Sliding doors provide an aesthetically pleasing and functional feature in many modern homes. However, they can also be a weak point when it comes to home security. 

Sliding doors are often targeted by burglars as they are relatively easy to force open or remove from their tracks. This can leave your home vulnerable to theft or invasion. As a homeowner, it is crucial to take steps to secure your sliding doors to protect your property and loved ones. 

This article will explore the common security threats associated with sliding doors and provide practical tips on how to improve sliding glass door security. 

 

Understanding the Security Threats

A sliding door lock is an excellent choice for homes, but it can also pose a security risk if not properly secured. Criminals can exploit various vulnerabilities in sliding doors to gain access to your home, including:

Poor Quality Locks: Sliding doors often come with basic locks that can be easily picked or manipulated. A good lock for sliding door should be of a high quality, but this is not always the case.

Weak Glass: The glass used in sliding doors can be a weak point and easily shattered, allowing intruders to gain entry.

Flimsy Frames: Sliding door frames can be easily pried open, particularly if they are made of weak materials.

Lack of Maintenance: Over time, sliding doors can become worn or damaged, making them easier to force open.

Easy Access: Sliding doors can be an easy target for intruders if they are easily visible or accessible, particularly if they are located on the ground floor.

Understanding the common security threats associated with sliding doors is crucial in taking proactive steps to secure your home. 

 

How to Improve Sliding Door Security

 

Upgrading the Locks

One of the most effective ways to improve the security of your sliding door is by upgrading the lock. Sliding doors typically come with standard latch locks, which can be easily compromised by intruders. The following are the best locks for sliding doors, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

The first option is a footbolt lock, which is a secondary lock that is mounted on the bottom rail of the sliding door. Footbolt locks can only be operated from the inside, making them more secure than latch locks. However, they are less convenient to use and can be difficult to install.

Another option is a keyed sliding door security lock, which provides an additional level of security. Keyed locks are installed on the door frame and can only be opened with a key. While they are more secure, they can be more expensive and may require professional installation.

Finally, a sliding door security bar is a popular and affordable option for improving the security of your sliding door. Security bars are placed on the inside of the sliding door and prevent the door from being opened from the outside. They are easy to install and remove, making them a convenient choice for homeowners.

 

Reinforcing the Glass

The glass used in sliding doors is often a weak point and can be easily shattered, allowing intruders to gain entry. To improve the security of your sliding door, consider reinforcing the glass with one of the following options:

Tempered Glass: Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is four to five times stronger than regular glass. It is also more resistant to thermal stress and impact, making it a popular choice for sliding doors. Tempered glass is designed to shatter into small, rounded pieces, which minimizes the risk of injury.

Laminated Glass: Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a plastic interlayer. If the glass is shattered, the plastic interlayer holds the pieces in place, preventing the glass from breaking apart. Laminated glass is more expensive than tempered glass but offers superior security and safety benefits.

Security Film: Security film is a transparent, adhesive film that is applied to the surface of the glass. It is designed to hold the glass together if it is shattered, preventing the glass from breaking apart. Security film is an affordable option for reinforcing the glass on your sliding door.

 

Installing Additional Security Devices

In addition to locks and reinforced glass, there are several other security devices that can be added to your sliding door to improve its security.

Door Alarms: Door alarms are small devices that emit a loud noise when the door is opened or tampered with. They are easy to install and provide an additional layer of security.

Motion Sensors: Motion sensors can be installed on the outside of your sliding door to detect any movement. If motion is detected, an alarm will sound, alerting you to potential intruders.

Cameras: Security cameras can be placed on the outside of your sliding door to provide visual surveillance of your property. They are a powerful deterrent and can help you identify potential intruders if a security breach occurs.

 

Improving the Frame

A strong and secure door frame is essential in preventing sliding doors from being pried open. To improve the security of your sliding door frame, consider the following tips:

Install Metal Plates: Metal plates can be installed on the door frame to reinforce weak areas and prevent forced entry. They are inexpensive and easy to install.

Add Screws to the Tracks: Screws can be added to the tracks of the sliding door to prevent the door from being lifted off the track. This is a common technique used by intruders to gain entry.

 

Proper Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your sliding door in good working order and to detect any potential security issues before they become a problem.

Clean the Tracks: Dirt and debris can accumulate in the tracks of your sliding door, making it difficult to open and close. Regularly clean the tracks to prevent buildup.

Inspect the Rollers: The rollers on your sliding door can become worn or damaged over time, causing the door to become unstable. Check the rollers regularly to ensure they are in good condition.

Check the Locks: Test the locks on your sliding door regularly to ensure they are working properly. If a lock is not functioning correctly, it may need to be replaced.

Look for Cracks: Inspect the glass on your sliding door for any cracks or chips. Even small cracks can weaken the glass and make it easier to shatter.

Check the Frame: Inspect the door frame for any signs of damage or wear. If the frame is compromised, it may be easier for intruders to force the door open.

Protecting your home from sliding door security breaches requires a multi-layered approach. By following the security tips mentioned above, particularly installing the best sliding door lock, you can significantly improve the security of your sliding door. For high-quality sliding door locks and other security solutions, visit The Lock Shop today.