Which patio doors are most secure?
When it comes to installing new doors, there are many things to consider. As well as thinking about the style and design aesthetic of your home, security is also an important factor.
Many homeowners are drawn to glazed doors. They let natural light pour into your home and enable you to enjoy the view – whether over the garden or further reaching. However, when compared with solid doors, large expanses of glass may make you feel more aware of protecting your home and family.
In this article, we’ll be comparing the security features of two of our most popular types of glazed doors. Specifically, we’ll be looking at what is more secure – patio doors or French doors.
French doors vs patio doors: which is more secure?
What are French doors?
French doors typically consist of two glazed doors that open from the centre point, either closing inwards (into the home) or outwards.
How secure are French doors?
The security of French doors depends on the type of glazing, as well as the overall quality of the doors and locking mechanism/s and how they have been installed.
Because French doors usually have multiple locking points (located along the door frame) they can be more secure than doors with a single-point lock.
What are patio doors?
Patio doors consist of framed glass panels that slide along two parallel, horizontal tracks to give access to your terrace, decking or garden.
How secure are sliding patio doors?
Sliding patio doors can be secure but this depends on the quality of the construction and installation of the doors and locking systems.
An additional drawback, when compared to a French door, is that sliding patio doors can be lifted off their tracks – especially if the locking mechanism is poorly installed or broken.
How to make French doors more secure
If you opt for French doors, here are some ways to boost their safety and security:
1. Quality installation
Poorly installed doors will be less secure, so it is vital that you opt for knowledgeable specialists.
2. Multi-point locking systems
These systems engage several different locking points along the door frame. This makes it far more difficult for an unwanted intruder to force the doors.
3. Reinforced glass
If we are your glazed door suppliers, the chances are that your doors will have reinforced glass as standard. Choosing laminated or tempered glazing will make it harder for burglars to break the glass and gain entry. These types of glass are much stronger and more resistant to impact than standard glazing.
4. Security film
When applied to your glazed panels, the clear membrane reinforces and makes it much more difficult to shatter the glass.
5. Home security systems
Although not specific to your new glazed doors, a home security system will incorporate sensors on your doors (and windows). This will act as a deterrent, but will also alert both you and the authorities if there is a break-in at your home.
For more advice on how to make French doors more secure, call and speak to a member of our friendly team on 01903 756699.
How to make patio doors more secure
Some customers worry that patio doors are vulnerable to intruders, due to their large glass panels. Here are some ways to make your patio doors more secure:
1. Qualified installers
We consider proper installation to be one of the most important aspects of door security. Even if a door is high-quality and secure, it can be completely compromised if it is badly installed.
2. Shatter-resistant glass
Already a standard feature of most of our glazed doors, the glass can be laminated or tempered to reinforce it and make it more difficult to break.
3. Secondary or keyed locks
Adding a secondary mechanism – like a sliding bolt or clamp lock – can give an extra layer of security to your doors. These options can stop an intruder from lifting the door off the track or forcing it open.
4. Security bars or braces
Bars or braces can be inserted in the tracks, to prevent the door from being opened from the outside. This is an ideal security measure if you are leaving your property unattended for a while, perhaps for your summer holiday.
5. Security systems or motion-detector lights
As with French doors, you might consider installing a security system that includes sensors on your doors and windows. This can give extra peace of mind, by alerting the police in the event of a security breach. Security lights are also a good way of improving security at home.
These extra steps can make your glazed doors more secure and provide greater protection for your home and family.
For more advice on how to make patio doors more secure, contact our knowledgeable team on 01903 756699.
For security glazed doors, call the experts
Here at Benchmark Windows, we offer an extensive range of high-quality glazed door options. As accredited members of the Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS), each installation project is carried out to a high standard and is guaranteed for at least ten years.
When it comes to what is more secure – patio doors or French doors – we can help you to have the design you want, with the security you need. With modern technology, quality construction and superior installation, our French doors and patio doors can be a safe and secure addition to your home.
To discuss our glazed door options, please call us today on 01903 756699. Alternatively, visit our spacious showroom in Lancing, Sussex, to see our full range of doors, windows and conservatories.
