2023-12-28 7 min read David Martinez
# Essential Garage Door Security Tips for Homeowners
Your garage door is often the largest entry point to your home, making it a potential target for burglars. According to the FBI, over 9% of home burglaries occur through the garage. Taking steps to secure your garage door can significantly reduce your risk. Here are essential security tips every homeowner should know.
Modern garage door openers use rolling code technology, which changes the access code each time you use the remote. Older fixed-code openers can be vulnerable to code-grabbing devices.
If your opener is more than 10 years old, consider upgrading to a model with: - Rolling code technology, Smartphone connectivity, Automatic lock features, Battery backup
Smart controllers allow you to monitor and control your garage door from your phone. Features include: - Real-time alerts when the door opens, Ability to close the door remotely, Activity logs showing when the door was used, Integration with home security systems
The emergency release cord inside your garage allows you to open the door manually if the power goes out. Unfortunately, thieves can exploit this by fishing a wire through the top of the door to pull the release.
To prevent this: - Install a shield or cover over the emergency release, Use a zip tie to secure the release lever, Consider emergency release locks that require a key
Leaving your garage door opener in your car is like leaving a key to your home on display. Thieves can break into your car and gain access to your home.
Instead: - Use a keychain-sized mini remote, Use the opener button inside your car, Rely on a smartphone app
A well-maintained garage door is a secure garage door: - Replace worn weatherstripping that could allow prying, Ensure the door closes completely without gaps, Keep tracks aligned so the door can't be forced off, Test the auto-reverse safety feature regularly
Don't overlook other garage entry points: - Install a deadbolt on the door between your garage and home, Use reinforced glass or security film on garage windows, Consider window covers or frosted glass to prevent visibility, Install motion-sensor lights outside the garage
Good lighting is one of the best deterrents: - Install motion-activated lights outside the garage, Use an opener with a light that stays on for several minutes, Consider smart lights that can be controlled remotely
Going on vacation? Take extra precautions: - Unplug the garage door opener, Lock the door manually using the release lock, Have a neighbor keep an eye on your home, Consider a timer for interior garage lights
Position cameras to cover: - The front of the garage door, Any side doors, The interior of the garage
Install sensors that trigger your home alarm if the garage door is forced open.
For added security, consider: - Side lock reinforcement, Bottom seal reinforcement, Hurricane straps (which also add security)
At Garage Door Company Tampa, we offer comprehensive security assessments. Our technicians can: - Evaluate your current security measures, Recommend upgrades and improvements, Install security-focused openers and accessories, Ensure your door meets all safety standards
Your family's safety is our priority. Call us at 941-207-3496 to schedule a security assessment for your garage door system.