How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the effortless access it provides to your backyard retreat and the bounty of natural light it welcomes in. These entryways are beneficial aspects of any Kansas City home, but also pose security risks. Discover why they’re a target for burglars and what you can do to avoid break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are often targeted in Kansas City

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also tempting to burglars. There are a couple of reasons why. First and foremost, they are generally made more for utility than security. The majority don’t have deadbolts, and their locking systems are usually simple to bypass. Prowlers also have a better chance of approaching without being seen as the doors are located at the rear of your home. 

How do intruders circumvent sliding doors?

When experiencing nice temperatures and sunny days, your sliding glass door could be the most-utilized entry at your home. You might get in a habit of keeping it open so your little ones can easily access the backyard. Even when you fasten the door, determined intruders can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. Many sliding glass doors have basic locks that burglars can circumvent with a simple tool.
• Smash the glass. Home invaders are more inclined to smash glass when they’re hidden from sight. The thin glass of many sliding doors is easy to smash.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars may attempt to pry the door out of its track and yank it away from the frame using a crowbar or another implement so they can slip through.

Despite the fact that it’s easy to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to boost your security. Learn what you can do.

Better protect your Kansas City home’s sliding glass door

If you’re ready to improve the security of one of the most susceptible doors in your Kansas City house, here’s how you can.

• Install video cameras. When prospective invaders spot surveillance, they’ll most likely try to locate a less protected target. They never want to risk being recorded on camera. You can even get surveillance tools that actively deter lurkers with sound and lights.
• Connect door sensors. Install glass break and contact sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will sound if an unwanted visitor tries to intrude or shatter the glass. You’ll also be sent an update through your home security cell phone app.
• Install a more secure lock. Replace or complement your simple flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are popular options and simple to operate. You can also choose a more robust, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A door brace is a simple method that adds another layer to your security. These are typically solid wood supports fitted within the lower door track. Make certain it’s designed properly for a secure fit.

Unlock the door to better security with a Vivint smart home in Kansas City

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all the entrances in your home with an integrated smart home in Kansas City from Vivint. We have all the tools you need, from window and door sensors to video cameras. If a device trips, you and your round-the-clock monitoring specialists will be informed instantly. Contact (816) 357-9576 today to get more information and schedule your professional installation.