Yes, you can lock or latch a sliding door for your privacy or security.
There are some locking handles that put a pin in the floor.
What we normally use is a cane bolt. It is what it sounds like.
It’s like an old man’s cane that he walks with, but it’s scaled down a a little bit.
It’s mounted to the front of the door and it slides down into a receiver that’s mounted in the floor.
It’s not preferable, because you have to have a hole in your floor.
You can use a flush bolt, which is the same idea, but a little bit smaller.
If you can close your panel against something, like a jamb or a wall, you can use a pocket door latch, or something like that to actually lock and latch the door.
We have a handle, made by MWE, one of the companies that makes our stainless steel sliding door hardware, that actually starts at the bottom of the door and runs up about 4 feet.
It’s got a mechanism at the top of the handle that, that when you actuate it, it shots a pin into the floor.
That actually has a way to operate it from both sides.
It comes either with just a thumb latch or they can make it keyed so that you can lock it and secure it.
You have a big handle on the door.
It does stick out into the opening.
You can have the handle that locks on just one side, but then the lock won’t be operable from both sides.
If you need to be able to lock it from both sides, then you’ll have a handle on both sides and if that’s the case, then you’ll have to stop the door just before the handle hits the jamb, so the door will stick into the opening by 3 or 4 inches.
There’s are also what are called “slide locks”, which are mounted to the jamb and slide into the door to lock it in place.
It’s a bar. There’s a plate that’s mounted on the inside face of the door.
The bar slides into it and locks it in place.
They are mostly for privacy, for things like bathrooms and bedrooms.
Not really a keyed entry.
They can be accessible from both sides. It depends on the installation.
If your job calls for a lock or latch, give us a call so we can discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do burglars break into patio doors?
Burglars typically force sliding doors by lifting them off tracks, prying the frame, or breaking glass. Poorly secured doors can be jimmied with screwdrivers or crowbars. Older sliding doors are especially vulnerable due to weak locks and worn tracks. Glass breakage is common since standard patio door glass isn’t security-rated, making reinforcement and proper locking mechanisms essential for protection.
What types of locks work best for sliding patio doors?
Multi-point locking systems offer the best security by engaging at multiple points along the frame. Keyed locks provide exterior access control, while foot locks secure the bottom track. Security bars and pin locks add backup protection. For commercial applications, consider cylinder locks with master key capability. Choose locks rated for your door’s weight and frequency of use.
Can you add a lock to a sliding door that doesn’t have one?
Yes, most sliding doors can be retrofitted with aftermarket locks. Surface-mounted keyed locks, sliding door loop locks, and security bars can be installed without major modifications. Track locks and pin locks offer simple drill-and-mount installation. For commercial doors or heavy-duty applications, professional installation ensures proper alignment and door operation isn’t compromised during the retrofit process.
How do you secure a sliding door from the inside at night?
Install a sliding door security bar in the bottom track to prevent forced opening. Foot locks engage with your foot and secure the door at floor level. Pin locks drill through the door frame into the fixed panel. Security film on glass prevents shattering. For maximum protection, combine multiple methods like a keyed lock with a backup security bar or pin system.
Does a sliding door lock affect the door’s ability to slide smoothly?
Quality locks shouldn’t impair smooth operation when properly installed and maintained. Poorly aligned locks or incorrect installation can cause binding or resistance. Heavy-duty locks may require adjustment of door rollers or tracks to maintain smooth movement. Regular lubrication of both the locking mechanism and door tracks ensures optimal performance. Choose locks specifically designed for your door’s weight and usage frequency.
Why do sliding doors need different locks than regular hinged doors?
Sliding doors move horizontally on tracks rather than swinging on hinges, requiring locks that secure the door within its frame without interfering with the sliding mechanism. The door’s weight is supported by rollers, not hinges, so locks must work with this design. Track-based security and multi-point engagement are necessary since sliding doors can’t rely on traditional deadbolt and strike plate systems.
