The Ultimate Guide to Securing Your Sliding Glass Door

Sliding glass doors are a popular feature of any home, and for good reason! They help open up a space, let in light, and allow for easy access in and out of the house. However, such doors also allow easy access for intruders, too. 

So, how can you secure your sliding glass door without compromising the look of your home? We’ll go over it all in this guide.

Understanding your sliding door’s vulnerabilities

Exterior sliding glass doors can be one of the most vulnerable entryways into your home. Not only does their transparency give intruders a clear view into your home, but they aren’t too hard to break, either. 

Sliding doors that aren’t properly secured can be lifted off their tracks and removed from the wall by an. If that trick doesn’t work, some intruders may resort to taking a hammer or rock to shatter the glass and gain entrance. Intruders are well aware of these tricks, which means you need to stay one step ahead by evaluating how vulnerable your door is. To do this, examine the quality of the glass, the strength of the door’s locks, and the frame's integrity.

Key steps to secure your sliding doors

Without further ado, it’s time to learn all the different ways you can secure your sliding glass door. These are the key steps to secure sliding glass doors effectively:

• Shatterproof window films offer a cost-effective way to reinforce the glass of your sliding door. These films hold the glass together even when shattered, making it more difficult for intruders to gain quick access. They also provide added protection against accidents and adverse weather. Best of all, installing shatterproof window films is a relatively simple process. You can apply the film directly to the glass surface, creating a protective layer that enhances the door's resilience.

• Next, you’ll want to have the right locks in place. Choosing the right locking mechanism is essential for sliding glass doors. Consider these options:

  • Mortise and hook style locks embed into the door frame and provide robust security when engaged.

  • Double-bolt locks offer enhanced strength by securing the door at both the top and bottom.

  • Rim locks are surface-mounted and provide additional locking support.

  • Loop locks are simple yet effective, preventing the door from sliding open.

  • Security bars and barricades provide physical reinforcement and are especially useful when you're away.

• Retractable shutters offer both security and privacy benefits. When closed, they create a physical barrier that can deter intruders. Because they don’t offer that much light, consider installing automated retractable shutters that will automatically close when you’re away from home. 

• Retractable security gates for sliding glass doors provide an even more robust barrier against intruders. They come in various styles, including vertical lift gates, horizontal sliding gates, and accordion-style gates, allowing you to choose the design that suits your preferences. Security gates often include keyless entry, easy operation, and durability. They offer an additional layer of security while allowing ventilation and light flow when needed.

• Impact-resistant glass further enhances your sliding glass door's security. This type of glass is designed to withstand heavy impacts without shattering, making it exceptionally challenging for intruders to breach.

• Entry sensors are discrete, small pieces of technology that you can affix to any window or door, sliding glass door included! Entry sensors will sound if any unauthorized person gains access to your home via the sliding door. 

• Alarm systems are excellent deterrents. While their presence alone can discourage potential burglars, in the case of sliding glass doors, it’s good to have an alarm system in addition to securing your door with the above methods. These days, there are many alarm systems to choose from—both DIY and professionally installed—so you can choose what best fits your needs. 

Maintenance and Regular Checks

Now that you’ve implemented those security measures, it’s important to maintain the security of your sliding glass doors with ongoing maintenance and regular checks. Maintenance ensures that all your security features remain in optimal working condition, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

To do this, we’ve provided you with a checklist to help conduct these checks:

• Locks and latches: Examine all locking mechanisms, including mortise locks, double-bolt locks, or smart locks, to ensure they engage and disengage smoothly. Lubricate if necessary.

• Glass: Check the glass for cracks, chips, or other signs of damage. If any panes are damaged, replace them promptly with impact-resistant glass for enhanced security.

• Tracks and rollers: Inspect the door's tracks and rollers for debris or obstructions. Clean them and lubricate them if needed to ensure smooth sliding.

• Weatherstripping: Check the condition of weatherstripping seals around the door frame. Replace any worn or damaged seals to maintain energy efficiency.

• Frame integrity: Examine the door frame for signs of wear, rot, or damage. Repair or replace any compromised sections for added security.

• Lighting: Ensure that outdoor lighting around the door is functional, providing visibility and deterring potential intruders.

It’s also a good idea to remove or hide any expensive or sentimental items that can be viewed through the sliding glass door. There’s no reason to unnecessarily tempt any snooping passerby! 

Secure your sliding door with SimpliSafe

Though there are numerous ways to secure your sliding glass door, an alarm system can help protect your entire house from burglary. With a smart home security system, you can add features like an entry sensor, smart lock or outdoor video camera, which can alert you before a burglar has a chance to manipulate that door. 

Start building your system today!