How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the effortless access it offers to your backyard retreat and the plentiful light it brings in. These entryways are desirable elements of any Richmond property, but also pose security concerns. See why they’re targeted by burglars and what you should do to prevent unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are often targeted in Richmond

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also tempting to intruders. There are some simple reasons why. First and foremost, they are typically designed more for utility than security. The majority don’t utilize deadbolts, and their locks are typically a cinch to manipulate. Intruders also have a greater opportunity of approaching unseen as the doors are located at the back of your house. 

How do burglars bypass sliding doors?

When experiencing nice temperatures and sun-splashed days, your sliding glass door might be the most-frequented entry in your home. You may develop a habit of keeping it unlocked so your children can easily enter and exit to the yard. Even if you lock your door, burglars can circumvent it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that intruders can circumvent with a common tool.
• Shatter the glass. Prowlers are more prone to shatter glass when they’re concealed from view. The thin glass of numerous sliding doors is easy to smash.
• Pry the door from its track. Criminals might attempt to pry the door off of its track and pull it away from the frame using a crowbar or another implement so they can fit through.

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

Better defend your Richmond home’s sliding glass door

If you want to boost the security of one of the most at-risk entrances in your Richmond house, here’s how you can.

• Install video cameras. When would-be thieves spot cameras, they’ll likely try to locate a less secure target. They won’t want to take the chance of being captured on camera. You can even choose video cameras that actively discourage thieves with sound and lights.
• Integrate security sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will go off if a burglar attempts to enter or shatter the window. Advanced systems will even alert you with communications to your home security mobile app.
• Upgrade the lock. Complement your basic flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular solutions and straightforward to use. You can also incorporate a sturdy, keyed deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A security bar is a time-tested solution that brings an additional layer to your defense. These are typically metal or solid wood reinforcements fitted along the bottom door track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a secure fit.

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

Better protect your sliding glass door and all the entry points in your home with a fully connected smart home in Richmond from Vivint. We provide all the devices you need, from cameras to door and window sensors. If something activates, you and your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be alerted instantly. Contact (804) 534-2782 today to get more information and schedule your professional installation.