How to secure a sliding glass door

You cherish your sliding glass door for the effortless access it creates to your backyard retreat and the plentiful natural light it welcomes in. These entrances are desirable elements of any Los Angeles home, but also come with safety risks. Discover why they’re targeted by intruders and what you can do to stop break-ins.

Why sliding glass doors are common targets in Los Angeles

As appealing as sliding glass doors are to families, they’re also enticing to intruders. There are a couple of reasons why. First and foremost, they are typically designed more for function than security. The majority don’t have deadbolts, and their locking systems are typically easy to manipulate. Intruders also have a greater opportunity of approaching undetected as the doors are typically at the back of your home. 

How do trespassers bypass sliding doors?

When you have clear days and pleasant temperatures, your sliding glass door might be the most-used doorway at your house. You may fall into a routine of keeping it open so kids can access the backyard easily. Even when you secure the door, burglars can get around it. Here’s how:

• Jimmy the lock. Numerous sliding glass doors have standard locks that intruders can unlock with a common tool.
• Shatter the glass. Home invaders are more inclined to shatter glass when they’re hidden from sight. Some sliding doors have thin glass that’s not hard to shatter.
• Pry the door from its track. Criminals may attempt to pop the door off of its track and yank it away from the frame using a crowbar or another tool so they are able to slip through.

Although it’s simple to bypass sliding glass doors, it’s also not difficult to step up your security. Learn how you can do so.

Better protect your Los Angeles home’s sliding glass door

If you’re eager to boost the security of one of the most vulnerable entrances in your Los Angeles home, here’s how to do so.

• Implement surveillance cameras. When would-be invaders spot cameras, they’ll most likely try to locate an easier target. They don’t want to risk being caught on camera. You can even get surveillance systems that actively discourage thieves with sound and lights.
• Connect entrypoint sensors. Connect glass break and contact sensors within your comprehensive security system. The alarm will sound if an unwanted guest tries to come in or smash the glass. You’ll also be sent a notification through your security system’s cell phone app.
• Install a more secure lock. Replace or complement your basic flip lock with a sliding glass door deadbolt. Foot bolt locks are fantastic options and simple to use. You might also incorporate a more robust, key-operated deadbolt.
• Install a door brace. A door brace is a simple approach that provides another layer to your security. These are often metal or solid wood supports fitted inside the door’s bottom track. Make certain it’s designed properly for a tight fit.

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

Better safeguard your sliding glass door and all your home’s entry points with an integrated smart home in Los Angeles from Vivint. We provide all the tools you need, from cameras to door and window sensors. If a device trips, you and your round-the-clock monitoring specialists will be alerted right away. Contact (310) 861-9194 today to find out more and book your professional installation.