Top Security Tips to Protect Your Garage and Home
2023-12-10 7 min read
Your garage door is the largest entry point to your home and, unfortunately, one of the most vulnerable. Studies show that a significant percentage of home burglaries involve entry through the garage. The good news is that with the right precautions, you can significantly improve your garage security. Here are our top tips to protect your home.
1. Don't Leave Your Garage Door Open
This seems obvious, but it's the most common security mistake. An open garage door is an invitation for opportunistic thieves. Even if you're home, a quick grab-and-go theft can happen in seconds.
Solutions: - Install a smart opener with auto-close features, Set a timer to remind you to check the door, Use motion-activated lights as a visual reminder
2. Secure the Emergency Release
The emergency release cord that lets you manually open the door during power outages can be exploited by thieves. Using a coat hanger through the top of the door, they can pull the cord and open your door in seconds.
Solutions: - Install an emergency release shield, Use a zip tie to secure the cord (easy enough to break in a real emergency) - Consider a smart opener with a secure manual release
3. Upgrade to a Modern Opener
Older garage door openers use fixed codes that can be easily intercepted and duplicated. Modern openers use rolling code technology that changes the code with each use.
If your opener is more than 15-20 years old, upgrading provides: - Rolling code technology, Vacation lock mode, Timer-to-close features, Smart connectivity for monitoring
4. Secure the Service Door
If your garage has a service door (the regular door to the outside), it should be as secure as your front door.
Recommendations: - Use a solid core or metal door, Install a quality deadbolt, Add a door reinforcement kit, Consider a smart lock for access logging
5. Reinforce the Door Between Garage and House
This door is your last line of defense if someone enters your garage.
It should have: - A solid core construction, A quality deadbolt lock, A reinforced strike plate with 3-inch screws, Self-closing hinges (if code requires)
6. Frost or Cover Garage Windows
Don't let thieves case your garage. If they can see expensive tools, bikes, or vehicles, your garage becomes a target.
Options: - Apply frosted film to windows, Use curtains or blinds, Install windows higher on the door where visibility is limited
7. Install Motion-Activated Lighting
Well-lit areas deter criminals. Motion-activated lights startle would-be intruders and alert you to activity.
Place lights: - Above the garage door, Near service doors, Along the driveway approach
8. Use a Garage Door Timer
Even with the best intentions, we forget to close the door. A timer-to-close feature automatically closes the door after a set period.
9. Secure Your Remote
A garage door remote in your car is convenient for thieves who break into vehicles.
Solutions: - Use a keychain remote instead of a visor clip, Program your car's built-in HomeLink system, Use a smartphone app instead of a physical remote
10. Install a Security Camera
Visible cameras deter crime, and footage can help identify criminals and recover property.
Modern options include: - Battery-powered wireless cameras, Smart doorbell cameras, Integration with garage door openers (like LiftMaster's Secure View)
11. Don't Share Access Codes Freely
Be cautious about who has your garage door code or remote access.
Best practices: - Change codes periodically, Use temporary codes for service people, Delete old codes when access is no longer needed, Review access logs regularly if you have a smart opener
12. Vacation Mode
When you're away for extended periods: - Enable vacation mode on your opener (disables remotes) - Unplug the opener for ultimate security, Have a trusted neighbor check on your home, Use a timer for interior lights visible from the garage
Regular Security Audits
Periodically walk around your garage with a "burglar's eye view": - Can you see valuables through windows? - Are all entry points secure? - Is lighting adequate? - Are cameras functioning?
At Garage Door Oakville, we can assess your garage door security and recommend upgrades to keep your family and property safe. Contact us for a security consultation.