How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the abundance of sunlight it lets in and the convenient access it offers to your backyard retreat. These entryways are desirable features for any Reno property, but also present security concerns. See why they’re a target for intruders and what you can do to stop unauthorized entry.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Reno

As attractive as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also enticing to thieves. There are a couple of simple explanations. Primarily, they are commonly constructed more for function than security. Most don’t have deadbolts, and their locking systems are usually a cinch to circumvent. They’re also installed at the rear of your Reno residence, giving intruders a greater opportunity to approach without being seen. 

How do intruders circumvent sliding doors?

During nice temperatures and sunny days, your sliding door could be the most-utilized entry at your house. You might a routine of leaving it unlatched so your children can access your outdoor space on their own accord. Even if you lock your door, determined prowlers can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have standard locks that housebreakers can circumvent with a common tool.
• Break the glass. Prowlers are more inclined to shatter glass when they’re out of sight. The thin glass of numerous sliding doors is easy to shatter.
• Pry the door from its track. Criminals could attempt to pop the door off the track and move it away from the frame with a crowbar or other tools so they may fit through.

Although it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to boost your security. Discover how you can make it happen.

Better defend your Reno home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of the most susceptible doors in your Reno home, here’s how to do so.

• Implement video cameras. When potential thieves notice video cameras, they’ll probably try to find an easier target. They never want to risk being captured on camera. You can even choose surveillance tools that actively scare off thieves with sound and lights.
• Use entrypoint sensors. Install contact and glass break sensors within your integrated security system. The alarm will trigger if an unwanted guest starts to come in or smash the window. You’ll also receive an alert through your security system’s mobile app.
• Install a more secure lock. Complement your simple flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are fantastic add-ons and simple to operate. You can also get a heavier-duty, keyed deadbolt.
• Incorporate a security bar. A door brace is a simple approach that provides an additional layer to your protection. These are often metal or solid wood supports positioned within the lower door track. Make sure it’s designed properly for a snug fit.

Unlock the door to improved security with a Vivint smart home in Reno

Better protect your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with an integrated smart home in Reno from Vivint. We have all the equipment you need, from door and window sensors to video cameras. If anything activates, you and your round-the-clock monitoring specialists will be alerted right away. Call (775) 259-9515 today to find out more and book your professional installation.