Recommendations for securing sliding, patio door?


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Old 03-05-17, 03:28 PM
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Recommendations for securing sliding, patio door?

The only caveat is that this door is often used so we'd like something that is quick to disengage/re-engage.

A DIY solution would be nice as well.
 
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Old 03-05-17, 03:40 PM
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Simple method I see people do all the time is to cut a piece of closet rod to fit loosely behind the door.
 
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Old 03-05-17, 05:05 PM
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There is no way to really secure a ground level patio door. You can use something to wedge inside to hold the door but being in the security business.... I've seen the burglars break the door and come right thru.
 
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Old 03-06-17, 02:36 AM
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The most effective is the dowel in the door track. They do make metal rods that do the same thing, that pivot up out of the way, when not needed. Otherwise, if someone is willing to break the glass, that's the best you are going to get.

Security system wise, a contact on the door and a glassbreak and/or motion detector in the room is as good as it gets.
 
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Old 03-06-17, 03:02 AM
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Most any wood that will fit in the track [many use a broom handle cut to length] works best. Most sliding glass door locks can be jimmied.
 
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Old 03-06-17, 08:59 AM
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Thanks for the advice, everyone. I think we'll go with a dowel (or a broom stick) and attach another dowel (or long handle of some sort) so that bending/reaching down each time is not necessary.
 
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Old 03-06-17, 04:23 PM
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There are foot operated locks that attach to the sliding part and act like a deadbolt, or the manufactured version of a broom handle is called a "Charlie bar" - it attaches to the frame and swings up into a catch on the sliding part. As far as people breaking through the glass, there are security films that you can install (better ones can be installed by professionals) that pretty much laminate the glass, preventing someone from smashing through it. They WILL get through it eventually with enough whacks, but all but the most determined crackhead will bail when it doesn't shatter on the first hit. Getting through it involves too much noise and effort.
 
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Old 03-06-17, 04:59 PM
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Great advice...will definitely look into these solutions, thanks!
 
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Old 03-06-17, 09:31 PM
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Just put a foot operated latch on my door here. Had an L shaped dowel in the bottom track, but it became a bit of a pain and had to be stored. No mods of any sort to the door is the main advantage. Thought about the type that swings up and latches out of the way, but those are about $16 and kinda commercial ugly IMO.

Went with the foot operated for $5.00, ordered online from HD. Ship to store and picked up 6 days later. May still stock them at your local store. It's actually hand operated since I mounted it at the top out of the way and where a cat or kid couldn't accidentally release it. Also less visible from outside. It locks the fixed and sliding panels together.

Cheap fix and works well. Takes a drill, some bits and a screwdriver to install.

Prime-Line Patio White Step-On Sliding Door Lock-U 9879 - The Home Depot
 
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Old 03-06-17, 09:39 PM
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The most effective is the dowel in the door track
Need to also check that the door can not be lifted up and out of the track. If so something to insert and fill that gap is needed.
 
 

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