2023-12-28 7 min read David Thompson
The garage door is often called the "forgotten door" when it comes to home security. Yet it's one of the most common entry points for burglars, with many break-ins occurring through poorly secured garage doors. Taking steps to secure your garage protects not only your vehicles and stored items but also provides an additional layer of security for your entire home, especially if your garage has an interior door leading inside.
According to the FBI, approximately 9% of all burglaries involve entry through the garage. Thieves know that many homeowners leave their garage doors open, keep spare house keys in the garage, or have older garage door openers that can be easily hacked. The good news is that with a few simple steps, you can significantly improve your garage security.
Modern smart garage door openers offer features that older models simply can't match: - Real-time alerts when the door opens or closes, Ability to check status and control the door remotely, Automatic closing after a set time, Activity logs showing when the door was used, Integration with home security systems
Burglars prefer to work in darkness. Install bright, motion-activated lights inside and outside your garage. LED floodlights with adjustable sensitivity can illuminate your driveway and garage area whenever movement is detected.
Most garage doors have an emergency release lever (usually with a red handle) that allows you to open the door manually if the power goes out. Unfortunately, thieves can also access this lever by inserting a coat hanger through the top of the door. Install a zip tie or emergency release shield to prevent unauthorized access.
If your garage door or garage itself has windows, consider covering them or using frosted glass. This prevents potential burglars from peeking inside to see valuables or whether anyone is home.
- Use a keychain remote instead of a visor-mounted one, Consider using smartphone control instead of physical remotes, If you lose a remote, reprogram your opener immediately
Many garage doors have built-in slide locks, but they're often not used. Make a habit of engaging this lock whenever you'll be away for an extended period. For extra security, you can install an additional padlock or deadbolt.
A well-maintained garage door is a secure garage door: - Keep tracks aligned and clean, Replace worn springs and cables promptly, Ensure the door closes fully and seals properly, Test the auto-reverse safety feature monthly
The door leading from your garage to your home should be as secure as your front door: - Install a solid-core or metal door, Use a high-quality deadbolt, Add a door reinforcement kit, Consider a smart lock for monitoring
When going on vacation: - Don't leave the garage door open for extended periods, Use smart home features to occasionally open/close the door, Have a neighbor collect packages left in the driveway, Consider using a garage door timer that automatically closes after a set period
A visible security camera can deter would-be intruders and provide evidence if a break-in occurs. Place cameras to capture: - The driveway approach, The garage door itself, The interior of the garage, The interior door to your home
Perform a security check of your garage quarterly: - Test all locks and bolts, Verify the auto-close feature works, Check camera footage quality, Update smart system passwords, Inspect for any vulnerabilities
At Garage Door Gibsonton, we offer comprehensive security assessments as part of our maintenance services. Our technicians can identify vulnerabilities and recommend upgrades to keep your home safe. Call (813) 324-6792 to schedule your security assessment today.