Secure sliding glass doors may look the part, but how secure are they?
A set of sliding or french doors is a beautiful addition to any home, opening up your home and letting the outside in. What’s not to love, right?
Well, we’re sorry to disappoint, but glass doors aren’t as safe as you might think. In fact, the most inexperienced of burglars could force entry into your home with the most basic of tools. But don’t let that put you off – there are many ways to increase security, protecting your home, valuables, and loved ones.
In this article, we’ll provide you with several actionable tips to help you secure your sliding glass doors. Because, let’s face it, they look great – it would be a waste to get rid of them.
In This Article:
French doors vs. sliding glass doors – what’s the difference?
Although they may look similar, french doors and sliding glass doors are slightly different.
Most notably, french doors open like regular doors, swinging open up to 180 degrees. On the other hand, sliding glass doors, well, open with a sliding motion…
Due to the design, french doors are more secure than sliding glass doors, reinforced with hinges and a proper locking system.
How to secure sliding glass doors
Whether you’ve chosen french doors or traditional sliding doors, there are a few extra ways you can improve security:
- Choose secure sliding glass doors
- Use window film
- Add a deadbolt lock to your sliding glass doors
- Install a security camera
- Install a glass break sensor
We will now explain each of these in a little more detail below.
Choose secure sliding glass doors
If possible, we always suggest choosing a well-made, quality set of doors.
Not only will they last longer, but they’re typically more durable and have improved security.
This isn’t always possible for those on a budget, however. So, there are a few other tricks for securing sliding glass doors – keep reading to find out!
Use window film
Window film is a thin laminate applied to windows, doors, and other glass.
Essentially, it’s an additional protective layer, helping to not only reinforce your doors, but provide an extra layer of protection from the sun while also increasing privacy. (With an added tint, this stops burglars from seeing what’s in your home, further increasing security.)
Add a deadbolt lock to your sliding glass doors
Deadbolt locks are more secure than traditional locking mechanisms – this is because there is no spring, and it requires a key and handle to open.
Adding a deadbolt to your sliding glass doors is an inexpensive and relatively easy way to increase safety. However, you’ll likely require a locksmith to help install the new lock system.
Install a security camera
If you’re looking to deter crime, which, let’s face it, who isn’t, then a security camera or two is the way to go.
Ideally, you should install at least one security camera at the back of your property, in-view and watching over your sliding doors.
The presence of a camera is usually plenty to deter theft. Besides, if something is to happen, then you’ll have the footage to show the police, not to mention additional support for your insurance claims.
Glass break sensors
Finally, for additional security, you should consider installing a glass break sensor.
The glass break sensor provides 24/7 coverage and protection, alerting you if glass is shattered within a 25-feet radius.
Whether you’re at home, at work, or on vacation, alerts are sent directly to your smartphone. This is not only convenient but further increases security and allows you to act suitably in the event of a break-in.
So, just how secure are sliding glass doors?
Sliding glass doors are a great addition to any home, letting in natural light and providing a stunning view of your, hopefully, well-cared-for garden.
But just how secure are sliding glass doors, though? With a little added protection and preferably a deadbolt lock, your glass doors should have plenty of protection.
We’d definitely recommend installing window film for added privacy, and if you want to step it up a notch, then you can add a security camera and a glass break sensor.
