I have an unfinished walk-out basement that I mostly use for storage. We don’t go down there often. The basement has a few windows and a sliding door, and I want to secure it since we don’t spend much time there. I’m thinking of either boarding up the openings with plywood or using brackets to hold 2x4s across the openings so it’s not completely blocked off.
I’m leaning towards using 2x4s because they don’t block the windows or doors completely and would be easier to remove in an emergency. The plywood would block the entire opening, which might deter someone from attempting to break in. What do you think? Are there any pros and cons of these options? Or is there a better method I haven’t thought of?
Have you thought about adding metal bars outside the glass? They won’t stop someone from breaking the glass, but they would prevent them from entering. It might also make a potential intruder think twice about trying. Plus, you can still open the sliding door for air when needed.
A common trick for sliding doors is to cut a piece of wood (or even a broomstick) to fit in the track on the floor behind the door. This keeps the door from sliding open.
Derry said:
A common trick for sliding doors is to cut a piece of wood (or even a broomstick) to fit in the track on the floor behind the door. This keeps the door from sliding open.
I already use that method, but I’m more concerned about the glass breaking and someone being able to enter. Or, they could pry the door off the track.
If you don’t need to see the patio through the door, consider replacing the sliding door with a solid set of doors. Or, if you don’t need a wide entry, just frame it for a single 36" door.
If the basement is still unfinished but has plumbing for a bathroom, the builder might have added the sliding door thinking you’d finish the space. But if it’s just for storage, the slider is a weak point.
If the basement is finished with a bathroom, the sliding door is likely an emergency exit, so be careful when replacing it. You can always say the change is to improve storm protection and turn the basement into a ‘shelter.’
