How to Secure a Sliding Glass Door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the plentiful daylight it welcomes in and the convenient access it offers to your backyard. These entrances are valuable aspects of any Des Moines residence, but also present security risks. Discover why they’re targeted by theives and what you should do to avoid break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are often targeted in Des Moines

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also enticing to burglars. There are a couple of simple explanations. Primarily, they are generally designed more for function than security. Many don’t utilize deadbolts, and their locking systems are often a cinch to manipulate. Prowlers also have a better chance of approaching undetected as the doors are located at the back of your home. 

How do burglars force entry through sliding doors?

When experiencing clear days and nice temperatures, your sliding patio door may be the most-frequented doorway at your house. You could a routine of keeping it unlocked so kids can easily go back and forth to the yard. Even if you fasten the door, burglars can get around it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. Many sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that intruders can unlock with a common tool.
• Smash the glass. Thieves are more likely to shatter glass when they’re out of sight. Some sliding doors have thin glass that’s easy to break.
• Force the door from its track. Criminals could try to pop the door off the track and move it away from the frame with a crowbar or another device so they can fit through.

Although it’s easy to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to boost your security. See how you can make it happen.

Better defend your Des Moines home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to improve the security of one of the most vulnerable entryways in your Des Moines residence, here’s how to do so.

• Install surveillance cameras. When would-be intruders spot surveillance around your house, they’ll most likely try to find an easier target. They won’t want to risk being caught on camera. You can even get surveillance tools that actively discourage lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Connect security sensors. Incorporate glass break and contact sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will sound if an unwanted guest tries to come in or break the glass. You’ll also receive an update through your security system’s mobile app.
• Add a more secure lock. Replace or complement your standard flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic add-ons and easy to operate. You could also get a more robust, keyed deadbolt.
• Add a security bar. A security bar or brace is a simple method that provides another layer to your security. These are traditionally solid wood or metal supports fitted within the lower door track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a tight fit.

Open the door to a new level of security with a Vivint smart home in Des Moines

Better defend your sliding glass door and all the entry points in your home with a fully connected smart home in Des Moines from Vivint. We provide all the devices you need, from surveillance cameras to window and door sensors. If something trips, you and your 24-7 monitoring specialists will be alerted immediately. Contact (515) 972-5232 today to find out more and arrange your professional installation.