A keypad lock can be very handy, especially if you find it difficult keeping track of your keys! You can use this kind of lock on different types of doors including sliding doors.
A sliding door can be made secure with a keypad lock. In fact, it can be an efficient and hassle-free solution as it works very well with the mechanism of a sliding door.
But you must make sure you purchase a lock specifically for a sliding door, otherwise it won’t work.
If you’re considering making the switch to a keypad lock, this article is just right for you.
We’ve done our research to guide you on the advantages, disadvantages, as well as additional methods for making your sliding door more secure.
Can A Keypad Or Keyless Lock Make A Sliding Door More Secure?
The best way to make any door more secure is to put a lock on it. The usual way to go about this is to put a traditional lock on the doorknob.
However, there are many other locks and security systems as well. This includes deadbolts, mortise locks, padlocks, smart systems, and keypad locks.
You can use one lock or multiple locks to protect your home from theft or burglary. Plus. it also helps maintain your privacy within the house if you don’t like people coming in at once.
A keypad lock in particular is a common and popular choice for sliding patio doors as it is super practical and easy to use.
This works by punching in a numerical code on the keypad to release the bolt and enter your house. It is a safe choice for locks and has its own pros and cons.
Are Keypad Door Locks Safe For Sliding Doors?
Yes, keypad locks are absolutely safe for sliding doors and can even make them more secure in some ways.
But ultimately, there is no foolproof way to lock the house and make it completely failsafe. The best way to make your property safe is to use multiple lock systems or added layers of security.
Advantages Of A Keypad Lock
There are several different benefits of opting for a keypad lock, particularly for sliding doors. Let’s take a look at some of the main ones:
Keyless Entry
This method completely eliminates the need and use of keys to enter or exit the house and keep it secure.
This is very convenient because you don’t need to keep or carry your keys anymore. Plus, we all know the hassle one goes through in case the keys get misplaced or stolen.
Using a code is far easier and the users simply have to enter the chosen numerical code to be able to enter.
Higher Security
Keypad locks are usually pickproof because intruders can’t easily hack into the system or insert something into the lock to pick it.
The hardware system of a keypad lock deters the common methods of breaking into the house. This means added security for the homeowner.
Even if you suspect something, you can easily change the security code to something else in a few minutes.
Easy to Install
You don’t need to make any adjustments to the door or the frame to set up the local system.
It is a very easy system to install and most of the time, you don’t even need to connect the lock to a power source. You can easily opt for a battery-powered or mechanical keypad lock.
More Durability
Keypad locks are quite long-lasting and don’t wear down or break as easily as traditional keys do.
Disadvantages of Keypad Locks
Like any other technology, keypad locks also have their own loopholes and risks. Let’s take at the potential downsides of using these locks for your sliding door:
Code Hacking
Guessing the password is not easy at all but it certainly isn’t impossible. Hacking professionals or criminals can find ways to hack into such systems in ways one can’t expect.
Plus, there can be ways for people to snoop and see the code when you enter it. This is one big risk of solely using a keypad lock.
Forgetting Your Passcode
Although the chances are slim, this is still a possibility. It is mostly suggested not to keep important dates or numbers as your passcode as they are easier to guess. Keeping a random password is suggested.
However, having a completely random or complicated code means you will be more likely to forget it.
Writing down the code somewhere or sharing it with others can also be another threat to your own security.
Electric Problems
We also need to remember that some keypad lock system relies on electricity to work properly. If there is an ongoing electrical issue, your lock system may become vulnerable to attacks.
The issue with technology is that it can be unpredictable and fail for unknown reasons. So it is always recommended to have another backup system in place.
What Is The Cost of Keypad Locks?
You should know that keypad locks are usually more expensive than traditional locks. If a simple deadbolt costs around $20, a keypad lock will likely cost at least $50 or more for the most basic.
If you’re looking for a more heavy-duty keypad lock for commercial-grade use, the starting price is around $500.
How To Make Your Sliding Door More Secure
You can use additional methods to add security to your sliding patio door. This includes the following:
Alarm Sensor
One way to alert the owners if someone tries to illegally enter is using an alarm sensor.
With a sensor and magnet on the door or its frame, the alarm is activated whenever someone opens the door or window. It is recommended to place the alarm sensor on top or side of the sliding door.
You must ensure that the sensor and magnet are in close proximity when the sliding door is closed. The magnet should separate properly when you open the door.
Sliding Door Track Blocker
A sliding door is opened or closed when it moves horizontally along its tracks. One way to make the door much more secure when you’re away or asleep at night is to use a track blocker.
This essentially puts an obstacle in the door’s track and prevents the sliding motion required to open it. A blocker can help keep burglars from entering and can also act as a safety tool for preventing toddlers from wandering out.
Hook & Eye Latch
You can use a hook and eye latch on top of the keypad lock to make the door more secure. You simply have to hook the bar into the loop to lock the door.
This makes the process more hassle plus the physical use of the bolt makes it even harder for trespassers to break in.
Security Bar For Sliding Doors
A security bar can make your sliding door childproof and also blocks the door from potential burglars. The bar pivots up and down to lock and unlock the door.
When locked, it offers reliable protection as it is mounted in the middle of the door and keeps it jammed. Plus, it is also a visual deterrent and makes it harder to see inside. These bars are perfect for sliding doors.
Security Pin
A patio door security pin can help you lock the door from inside. These pins are usually made of solid steel which makes them durable and extremely tough.
You simply need to insert the pin into the retaining ring to prevent the door from sliding.
Anti Shatter Film For Glass Doors
One point to consider is that sliding doors can easily be smashed as they are made of glass. A simple solution is to apply an anti-shatter window film.
This film has a polythene coating that keeps the door from breaking apart. And even if a burglar manages to break the glass, the film makes it extremely difficult to enter.
Install A Security Camera
A security camera is another method of keeping an eye on a vulnerable spot like a sliding patio door.
Although they can be expensive and relatively difficult to install, they are worth an investment for those who prioritize security.
You should make sure the camera is not placed too obviously though. Potential intruders and burglars can easily mess around and make the camera useless if they spot it first.
There are literally hundreds of security cameras on the market now, all with various features and functionality, so it’s best to do your own research to find what is right for you.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a lock system for your sliding door, a keypad lock is highly recommended and has many features and benefits to offer.
The quality, toughness, and functionality of the keypad lock are important so we suggest investing in a high-end system from a reputable company.
Never compromise on security and don’t take any risks when it comes to the safety of your home and family.
