How to Secure a Sliding Glass Door

Key takeaways

• The top ways to secure a sliding glass door are:
  • Security cameras. Security cameras can be renter-friendly or may require drilling, depending on the model you choose.
  • Security sensors. Security sensors can also be renter-friendly or may require drilling, depending on the model you choose.
  • Sliding glass door deadbolt. These security locks are sturdier than the typical switch-type lock found on a sliding glass door.
  • Shatterproof window film. This is effective, cheap, and easy to use. This renter-friendly film keeps shattered glass from spreading if a break-in attempt occurs.
  • Security bar. These renter-friendly bars can be placed into the sliding door track, stopping intruders from opening your door.

Sliding glass doors are a stunning feature in any home. They bring in abundant natural light and offer a beautiful view of your backyard or patio. However, as much as we appreciate these doors' aesthetics and convenience, they often come with security risks.

The doors’ design and construction can be susceptible to unauthorized access, potentially making them an attractive target for burglars. Ensure your home’s safety and security by taking a few extra steps to fortify your sliding glass doors against any unwelcome surprises.

This page will cover security tips and practical advice for securing your sliding glass doors. From installing better locks to adding additional security devices, we'll explore various security options that suit your needs and budget.

How do burglars take advantage of sliding glass doors?

Sliding glass doors are a common target for burglars because they are often less secure than traditional doors. Criminals can easily spot a sliding patio door as a potential entry point to your home, especially because it is often located at the back of a home and is less visible from the street.

Many sliding doors have basic latch locks that burglars can easily manipulate or force open with a simple tool. In addition to weak locks, sliding glass doors often have thin, fragile glass that burglars can break with a hammer, rock, or other tool.

Burglars might even try to remove the entire sliding glass door from its tracks to gain access to your home. They may use a crowbar or other tool to lift the door out of its frame, creating a large enough gap for them to climb through.

This is why it’s important to take steps to secure sliding glass doors and make them less vulnerable to break-ins.

5 ways to secure your sliding glass door from criminals

Securing a sliding glass door can be a challenging task, especially since it doesn't have a standard door lock or a traditional way of opening. Burglars and intruders can force open a sliding glass door, making it a vulnerable access point.

However, the following strategies can secure every sliding glass door in your home and safeguard your home from unwanted entry.

Install security cameras

Installing exterior and interior security cameras can be a great way to improve the level of security in your own home and deter burglars from targeting your property. When burglars see visible cameras, they are more likely to move on to another target, as they know they are more likely to be caught on camera and identified.

When it comes to choosing a security camera system, invest in high-quality cameras that provide clear, high-definition video footage. This is where Vivint's home security cameras come in.

Vivint offers a range of high-quality security cameras with advanced security features, such as face detection and night vision. They also use lights and sounds to scare lurkers, which can help prevent break-ins before they happen. Plus, both indoor and outdoor cameras are equipped with video playback, two-way audio, and motion detection to keep you and your home safe.

Install security sensors

Security door sensors can provide an extra layer of protection for homeowners. These sensors can alert you to potential break-ins, such as broken windows or breached doors, providing peace of mind when you're away from your house or sleeping.

And when it comes to high-quality security sensors, Vivint has you covered. Vivint offers a range of smart sensors designed to detect unexpected movements, glass breaks, and more. These sensors are compact and can be placed at every entry point to your home. Plus, Vivint offers professional installation services along with your purchase to ensure your security sensors are installed perfectly.

The alarm system will sound and alert Vivint's 24/7 monitoring system if someone does break in. This means you'll have instant alerts and a quick response time if there's any suspicious activity around your home. Plus, wireless communication lets you receive alerts directly to your phone or other devices to stay informed from anywhere.

Install a sliding glass door deadbolt

Sliding glass door locks are typically flip locks, often flimsy and easily broken and making your home vulnerable to intruders. That's why it's a good idea to consider upgrading to a strong deadbolt lock that can withstand force and deter burglars.

You can use several types of deadbolt locking mechanisms to secure sliding doors. For example, foot bolt locks attach to the bottom of the door and operate by pressing a button with your foot. These bolts can provide an additional layer of security and make it much more difficult for someone to force the door open.

Another type of lock you can install is a deadbolt that opens with a key. These security locks are sturdier than flip locks and can be a great option for those wanting to ensure the safety of their home. A key-operated deadbolt keeps your sliding door secure and your family and possessions safe.

Apply a shatterproof window film

Even with sturdy locks, burglars may still try to break the glass of a sliding door. One solution to this is to apply a shatterproof window film. This film is available in rolls and easily applies to the door’s glass. It has a strong adhesive that bonds to the glass, making it impact-resistant. If the glass does crack, the film prevents it from shattering into small pieces.

This solution is effective and easy to install and remove. Frosted security window film options can also help decrease the visibility of valuables inside your home, further preventing a break-in.

Use a security bar

While securing your door and reinforcing the glass are effective measures, there is always the possibility that an intruder could break the lock. That's where a security bar comes to the rescue.

A door security bar is a great device that adds extra reinforcement and makes it difficult for anyone to open your door, even if they manage to tamper with the lock. It's usually a sturdy wooden rod that you put inside the bottom door track to prevent the door from sliding or opening.

You can find wooden dowels or purpose-built security bars at hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers. Ensure the security bar is the appropriate length to fit snugly in the track when the door is closed to prevent any movement. Regularly inspect and maintain the security bar to ensure it works, as wear and tear over time could affect how well it functions.

Learn more about monitored home security systems from Vivint

While securing your sliding glass doors is an essential step in protecting your home, it's crucial to remember that a comprehensive home security system is a great defense against potential threats. Fortunately, Vivint offers a range of innovative solutions that can help you safeguard your home and loved ones.

With Vivint, you can go beyond simply capturing criminals on camera; you can actively prevent crimes from happening in the first place. Vivint offers a connected system of security sensors, cameras, doorbells, locks, and more, all seamlessly integrated into a centralized hub.

With 24/7 monitoring, intrusion detection, and threat deterrent features like lights and sound, Vivint ensures your home remains safeguarded whether you're inside or away. Moreover, you can easily control the system through voice commands, putting you in charge of your smart devices.

So, take the next step in securing your home and explore Vivint’s customizable security packages today. Give us a call at 855.822.1220 to speak with a home security specialist.