Who makes a quality exterior patio door? Are some more secure than others? How hard is it to break the tempered glass to get in? My first thought was a french door style but If one fixed and one operable is better I’ll go with that. A slider is definitely out.
It will be serve as an entry/exit door to an unheated covered porch in Chicago. Also Our home is 80+ years old and we would like to keep the character of the house,
Wayne
Listeners write in about fireplaces and ask questions about sharpening hand tools, easier wiring upgrades, and fixing cedar siding.
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
Replies
We've had a Marvin
on our home now for 20 yrs. Works well, weather secure-ordinary deadbolt is the security.
There's a couple 3 point locking systems that might be considered more secure-Pella and Andersen.
What does it take to break tempered? One of those automobile hammers and of course the pc. of gravel expelled by a lawnmower. Usually breaks the first pane-another tap or rock for the second.
Calvin:
Thanks for the advice.
Wayne
We have a 34-year-old Andersen slider that's still in good shape.
Tempered glass is not security glass. Tempered glass is a bit tougher than regular glass but not that much -- the tempering just makes it break into small, relatively non-hazardous pieces when shattered. If you want security glass you'll have to order it (for extra $$).
A double French door with no center jamb would tend to be less secure than an single door. But partly it would just depend on available styles, since security doors will be a more limited selection than your garden variety doors.
Dan:
Thanks for the advice.
Wayne
If you are looking for security buy a wind code door with impact rated glass. That will stop most assaults but it ain't cheap..
Thanks for the advice.
Wayne
I've got a pair of Doug Fir Marvin french doors that have a center secure lock between them.
As far as the glass and security ... the glass isn't like your car windows ... can break fairly easily with a sharp (relatively) object like a hammer ... even though you might be able to take that same pane of glass and support it between sawhorses and stand on it w/out breaking (I've seen a picture of this).
On the other hand, you do have glazing options: laminated glass or wire glass. Both provide a much higher level of security and are common glass options available for you to order if this is a concern.
Last option (and least, by the way). Use security bars over the windows. Not what I might recommend unless conditions are extreme and I'm assuming (there's that word) they aren't.
door tip
Thanks I may be looking into the laminate glass.
Wayne
Secure Patio Door
If security and performance is important, take a look at our SecuraSeal Sliding Patio door. It features an integrated locking system that is far superior to a single or multi point latch hook system. Additionally, it sports a durable and high performing composite frame system. More info can be found at http://www.haddonwindows.com/secure_patio_door/default.htm
If you have any questions, just email us at [email protected]