233 today to get more information and schedule your professional installation.