How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the effortless access it provides to your backyard and the bounty of natural light it welcomes in. These doorways are desirable features for any Albuquerque residence, but also present security risks. Learn why they’re targeted by burglars and what you should do to avoid unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Albuquerque

As sought-after as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also tempting to intruders. There are some reasons why. To begin with, they are generally constructed more for function than security. Many don’t have deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are typically a cinch to manipulate. Burglars also have a greater opportunity of approaching undetected as the doors are located at the rear of your home. 

How do trespassers bypass sliding doors?

When you have pleasant temperatures and sunny days, your sliding door might be the most-frequented entry at your house. You could get in a routine of leaving it unlocked so your little ones can easily enter and exit to the outdoor area. Even when you lock your door, determined prowlers 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 likely to smash glass when they’re hidden from sight. Many sliding doors have thin glass that’s easy to shatter.
• Pry the door from its track. Burglars could try to force the door out of its track and pull it away from the frame with a crowbar or other tools so they are able to squeeze through.

Although it’s easy to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to step up your security. Discover what you can do.

Better protect your Albuquerque home’s sliding glass door

If you want to boost the security of one of the most susceptible entryways in your Albuquerque house, here’s how you can.

• Incorporate surveillance cameras. When would-be intruders spot surveillance, they’ll most likely try to find an easier target. They won’t want to take the chance of being recorded on camera. You can even choose surveillance systems that actively discourage lurkers with audible and visual warnings.
• Integrate door sensors. Incorporate glass break and contact sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted visitor starts to intrude or smash the glass. Smart home systems will also alert you with updates to your home security smartphone app.
• Upgrade the lock. Replace or complement your basic flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic options and easy to operate. You might also get a sturdy, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A security bar or brace is a simple solution that adds one more layer to your protection. These are traditionally solid wood or metal reinforcements fitted along the bottom door track. Make certain it’s measured properly for a tight fit.

Unlock the door to a new level of security with a Vivint smart home in Albuquerque

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entryways with a comprehensive smart home in Albuquerque from Vivint. We have all the equipment you need, from door and window sensors to surveillance cameras. If a device activates, you and your 24-7 monitoring specialists will be alerted instantly. Reach out to (505) 605-2321 today to get more information and arrange your professional installation.