Most burglaries are opportunistic in nature, meaning criminals spot a weakness and act on it immediately. Unfortunately, your sliding patio doors fall under that category, so securing them properly is non-negotiable.
A lot of people think sliding doors are naturally secure, but that’s not actually true. The locks on these doors aren’t always as tough as you would believe, which can make it easier for burglars to get in.
Here’s how to improve your patio security so you discourage attempts at break-ins.
Don’t Underestimate Sliding Door Security
As we’ve said, the locks on these doors aren’t always as tough as you’d think. Sometimes, they can be opened pretty easily with simple tools. Plus, some of these doors are so light that they can be lifted off their tracks, making it easy for someone to sneak in.
So, if you’ve got them, you definitely want to beef up their security. For that purpose, consider adding anti-lift devices or upgrading to stronger locks.
It’s a smart move to regularly check and upgrade the security on your sliding doors to keep them secure and protect against break-ins.
Strong Door Frame Matters, Too
Think of it as the backbone of your home’s security. Sure, having a sturdy lock is crucial, but if the frame is weak, that completely nullifies its purpose.
Intruders can easily tamper with or break through a flimsy frame and gain access to your home. So, what can you do then?
First, consider robust materials like solid wood or metal for the frame. These are your best bets for standing up to unwanted visitors. Adding galvanised steel brackets can make the frame even more resistant, making it a real headache for anyone trying to mess with it.
And don’t forget about anti-burglary hinges—they’re the best way to stop anyone from removing your door from the frame.
Additional Security Enhancements
Adding sliding door bars and security films provides some extra protection. Let’s break it down in detail:
- Sliding Door Bars. They’re usually made of metal and are adjustable to fit various door sizes. The bars are also easy to install and can be a real game-changer in keeping intruders out.
- Security Films. Adding them to your patio doors makes them tougher to break. If someone attempts a break-in, these films give you more time to react. Look for options that are thick and provide UV protection for some extra durability. They’re really easy to apply, which makes them a quick and effective way to bump up your security.
Outdoor Lighting for Enhanced Security
Exterior lights play a big role in keeping your sliding doors safe by warding off intruders. When your garden or porch is nicely lit, it becomes hard for anyone to hide in the shadows, making it tricky for them to sneak up unnoticed.
Motion sensor lights are especially handy as a would-be burglar deterrent. They flick on when someone approaches, giving you a heads-up and making unwanted visitors think twice about sticking around.
Keeping your outdoor lights in tip-top shape not only boosts your home’s security but also adds a lovely touch to your garden or porch. Well-placed lights can highlight the best features of your space, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Community Engagement and Security Awareness
Building a safer neighbourhood starts with forging strong community connections. When neighbours stay informed and band together, they can deter local crime and improve overall home security.
Form a chat group and share news with your neighbours that promotes good safety practices. Getting involved in a neighbourhood watch, for example, is a great way to strengthen these connections.
By participating, you not only improve overall safety but also build stronger community bonds. So, get to know your neighbours, swap phone numbers, and begin to notice the difference.
Standing together with your community will create a more secure environment and make would-be burglars think twice about doing break-ins in your area.
Conclusion
Keeping your sliding doors safe is all about looking at outdoor security from different angles. Just assess your space properly and determine what makes sense for your individual setup.
By acting now, you’re not just protecting your home, but you’re helping make the whole neighbourhood safer.
So, make the necessary changes and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve done everything in your power to secure your property.
