How to secure a sliding glass door

You adore your sliding glass door for the effortless access it creates to your backyard retreat and the bounty of light it brings in. These entryways are desirable features for any Medford home, but also come with security risks. See why they’re preferred by theives and what you can do to avoid break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in Medford

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to homeowners, they’re also tempting to intruders. There are some simple reasons why. To begin with, they are typically made more for utility than security. The majority don’t have deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are usually easy to circumvent. They’re also placed at the back of your Medford house, giving intruders a greater opportunity to approach undetected. 

How do trespassers bypass sliding doors?

When experiencing pleasant temperatures and lovely days, your sliding glass door may be the most-frequented entryway at your house. You might get in a routine of leaving it open so your little ones can effortlessly access the yard. Even if you fasten the door, determined prowlers can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Manipulate the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have standard locks that housebreakers can unlock with a simple tool.
• Break the glass. Thieves are more likely to shatter glass when they’re concealed from view. Countless sliding doors have thin glass that’s not difficult to smash.
• Remove the door from its track. Burglars may attempt to pry the door out of its track and move it away from the frame with a crowbar or another implement so they can slip through.

Even though it’s simple to circumvent sliding glass doors, it’s also easy to step up your security. See what you can do.

Better protect your Medford home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to enhance the security of one of your Medford property’s most at-risk doors, here’s how you can.

• Implement surveillance cameras. When prospective intruders spot cameras, they’ll probably find a less secure target. They never want to risk being recorded on camera. You can even get video cameras that actively deter thieves with lights and sound.
• Integrate security sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will sound if an unwanted guest attempts to come in or shatter the glass. Advanced systems will even notify you with updates to your security system’s mobile app.
• Upgrade the lock. Reinforce your basic flip lock with a deadbolt designed for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular solutions and easy to operate. You could also incorporate a sturdy, key-operated deadbolt.
• Install a reinforcement bar. A door brace is a traditional method that provides one more layer to your defense. These are typically solid wood or metal supports placed within the door’s lower track. Ensure it’s measured properly for a secure fit.

Open the door to a new level of security with a Vivint smart home in Medford

Better defend your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with a fully connected smart home in Medford from Vivint. We offer all the tools you need, from video cameras to door and window sensors. If something trips, you and your round-the-clock monitoring agents will be informed immediately. Call (541) 697-3284 today to get more information and book your professional installation.