How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the plentiful sunlight it brings in and the effortless access it provides to your backyard retreat. These doorways are valuable features for any Naperville residence, but also come with security risks. Discover why they’re targeted by intruders and what you can do to prevent unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Naperville

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also enticing to burglars. There are a few straightforward explanations. Primarily, they are commonly made more for utility than security. Many don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are typically easy to circumvent. They’re also positioned at the rear of your Naperville house, giving burglars a greater opportunity to approach without being seen. 

How do intruders force entry through sliding doors?

During warm temperatures and sunny days, your sliding patio door might be the most-frequented entryway at your home. You might develop a habit of leaving it open so your little ones can get to the yard easily. 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 housebreakers can force open with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Home invaders are more inclined to break glass when they’re out of sight. Countless sliding doors have thin glass that’s not hard to break.
• Remove the door from its track. Criminals may try to pop the door out of its track and move it away from the frame with a crowbar or other devices so they may squeeze through.

Even though it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to step up your security. Learn what your options are.

Better secure your Naperville home’s sliding glass door

If you want to boost the security of one of your Naperville home’s most at-risk doors, here’s how you can.

• Install video cameras. When prospective invaders see video cameras, they’ll likely find a less secure target. They never want to take the chance of being recorded on camera. You can even get surveillance systems that actively discourage prowlers with lights and sound.
• Use door sensors. Connect contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted guest starts to intrude or break the glass. Modern systems will also inform you with communications to your home security smartphone app.
• Add a more secure lock. Replace or complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular add-ons and simple to operate. You might also choose a more robust, key-operated deadbolt.
• Incorporate a door brace. A security bar or brace is a traditional method that provides another layer to your defense. These are often solid wood reinforcements fitted within the door’s lower track. Ensure it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

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

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all the entry points in your home with a comprehensive smart home in Naperville from Vivint. We offer all the tools you need, from surveillance cameras to door and window sensors. If something activates, you and your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be alerted immediately. Call (630) 864-6179 today to learn more and schedule your professional installation.