Enhancing Your Home Office: Creative Solutions for Securing Sliding Glass Doors

As an entrepreneur, you understand how small setbacks can lead to big financial consequences. You’ve taken steps to protect your business online with security software, data encryption, and secure Wi-Fi networks. But have you considered the importance of physical security?

Many small businesses, about 52 percent, are home-based, according to Forbes.com. Even if you work out of a separate location, you likely bring your laptop home. That’s why home security should be a top priority.

Before investing a lot of money in an elaborate home security system, take a moment to identify vulnerable areas in your house. Sliding glass doors are often targeted by burglars because they can be easily lifted off their tracks or shattered without much noise.

Here are three simple ways to secure your sliding glass doors and protect your home business:

1. **Use a Track Blocker:** The simplest way to secure sliding glass doors is by placing something rigid and sturdy in the track to prevent the door from sliding open. Items like baseball bats, heavy wooden dowels, or two-by-fours work well. These don’t need to be the exact length of the track as long as they can be securely wedged in place.

2. **Apply Security Film:** Another DIY method is to use security film, such as 3M™ Safety & Security Film Ultra S600. While this film won’t stop a brick from breaking the glass, it holds the shards together, maintaining a barrier longer than unprotected glass. This additional time can deter criminals who are in a hurry.

3. **Install a Sliding Bolt:** Adding a sliding bolt to the door frame can prevent the door from moving, even if it’s lifted off its track—a common break-in method. Some manufacturers offer double-bolt locking systems for extra security.

By addressing these vulnerable areas, you can better protect your home and your business.