How to Secure a Sliding Glass Door

You love your sliding glass door for the easy access it offers to your backyard retreat and the plentiful daylight it welcomes in. These doorways are desirable features for any Dallas property, but also come with security risks. See why they’re preferred by theives and what you can do to avoid intrusions.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Dallas

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also tempting to thieves. There are some straightforward reasons why. Primarily, they are generally designed more for aesthetics than security. The majority don’t use deadbolts, and their locking systems are typically easy to manipulate. They’re also placed at the back of your Dallas house, giving prowlers a greater opportunity to approach undetected. 

How do burglars circumvent sliding doors?

When experiencing pleasant temperatures and lovely days, your sliding patio door might be the most-used entryway at your home. You may a pattern of keeping it open so kids can readily go back and forth to the outdoor area. Even if you lock your door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. A lot of sliding glass doors have basic locks that housebreakers can force open with a simple tool.
• Shatter the glass. Home invaders are more inclined to smash glass when they’re out of sight. Some sliding doors have thin glass that’s not difficult to shatter.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars may attempt to pry the door out of its track and pull it away from the frame with a crowbar or other tools so they are able to slip through.

Even though it’s easy to bypass sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to boost your security. Learn what you might do.

Better defend your Dallas home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to enhance the security of one of your Dallas home’s most susceptible entry points, here’s how to do so.

• Incorporate surveillance cameras. When potential intruders notice video cameras at your property, they’ll likely try to find a less secure target. They don’t want to be captured on camera. You can even get surveillance tools that actively scare off thieves with sound and lights.
• Integrate door sensors. Incorporate glass break and contact sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted guest starts to enter or shatter the glass. Smart home systems will even alert you with communications to your home security mobile app.
• Add a more secure lock. Complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular add-ons and straightforward to operate. You can also get a more robust, keyed deadbolt.
• Add a security bar. A security bar or brace is a traditional solution that provides another layer to your protection. These are typically metal or solid wood reinforcements positioned inside the bottom door track. Make certain it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

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

Better defend your sliding glass door and all the entry points in your home with a comprehensive smart home in Dallas from Vivint. We have all the equipment you need, from cameras to window and door sensors. If something trips, you and your round-the-clock monitoring agents will be informed right away. Contact (469) 812-8953 today to find out more and book your professional installation.