How to Improve Sliding Door Security with Hardware | Options for Your Patio Door
Author: John Collins - Managing Director
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External sliding door hardware (handles, locks, etc.) are essential not only for practical purposes, but for improving security for your home too. If you aren’t satisfied with the level of security your patio door hardware provides, you can either opt for new handles and locks, or choose new doors altogether that come with extra security features, such as laminated glass and anti-lift mechanisms.
In our guide, we will explore what hardware can improve sliding door security, and how hardware in general contribute to heightened security for your home. We will also discuss if you can change your sliding door lock, and the importance of maintaining your hardware.
In this guide:
Discover how to improve safety in your home through your sliding doors
Find out how the right hardware can make your sliding door more secure
If your lock is suffering from wear and tear, you can replace it
Maintenance is essential to improving the security of your sliding doors
We answer some common queries
What Hardware Could Improve My Sliding Door Security?
Improving the security of your sliding doors is essential for peace of mind and home safety. While our Status and Supreme sliding doors come with high-quality, integrated locking systems as standard, there are additional hardware options and security features that can further enhance protection.
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Many premium sliding doors are fitted with multi-point locking mechanisms. These secure the door at several points along the frame, making it much harder to force open compared to a traditional single-point lock.
Additional Door Locks
While our external sliding doors come fully equipped, some homeowners opt for secondary sliding door locks as an extra deterrent. These are typically installed at the bottom or top of the door and can provide added resistance against forced entry.
Reinforced or Laminated Glass
Choosing toughened or laminated glass improves both safety and security. Laminated glass includes a protective interlayer that holds the glass together if shattered, making it more difficult for intruders to gain access.
Security Bars and Anti-Lift Devices
Adding a security bar or anti-lift device can help prevent intruders from lifting the door out of its track. These devices act as a physical barrier, especially effective when used in conjunction with internal locks.
Browse our Supreme external sliding door collection here.
How Does Hardware Contribute to Sliding Door Security?
The quality and design of sliding door hardware play a crucial role in safeguarding your home. From locks to tracks, every component contributes to the overall strength and security of your sliding door system.
Modern sliding patio doors are typically fitted with robust integrated locking systems. These locks are built into the door and engage securely with the frame, helping to prevent the door from being forced open. Multi-point locks, in particular, secure the door at several points, offering greater resistance against tampering. Our sliding patio doors are tested to PAS 24-2012 regulations for enhanced security.
The track system is also essential not only for smooth operation but also for security. High-quality, well-fitted tracks reduce the risk of the door being lifted out of place. Also, strong aluminium or timber frames enhance the structural integrity of the door, making it harder for potential intruders to break in.
Although our sliding doors are supplied with a standard handle design (with colour options available), the handle still contributes to security by operating the locking mechanism. A well-designed, sturdy handle ensures the lock engages properly and remains tamper-resistant.
You can start building your custom Status sliding doors here.
Can I Change the Lock of My Sliding Door?
Yes, it is possible to change the lock on your sliding door, particularly if the existing one becomes faulty or damaged. Replacing a worn or broken lock is an important step in maintaining the overall security of your home.
Our external sliding doors are designed with security in mind and come pre-fitted with advanced locking systems. The Supreme collection features multi-point locking systems, which secure the door at multiple locations along the frame, providing excellent protection and resistance against forced entry. The Status collection, on the other hand, includes interlocks, which offer a strong, secure connection between door panels when closed, adding an extra layer of defence.
If your existing lock becomes compromised, a qualified installer or locksmith can typically replace or repair the locking mechanism. However, because the locks are integrated into the door system, it’s important to ensure that any replacement is compatible with the original door design and hardware. Using non-compatible parts may affect the door’s functionality and could void the warranty.
If you have concerns about the performance of your lock, we recommend getting back in contact with us to assess the issue and suggest the appropriate solution.
Explore the Status patio door range here.
How Important is Maintenance of Sliding Door Hardware?
Regular maintenance of sliding door hardware is essential for keeping your doors secure, smooth to operate, and long-lasting. Benefits of regular maintenance include:
- Ensuring locking mechanisms work effectively: Hardware such as multi-point locks and interlocks rely on precise alignment and smooth movement to function properly. Dirt, debris, or wear can prevent the locks from working optimally, reducing their effectiveness and potentially compromising security.
- Preventing track and roller issues: The track and roller system is central to how your sliding door opens and closes. Over time, dust and grit can build up, leading to resistance, sticking, or even damage. Cleaning the tracks regularly and checking for obstructions helps maintain the ease of use and ensures that the door seals correctly.
- Prolonging the lifespan of important components: Handles, fixings, and locks are subject to regular use. Occasional lubrication of moving parts and tightening of loose fixings can help prevent wear and keep the hardware operating as intended.
- Protecting security performance: Hardware that isn't maintained can weaken the overall security of your sliding door. For example, if a locking system becomes stiff or misaligned due to lack of maintenance, it may not secure the door properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of lock is best for a sliding patio door?
Multi-point locking systems are considered one of the most secure options for sliding doors, as they secure the door at multiple points along the frame. Our Supreme sliding doors are equipped with multi-point locks as standard, offering enhanced protection.
Are Vufold sliding doors secure enough without extra hardware?
Yes, our external sliding doors are designed with security in mind and include built-in features such as multi-point locks and interlocks. While additional security measures can add peace of mind, they are not essential for a secure installation.
Can I change the lock if it becomes damaged or faulty?
Yes, the lock can be replaced if necessary. It’s important to use a compatible replacement and have it fitted by a professional to ensure the door continues to operate safely and securely.
Will changing the handle improve security?
Our sliding patio doors come with a fixed handle design (with colour options available), which is integrated with the door’s locking system. Changing the handle alone is unlikely to improve security and is not necessary for most homeowners.
What type of glass is best for security?
Laminated or toughened safety glass is ideal for improving sliding door security. These options make the glass more resistant to breakage and harder to penetrate, especially when combined with strong framing and locks.