Having an automatic garage door opener allows for great convenience and simplicity while streamlining your daily routine. However, when it comes to garage security your garage may be lacking.
You probably have access to your automatic garage without even using the remote. There is also the same chance that burglars have that access too. Your garage door can be easily opened from the outside if you have a hanging emergency string that is attached to a lever. Simply pull that string when you have a power outage and the door opens.
Now let’s look at it from the other point of view. You can simply insert a coat hanger by prying open the rubber coating around the top of your automatic garage door and pushing the hanger through.
Then, you hook the hanger onto the release lever and pull down; similar to what you would do with your car when your keys are locked inside but in this case pulling down instead of up, as far as garage security goes, this is a big red flag and an eye-opener to more security risks.
What to do?
1/ Tint Your Windows
The first step you can take to boost your garage security is to tint your windows. This is a fast and inexpensive way of stepping up the level of security on your automatic garage door, and it’s simple too. You can purchase a tint application kit online or at your nearest auto or hardware store.
2/ Install a Secure Shield
The Secure Shield will increase garage security by preventing anyone from using the release cord to open your automatic garage from the outside. Cut off the knob on the cord. Then, you attach the metal lock box onto your garage’s carriage assembly. Align it and lock it down, then you are all set.
3/ Use a Power Lock
If you really want added garage security you can install a power lock. The power lock basically deadbolts your garage door every time you open and close it. You just press the remote key and when the door shuts, it will lock like a deadbolt. The automatic garage door power lock is very sturdy with heavy duty metal.
4/ Don’t Use Apps
Using a phone or tablet app that remotely opens and closes your garage door is not good for garage security. Anyone with access to a toy store can break into your garage via your Android or iPhone app. All an intruder needs is a simple toy from Toys "R" Us to hack into your garage. Garage door models from the early 2000’s can easily be broken into even without the smartphone app by using the same digital frequency.
Installing a wireless keypad is a great step for more garage security. This will ensure that only you or those with access to the code like close family members will get into your garage. Just don’t forget the code or give it out to those you can’t inherently trust.
5/ Add Lighting
Installing extra lights in and around the garage will definitely help against potential burglars. Adding lights along your walkway is not only great for garage security but it enhances your homes aesthetic too. You can also put in some ground lighting along your driveway to lighten up the area.
If that doesn’t work you can put up a motion sensor that illuminates your whole driveway when someone comes close. This will scare off most thieves. Plus you will feel safer when arriving home late at night.
6/ Security Camera
Installing a security camera to see what goes on outside of your garage door will make you feel at ease, especially when you are gone for long periods of time. This simple trick is a must-have nowadays for your garage security plan.
What else can you do?
Suppose none of these remedies are right for you or perhaps they are not in your budget at the moment. Don’t worry there are simple no-cost measures that will help too.
First, you can simply turn off your emergency release feature. That guarantees your protection against any thieves with coat hangers. While doing this you can also remove the pull cord from the emergency release lever.
Some other things you can do are things like stowing your garage door remote when you aren’t using it. Locking it in the glove compartment or middle console while away from the car is best. However, if this isn’t possible at least keep it out of sight. Don't stick the remote on your visor while your car is unattended. That is the worst place for it.
See our guide about these best garage door opener.
When you leave town for a short trip or a vacation turn off the power unit. This combined with making sure thieves can’t use the coat hanger is a smart tool to enhance your garage security while away. Furthermore, it is always a good idea to have your neighbors keep an eye out for any suspicious activity while you are away.
Lock the door to your house
People with entrances through their garage door into their home make this mistake every day. They feel safe leaving their home door open because the garage door feels like a fortress barrier when in reality it's not even close.
Burglars count on this and most of the time they are right. So you should always remember to lock the entrance to your home no matter what. Think of it as the last saving grace or the last line between you and the bad guys.
