7 Security Upgrades Every Commercial Glass Door Should Have
Discover seven important security upgrades for commercial glass doors, including laminated glass, access control systems, reinforced frames, and security film to help protect your business and storefront.
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Commercial glass doors create a clean, professional entrance for businesses while allowing natural light and visibility into the building. However, because glass doors are often located at the front of a property, they can also be a primary point of vulnerability if security measures are not in place.
Modern commercial door systems offer a variety of upgrades designed to improve safety, deter break-ins, and protect employees, customers, and business assets. Whether you operate a retail store, office building, restaurant, or medical facility, upgrading the security of your entrance can significantly reduce risk.
Below are seven important security upgrades every commercial glass door should consider.
Laminated Security Glass
Standard tempered glass is strong, but laminated glass offers additional security protection.
Laminated glass is made by bonding multiple layers of glass together with a durable plastic interlayer. If the glass is struck or broken, the inner layer helps hold the pieces together rather than allowing the glass to shatter completely.
Benefits of laminated glass include:
Increased resistance to forced entry
Glass remains in place even if cracked
Reduced risk of break-ins through shattered storefronts
Added noise reduction from outside traffic
Many businesses choose laminated glass for storefront doors because it provides an extra layer of protection without sacrificing visibility.
High-Security Commercial Locks
A basic lock may not provide enough protection for many commercial properties. Upgrading to high-security commercial locking systems can significantly improve door security.
Common security lock upgrades include:
Heavy-duty deadbolt systems
Restricted key systems
Keypad entry locks
Electronic access control systems
These locking systems help limit unauthorized access and give business owners greater control over who can enter the building.
Access Control Systems
Many modern businesses are moving toward electronic access control systems instead of traditional keys.
These systems allow doors to be unlocked using:
Keycards
Mobile phone access
Keypads with entry codes
Employee credentials
Access control systems offer several advantages:
Businesses can easily add or remove access permissions
Lost keys are no longer a security risk
Entry logs can track who enters the building and when
This type of system is especially valuable for office buildings, medical facilities, and commercial spaces with multiple employees.
Reinforced Aluminum Door Frames
While the glass panel is often the most visible part of a commercial door, the frame plays a critical role in overall security.
Weak or outdated door frames can make it easier for intruders to force a door open. Upgrading to reinforced aluminum storefront frames can strengthen the entire door system.
Reinforced frames provide:
Improved structural support
Better resistance to forced entry
Increased durability for high-traffic entrances
A strong frame ensures that the door and locking system function properly under stress.
Commercial Door Closers
Door closers are an important but often overlooked security feature. A properly functioning door closer ensures that the door automatically shuts and latches after each use.
Without a working closer, doors may remain partially open, which can create security risks.
Benefits of commercial door closers include:
Preventing doors from being accidentally left open
Ensuring locks engage properly
Reducing wear on hinges and hardware
In high-traffic buildings, heavy-duty closers are especially important to maintain reliable operation.
Security Film for Glass
Security window film is another effective way to strengthen glass doors without replacing the entire glass panel.
Security film is a clear protective layer applied directly to the glass surface. It helps hold the glass together if it is struck or broken.
Benefits of security film include:
Additional impact resistance
Slower forced-entry attempts
Reduced glass shattering
UV protection and glare reduction
For businesses that want to improve security while maintaining a clear storefront appearance, security film can be a cost-effective upgrade.
Security Cameras and Entry Monitoring
While not part of the door itself, installing security cameras near commercial entrances can dramatically improve overall building security.
Visible cameras act as a deterrent and help monitor activity around the storefront.
Security cameras can help businesses:
Monitor entrances during and after business hours
Record suspicious activity
Provide evidence in the event of a break-in
Improve overall safety for employees and customers
Many modern systems also allow remote monitoring through mobile devices.
Why Security Upgrades Matter for Commercial Entrances
Commercial entrances are often the most targeted point of entry for break-ins. Strengthening your door system with the right upgrades can significantly reduce vulnerability.
Security improvements help businesses:
Protect valuable inventory and equipment
Improve employee safety
Reduce the risk of property damage
Deter potential intruders
In many cases, combining several of these upgrades creates a much stronger overall security system.
When to Consider Upgrading Your Commercial Door Security
Businesses should consider upgrading their door security if they notice issues such as:
Outdated or weak locking systems
Doors that do not close or latch properly
Older glass that lacks security reinforcement
Increased security concerns in the surrounding area
Even small upgrades can make a significant difference in protecting a commercial property.
Final Thoughts
Commercial glass doors offer an attractive and welcoming entrance for businesses, but they should also provide reliable protection. Upgrading security features such as laminated glass, reinforced frames, access control systems, and security film can significantly improve the safety of your building.
Investing in modern door security helps protect your business, employees, and customers while ensuring your entrance remains both professional and secure. Contact Apex Door and Glass for safe commercial glass door services in Hampton Roads Virginia.