If you live in Florida, your house likely has at least one set of sliding glass doors. After all, what better way to allow all that gorgeous Florida sunshine into your home? While they provide beautiful views, sliding glass doors are also notoriously susceptible to break-ins, presenting a substantial home security risk. Here is some helpful information and some quick answers on how you can protect your sliding doors.
Why are Sliding Doors So Vulnerable?
Sliding glass doors are use latches, not locks. Even inexperienced burglars can quickly overcome most factory-installed latches. Or they might simply lift the door off its track and out of the way, which usually doesn’t even require tools. Of course, a burglar’s favorite sliding door break-in tool is a regular old brick. One strong throw, and they’re standing inside your home.
So, how can you prevent burglars from using your sliding doors as a fast track into your home?
Tip 1: Use Blocking Bars
Insert a metal or wooden bar along your sliding door’s bottom track. Even if a would-be burglar defeats the latch, this physical barrier makes it impossible to push the door aside. The bar should be long enough to allow only a minimal opening, if any. Another option is a “Charlie bar,” a fold-down arm that blocks the door, usually at waist level, providing a more convenient interaction than bending down to the floor each time you want to open your doors.
Tip 2: Install a Security Pin
To prevent burglars from simply removing your door from the track, add a security pin. With your sliding door securely closed, drill a hole through the frame of the door that slides and into the frame of the stationary door. Be careful not to drill all the way through. Then, insert a hardened steel patio door pin to hold the two doors together. You don’t have to be particularly handy, just follow these instructions. You should also ensure your track and door rollers are in good condition.
Tip 3: Apply Shatterproof Film
Maintain your cherished views while improving security by applying shatterproof film to your sliding glass doors. Shatterproof film prevents burglars from making quick entry by breaking your door’s glass. Depending on your preference, security film can be transparent or tinted. It will even repel flying debris to help protect your home during hurricanes.
Tip 4: Get a Monitored Alarm System
Ultimately, no entry point, lock or barrier is completely foolproof. In addition to taking the steps outlined above, you should consider getting a professionally installed and monitored home security system. Glass break sensors are an excellent security system option for homes with sliding glass doors. And don’t underestimate the power of placing a “Protected by CPSS” decal on your sliding doors. Most burglars would rather take their chances with an unprotected home. We hope these quick answers have been helpful, and we’re happy to provide additional security resources to you.
For your free home security consultation, contact Crime Prevention Security Systems today.
Our team at CPSS looks forward to protecting your home, family and business. Call today for details! 888-961-4481.
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