(MS) - According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Justice and FBI, there are more than 8,600 break-ins daily in the U.S., or one every 10 seconds. Most unlawful entry is through a doorway, with patio doors the point of entry in 22 percent of break-ins. If you feel your current patio door is not secure, replacing it with a new fiberglass patio door system will improve your home's security and provide enhanced protection from inclement weather.

"For years, patio doors have had the reputation of sticking in their tracks, not locking properly and being easy prey for burglars," said Hal Gardner, vice president of marketing for Therma-Tru Doors, which invented the fiberglass door industry. "Homeowners want better performance and more security, so we've introduced new hinged and sliding patio door systems that offer a high measure of security, style and performance."

To enhance the security of the patio area of the home, many Therma-Tru patio doors are offered with a multi-point locking system that engages the jamb at two or three points as well as other security-enhancing features.

In addition to security concerns, many patio doors are susceptible to air and water infiltration. To help ensure homeowners' comfort and trust in their patio doors, Therma-Tru offers several configurations of patio systems that have achieved a Design Pressure rating of 50. This means the system withstands structural test pressure of 75 pounds per square foot, equivalent to a 171 mph wind; allows no air infiltration under 25 mph winds; and prevents water penetration under test conditions equal to eight inches of rain per hour driven by a 54 mph wind. The system also includes a high-performance sill that resists rot and swelling, ensuring decades of consistent performance even in rough coastal climates.

When it comes to style, homeowners have many options. Therma-Tru's Fiber-Classic® and Smooth-Star® Patio Door Systems offer the ultimate in style, performance and durability. Both are available in a wide variety of sizes for new construction and remodeling, including hinged and sliding doors and 8-foot tall systems. The Fiber-Classic interior features realistic oak graining that can be stained or painted to match any décor. Smooth-Star systems deliver durability with the rich look of fine painted wood and they won't dent, rust or corrode like steel. Both are available in four popular exterior colors - White, Almond, Stone and Bronze.

In addition to Fiber-Classic and Smooth-Star, Therma-Tru offers the Slim-Line™ and SPD™ sliding patio door systems and the new PDF™ hinged patio door. To select the one that's right for you, Therma-Tru offers a custom Patio Door Configurator, a virtual design tool that takes the guesswork out of selecting the right door for your home. When you have found the perfect door for your home, you can print a complete shopping list for your local Therma-Tru dealer. The Patio Door Configurator is available only at www.thermatru.com.