Your Sliding Glass Door Lock is Totally Useless
Unlocking the Truth About Sliding Glass Door Security
As a seasoned professional in the Florida security industry, I feel compelled to reveal a well-kept secret: the locking mechanisms on most sliding glass doors are shockingly inadequate. These factory-installed locks, found on 99% of sliding doors in Collier County, offer minimal protection from unskilled burglary attacks. Frankly, they’re hardly worthy of being called “locks.”
Consider this scenario: a friend, client, or family member purchases a new home. The first security upgrade I recommend? Fortify your sliding glass door with a specialized vertical lock. Why? Because a few years ago, during a crime wave that struck a high-end gated community in North Naples, criminals effortlessly breached locked sliding glass doors, burglarized homes, and terrorized residents.
Now, let’s delve into the specifics. If you’re a typical Florida homeowner, chances are you have at least one sliding glass door. Perhaps you’ve taken some security precautions, like using a dowel or adhesive door stopper to prevent forced entry. But here’s the harsh truth: 99% of homeowners overlook the most critical upgrade—the sliding door lock itself.
Do these DIY tricks work? Unfortunately, the answer is a resounding “No.” A wooden dowel or similar makeshift solution may deter side-to-side movements, but streetwise thieves don’t play by the rules. They understand that a sliding door doesn’t merely slide horizontally; it also moves vertically. By lifting the door slightly, they can bypass that feeble lock and pop open the slider in seconds.
Here’s the technical insight: your sliding glass door operates on a track. To glide smoothly, it requires specific clearances—between the ceiling, door jams, and debris on the floor. These tolerances are essential for proper functioning and maintenance. Regrettably, they also allow savvy criminals to lift the door off its track from the outside.
How to Secure Your Sliding Glass Door
Enter “A” Locksmith—the experts in safeguarding Southwest Florida homes. Our professional lock technicians offer effective sliding door lock solutions. Our best-selling double bolt lock not only withstands side-to-side attacks but also thwarts up-and-down motions. Burglars face a tough choice: break the glass or move on to an easier target.
Picture this: a would-be thief strolls around the back of your home, attempting to lift the slider. If it remains steadfast, they move along. After all, career criminals prefer low-effort, low-noise endeavors. But don’t underestimate them—they’re watching online videos, learning new tricks. Stay ahead of the game by calling in the professionals at “A” Locksmith.
Our Sliding Glass Door Locks Add Another Layer of Prevention For Children’s Accidental Drownings & Balcony Falls
Our sliding door double bolt locks, when installed higher on the door, out of reach of young children can also be used to prevent little ones from accessing a pool, balcony, or lake. Included with each sliding door lock is a key that can be used to further childproof the lock so that the slider cannot open without your key. If you have sliding doors leading to your pool, balcony, or lake, our sliding glass door lock is a must-have layer for accidental drowning and fall prevention.