Patio doors are a fantastic feature in any home. They bring light into living spaces, create a sense of openness and allow easy access to the garden. Yet, as much as we love them, patio doors are also one of the most common weak spots in home security. Criminals often see them as an easy target. In fact, according to Office for National Statistics data, over 60 per cent of burglaries in England and Wales in 2023 involved access through doors or windows. Many of these cases happened because the locks, mechanisms or seals were worn or outdated. That is why homeowners need to take patio door security seriously. As a UPVC door repair specialist and locksmith with years of hands-on experience, I want to share what really makes a difference in keeping your home safe. These are not just theories, they are real-world upgrades and fixes that I have carried out for homeowners across the country.
The Vulnerabilities of Patio Doors
Before we talk about solutions, it helps to understand the risks. Patio doors, whether sliding, French style or modern bi-folds, often have large glazed areas. This creates a sense that they are easier to break into than solid doors. Sliding doors in particular are a favourite for intruders if they are old or poorly maintained. Worn rollers, tracks and locks mean the door can be lifted off its track with very little effort. Locks on older patio doors were often basic latch systems that offer minimal resistance to forced entry. Add in deteriorated seals, loose handles and thin glass and you begin to see why this is an area worth investing in.
Upgrade Your Locks – The First Line of Defence
One of the best upgrades for patio door security is fitting modern, high-security locks. Many patio doors use euro cylinder locks, and sadly, older standard models are highly vulnerable to lock snapping, drilling and picking. The fix is to upgrade to anti-snap cylinders tested to British Standard TS 007. These cylinders are designed with a sacrificial section, so if a burglar tries to snap the lock, it breaks away harmlessly without allowing access. Adding multipoint locking mechanisms is another major improvement. Rather than just one lock, these systems bolt the door into the frame at several points when you turn the key. It spreads the force across multiple positions and makes it far harder to jemmy the door open. At Repair UPVC, we specialise in replacing outdated or faulty patio door locks with anti-snap cylinders and multipoint locking systems. A professional installation ensures everything aligns correctly and operates smoothly, giving you both security and peace of mind.
Reinforcing Glass for Extra Strength
The glass in your patio door is another important security factor. Older units may still have single glazing or thin double glazing that can be easily smashed. Today’s toughened or laminated glass is designed to resist impact and delay entry, making it much harder for intruders to break through quickly. Laminated glass in particular holds together even when cracked, much like a car windscreen. That extra resistance can be enough to deter a burglar. If you have misted or cracked double glazing units in your patio doors, replacing them with modern security glass is one of the smartest investments you can make. It improves security, increases insulation and instantly gives your home a fresher look.
Strengthening Frames and Tracks
Patio doors rely on their tracks, rollers and frames to stay aligned and secure. When these wear out, the whole system becomes vulnerable. Rollers that no longer sit properly allow the door to be lifted off its track. Tracks that are bent or corroded mean the locking points do not engage as they should. This is why part of a proper patio door security upgrade involves inspecting and repairing these hidden but vital parts. Common fixes include replacing worn rollers with heavy duty versions, repairing or replacing damaged tracks, and ensuring the frame is properly anchored to the wall. At Repair UPVC, we often find that a combination of new rollers, a fresh track and a correctly aligned lock can transform a weak, rattling door into a strong, secure barrier.
Additional Security Features Worth Considering
On top of the main upgrades, there are several add-ons that can improve patio door security further:
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Security bars or anti-lift devices that prevent sliding doors being lifted out of place.
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Patio door security bolts that add extra locking points at the top or bottom of the door.
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Window film applied to glass to make it harder to shatter.
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Door restrictors that prevent over-opening and reduce strain on hinges.
None of these are expensive, yet they can add another valuable layer of protection to your home.
Why DIY Fixes Often Fall Short
Plenty of homeowners try to tackle patio door repairs themselves. While tightening a handle or cleaning a track is perfectly fine, security upgrades are best left to a specialist. Locks must be installed with precision, tracks aligned correctly, and glass fitted securely within the frame. A badly fitted lock is almost as bad as no lock at all, as it can give a false sense of security. Calling a professional not only saves time but ensures that your door is working to the highest standard. At Repair UPVC, we combine locksmith expertise with specialist UPVC knowledge, which means every repair and upgrade is handled with care.
The Link Between Security and Energy Efficiency
One thing that often gets overlooked is how security improvements often double as energy efficiency upgrades. When you replace old seals, warped frames or cracked glazing, you are not only making it harder for intruders to get in, you are also keeping draughts and cold air out. A well-fitted patio door reduces energy loss and makes your home more comfortable. According to Energy Saving Trust, upgrading windows and doors can save an average semi-detached home up to £165 per year on heating bills. So, by making your patio doors more secure, you may also notice a drop in your energy costs.
Taking Action Before It Is Too Late
The worst time to realise your patio doors are vulnerable is after a break-in. Many customers I meet tell me they wish they had upgraded sooner. A burglary not only results in loss of possessions but also brings stress and a lasting sense of insecurity in your own home. It is far better to act early and make sure your patio doors are up to modern standards. Think of it as an investment in your family’s safety and wellbeing.
Your Trusted Partner for Patio Door Security
Patio door repairs and upgrades require a mix of skills – locksmith knowledge for the locks, glazing expertise for the glass, and UPVC repair skills for the frames and seals. That is exactly what we offer at Repair UPVC. We do not just replace locks or seals, we look at the whole system to make sure every part of your patio doors is secure, smooth and reliable. Whether your doors are stiff to slide, rattling in the wind, or simply out of date, we can restore them to a high standard and give you confidence in their security.
Ready to Make Your Patio Doors More Secure?
If any of the issues I have mentioned sound familiar, now is the time to act. From anti-snap locks and new rollers to reinforced glass and draught proof seals, our team at Repair UPVC can carry out the upgrades you need. We are here to give you straightforward advice, quality repairs and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is properly protected. Do not wait until you have a problem – get in touch with us today and let us help you make your patio doors safe, secure and efficient.
Call Repair UPVC now or use our online form to request a free, no-obligation quote for patio door security upgrades and repairs.