How to secure a sliding glass door

You love your sliding glass door for the bounty of light it lets in and the easy access it offers to your backyard. These entrances are desirable features for any San Francisco home, but also pose security risks. Discover why they’re targeted by theives and what you should do to stop break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are frequently targeted in San Francisco

As sought-after as sliding glass doors are to residents, they’re also attractive to intruders. There are a few straightforward reasons why. First and foremost, they are typically designed more for utility than security. The majority don’t use deadbolts, and their locking mechanisms are typically easy to circumvent. Prowlers also have a better chance of approaching undetected as the doors are located at the rear of your home. 

How do trespassers circumvent sliding doors?

During pleasant temperatures and sunny days, your sliding glass door could be the most-frequented doorway at your home. You may get in a pattern of leaving it unlatched so kids can readily access the backyard. Even when you lock your door, burglars can bypass it. Here’s how:

• Pick the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have non-keyed locks that housebreakers can force open with a common tool.
• Smash the glass. Home invaders are more likely to smash glass when they’re out of sight. Countless sliding doors have thin glass that’s not difficult to break.
• Remove the door from its track. Thieves might try to force the door off of its track and yank it away from the frame with a crowbar or other devices so they can squeeze through.

Despite the fact that it’s simple to get around sliding glass doors, it’s also not hard to step up your security. Discover what you might do.

Better protect your San Francisco home’s sliding glass door

If you want to improve the security of one of your San Francisco residence’s most vulnerable doors, here’s how to do so.

• Implement video cameras. When would-be thieves spot cameras around your house, they’ll likely try to find a less secure target. They won’t want to take the chance of being caught on camera. You can even choose surveillance tools that actively deter prowlers with audible and visual warnings.
• Use entrypoint sensors. Incorporate contact and glass break sensors within your whole-home security system. The alarm will go off if an unwanted guest attempts to come in or smash the window. Smart home systems will even alert you with communications to your security system’s smartphone app.
• Upgrade the lock. Reinforce your basic flip lock with a deadbolt manufactured for sliding doors. Foot bolt locks are popular add-ons and easy to use. You might also choose a heavier-duty, key-turned deadbolt.
• Install a security bar. A security bar or brace is a simple method that brings another layer to your defense. These are typically solid wood or metal reinforcements placed within the lower door track. Ensure it’s sized properly for a tight fit.

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

Better defend your sliding glass door and all your home’s entryways with a comprehensive smart home in San Francisco from Vivint. We have all the devices you need, from window and door sensors to indoor and outdoor cameras. If something triggers, you and your 24-hour monitoring experts will be notified immediately. Call (415) 969-9484 today to find out more and arrange your professional installation.