How to Secure a Glass Door

A home burglary can leave a family feeling vulnerable and afraid, but taking security precautions can offer some peace of mind. One area of concern to many homeowners is sliding-glass doors leading to the outside. Unaddressed, they can be a weak point in home security, but with the right measures you can make this part of your home much more secure and deter potential burglars.

Things You'll Need

• Deadbolt door lock
• 2-by-2-inch wood
• Decals
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Install a deadbolt. Most sliding glass doors have a latch built in, but it isn't the same thing as a lock. A latch can be forced far more easily than a lock.

2. Place a length of wood in the track behind the sliding door inside the house as a blocking device. A 2-by-2 is sturdy and should fit in the track. Use a length that fits the space snugly. That way, even if someone opens the lock from outside, the door still won't slide open.

3. Place clearly visible decals on the glass door advertising a security alarm system, a beware of dog notice, or a neighborhood block watch.

4. Adjust the door rollers for a tight fit. A sliding door can be lifted off of the track if the rollers are not properly adjusted. The rollers can be adjusted with a screwdriver.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have wood blockers, devices known as "charley bars" are available. These fold down when in use and up out of the way when not in use.

References

• Crime Doctor: Home Security
• Trivia Library: How to Protect Your House from Theft Securing Doors