Sliding glass doors can be a stunning and functional design statement, but they also come with their own set of security concerns. According to LGF SYSMAC, one of the leading sliding door hardware suppliers in India, sliders feature weaknesses that are distinct from those seen in standard wood and steel doors. Many property owners know the risks associated with sliding doors and may be hesitant to have them installed on their property. There are, however, some quick and simple solutions you may take to protect the safety of your slider unit.

The first step is to identify a sliding glass door system's weak area. Then we'll take a look at how to reinforce a slider. We also discuss how to install new lock hardware or replace old lock hardware, as well as which sorts of locks are appropriate for securing these doors.

Why Sliding Glass Doors are considered Less Secure?

  • They are frequently left unlocked
  • They advertise the interiors of your house
  • They are made of tempered glass 
  • The locks on sliding doors are easily pick-able
  • They are often installed out of sight areas, like backyards, etc.

How Burglars Gain Access Through Sliding Glass Doors?

Before we discuss how to lock your sliding glass door, we must first consider how robbers can gain access. 

  • Bypassing the Lock - Most sliding glass door locks are just latches, as we briefly described above. Is that all you want to put between a thief and your valuables? The vulnerability of typical sliding door locks is demonstrated in hundreds of youtube videos from homeowner unlocking their sliding door. Hence, it is important to install latest the high-quality, reliable and durable sliding locks offered by reputed sliding door/window hardware suppliers. A few examples of sliding door locks offered by LGF SYSMAC are: Sliding lock with auto locking & snap-on fixing, a sliding lock with manual locking suited for balconies with snap-on fixing, and Dummy sliding handle with snap-on fixing, etc.
  • Lifting the Door Out of Its Frame - A burglar may physically pick up a sliding door, move it off of the tracks, and out of the way using a crowbar. Is that even possible? When the door was manufactured, how do you think it was installed in the frame? The thief is merely reversing the installation procedure.
  • Breaking the Glass - Finally, if a person is desperate enough, they may easily break the glass. But don't worry, the burglar won't be wounded because your door is made of tempered glass! (Can you tell we're sarcastic?)

Have you already dropped the idea of buying the sliding door you have been dreaming of like ages? We sincerely hope NOT. The best way to reduce risk is to recognise it, accept its possibility, and prepare for it with the help of a reliable partner like LGF SYSMAC. Buy a sliding door from any place but make sure you install it with a good, trusted and durable lock.

Can Sliding Doors Be Securely Locked?

The factory locks that come standard on sliding glass doors aren't always of the finest quality. The fastener and bolt mechanism don't even travel through the sturdier wood or metal frame to give adequate security on some door models with vinyl frames. A locksmith can assist in determining whether it provides adequate security. The lock may need to be reinforced or replaced.

Types of Locks for Sliding Doors 

So, after reading the above information you have decided upon changing the locks of your sliding doors or the fact that you have consulted a locksmith and are advised to change the lock, you need a mechanism that provides a higher level of security. Here are a few options:

  1. Two-Bolt Sliding Door Locks - A two-bolt locking system is a simple type designed to secure sliding doors. These locks can be found online or in a reputable slide and fold hardware supplier’s store. They are simple to install and may be mounted on the door at any height. When a two-bolt lock is switched to the locked position, a robust steel bolt is inserted into the frame. This system gives the latch an added layer of security.
  2. Auto Locks for Sliding Glass Doors - This new technology is changing the way we protect our houses. There are several types of auto locks for sliding doors, albeit only a few variants are now available. LGF Sysmac’s 287i, for example, is a keyless solution for locking and unlocking a sliding glass door. It may be turned on from both inside and outside the home. This sort of lock is usually more secure than ordinary slider door locks since it is stronger and is less prone to tempering. Plus, because it's so quick to open when needed, homeowners say they keep the door closed more often. In the event of a fire or other emergency, they are also easier to unlock than typical keyed lock mechanisms.

For more information on what security elements are needed for you to cherish your dream sliding door/windows and the various options available, visit https://www.lgfsysmac.com/product-category/sliding-windows-doors/sliding-locks-for-doors-windows/. For any queries, do feel free to write back to us in the comment section below.