How to secure a door with windows.

Deadbolt possibilities

The danger of having glass in or near your door is that potential thieves can break the pane and reach through to let themselves in without having to pick or break a lock. There are two ways to reduce the odds of these individuals being successful.

First, if your area’s building codes allow it, install a double-cylinder deadbolt. These require a key to lock and unlock the deadbolt on both sides of the door. That means that if the thief does break the glass, they’ll still need a key to get in. The risk you take with a double-cylinder deadbolt, and the reason they are regulated in some areas, is that they can make it more difficult to get out of the house quickly in the event of an emergency. If you choose to go this route, it is vital that your household has an emergency preparedness plan in place. so that everyone can exit the home safely, even when anxiety and distress are high.

Second, you can install a smart lock. The Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt as well as Schlage Encode Plus™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Lever have sensors to detect disturbances at the door. When the lock is connected to the internet and synced to a compatible smartphone app, you can then choose to receive a push notification to your phone if it registers that someone is trying to tamper with the door.

No matter what kind of deadbolt you choose, make sure it is properly installed and that the door is also constructed well enough to deter unwanted entry. Using screws that don’t anchor deeply enough or a door jamb of rotting wood can limit any lock’s effectiveness. This goes for any door, not just those with windows.

Enchance lighting around the door

Well-lit entryways discourage intruders, especially when dealing with doors featuring numerous windows. The strategic placement of motion-activated lights not only enhances visibility but also minimizes the likelihood of unauthorized access. By illuminating the surroundings, these lights create an unwelcome environment for anyone attempting to approach your home unnoticed.

Upgrade your window glass

Upgrading to laminated glass windows around your front door is a strategic move to significantly enhance security. Laminated glass consists of layers that are bonded together, making it more resistant to braking and shattering. This added durability creates a formidable barrier against potential intruders, deterring forced entry attempts. By investing in laminated glass, you not only bolster the structural integrity of your windows but also gain valuable peace of mind, knowing your front door is fortifies against security threats.

Install an alarm system

Installing an alarm system for your home is a highly beneficial step in bolstering overall security. The variety of alarm systems available allows homeowners to tailer their security measures to specific needs. From traditional monitored systems to modern smart home setups, the options are diverse. Alarm systems act as a deterrent, alerting you and authorities to potential threats, providing an extra defense against intrusions.

When planning to enhance the security of your home, especially when dealing with a door featuring windows, Schlage door hardware stands out as the perfect starting point. Renowned for its reliability and durability, Schlage offers a comprehensive range of products that provide robust physical security. Whether you're reinforcing entryways, upgrading locks, or incorporating smart technology, Schlage door hardware ensures a solid foundation for your home security strategy. Trustworthy and long lasting Schlage becomes the ideal choice when contemplating how to better secure your home, offering peace of mind that lasts.

Visit Schlage.com to see our wide variety of locks and door hardware that work to keep your home secure. You can also find more ways to improve your home’s overall security on our blog.