8 Expert Strategies to Safeguard Your Garage Door and Preserve What's Within

While not all garage doors are created alike, many of them tend to be quite heavy—and unexpectedly susceptible to break-ins. Actually, garages represent one of the primary entry points for intruders into homes, which means your garage door might greatly profit from additional security measures. This observation comes from criminology and criminal justice professor. James Lynch , at the University of Maryland, told GudangMovies21 Many of us neglect to secure the side doors of our garages, or might even leave the garage door open following a busy morning.

Less frequently, criminals attempt to mimic signals from garage door openers or search for vulnerable entry spots instead of targeting the stronger main entrance. Luckily, with appropriate enhancements to your garage, these concerns become irrelevant. This guide will demonstrate the steps you should take.

1. Switch to an intelligent garage door system

A smart garage door Substitutes former entry mechanisms with intelligent alternatives that connect to your Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and smartphone applications for enhanced management. This allows you to create timetables, receive alerts when your garage door remains open, and manage the door remotely—typically at a cost below $100. Additionally, these setups enable you to establish countdowns for automated closure (such as after 30 minutes).

A lot of advanced garage door openers can link up with voice-activated helpers or home security networks. Make sure to verify their compatibility with your present garage setup prior to making a selection. Chamberlain MyQ Smart Garage Hub - $30 Is a budget-friendly upgrade choice, or you may opt for a complete motor replacement similar to this one. silent Chamberlain MyQ variant ($257) . But you can shop and compare various excellent alternatives too.

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2. Connect your garage door to a smart plug.

The issue with intelligent garage doors lies in their retrofits; these usually function solely with more recent garage door versions. Given that garage doors may endure for many years, this excludes numerous potential users from benefiting. However, an alternate solution exists. Should your garage door be connected to a standard electrical outlet (usually found on the ceiling near the motor unit), you might consider exploring this option instead. setting up a smart plug attachment like this all-purpose Leviton plug ($28) .

Responses from a smart plug regarding your garage door might differ slightly, but generally, they enable you to turn off the motor entirely when you leave to prevent anyone from manipulating it to open. A few models might let you operate the garage door by toggling the motor on and off remotely (although this isn’t always reliable). This adds an additional layer of security if you’re concerned about unauthorized access. more persistent thieves .

3. Install an intelligent locking system for your garage entry door

Side garage doors or interior entry points often serve as common targets for thieves because people frequently neglect to secure these entrances properly. Additionally, these doors usually come equipped with less robust locking mechanisms and typically do not include deadbolts, making them simpler to break into—a preferred method among burglars.

Transform this vulnerability into a security win by arming garage doors with a a smart lock system that allows monitoring and locking capabilities From anywhere, you can also set locking schedules or use pass keys. Smart lock handles similar to this one are available. Schlage Encode model ($240) That works without needing a deadbolt as well, providing your home with comprehensive security.

4. Set up a door opener that uses a rolling code

Contemporary garage door controllers employ something known as a "rolling code," which involves an electronic signal that alters each time it’s utilized. This mechanism stops unauthorized individuals from intercepting and replicating the signal using devices like signal imitators or counterfeit wireless openers.

If your garage door is over 10 years old, it might lack a rolling code system. In such cases, consider getting a newer model. Those who prefer avoiding app maintenance don’t necessarily require cutting-edge, Wi-Fi-enabled technology; they only need this key improvement. Upgrading your garage door opener’s remote could help you save significantly. using a novel universal framework , such as This $25 Genie remote with its four buttons .

If you're unsure whether your garage door opener employs a rolling code, take off the cover. If it’s still utilizing the small tab mechanism internally, then it does not feature an electronic rolling code.

5. Secure the garage windows (possibly install some blinds as well).

Should your garage door feature windows—particularly sizable ones beside it—they might attract intruders intending to enter or create trouble. We recommend equipping these windows with locks and keeping them securely closed. While you might prefer opening them during summertime use of the garage or when pursuing hobbies inside, generally ensure they remain locked shut.

If you're concerned about others peeping through the window, we recommend getting an affordable roll-up blind like This blackout model costs $30. This feature enables you to obstruct the window whenever desired and allow sunlight in during your time spent in the garage.

6. Utilize a track lock if needed.

Garage door track locks consist of straightforward bolts that you can attach to the wall next to your garage door. These bolts fit into slots within the tracks where the door moves. Once engaged, they prevent anyone from lifting the door manually with force. This serves as an effective security measure when you’re away for extended periods like during long vacations. You can locate them for approximately $15. .

Extra note If you reside in an extremely chilly region, freezing temperatures might cause the metallic elements of your garage door to become fragile. While track locks typically do not break easily, forcing the door open may result in critical parts snapping. This is particularly true for the main spring on older models. Just remember, prevention is generally the most effective strategy.

7. Install a surveillance camera equipped with floodlights

According to our survey One out of every four Americans knows somebody whose package has been stolen. These instances of theft might heighten security concerns, which could potentially be addressed with appropriate solutions. floodlight security camera It will be ideal when placed above the garage door, serving multiple purposes simultaneously. This model has the capability to sense movement and identify human presence before sending notifications whenever someone comes near. The same applies to similar models like this one. Wireless Arlo floodlight camera ($160) may activate intense LED lights upon someone's approach, typically providing sufficient warning to deter intruders.

These cameras come with live view features allowing you to check if someone is approaching the side of your garage. They also include two-way audio functionality enabling you to communicate from afar, even in unrecognizable areas. Although facial recognition might not be essential, it’s an option to consider. similar to ADT's Trusted Neighbor program but featuring a Google Nest camera Allow the camera to identify known faces as well. At minimum, you can set up the camera to verify whether the garage door has been left open.

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8. Avoid storing highly valuable items in your garage.

If you’re genuinely worried about a burglary at your garage, refrain from storing valuable possessions within it. Take stock of what’s currently inside your garage to identify any costly items present. Should you absolutely have to store expensive belongings such as premium tools or high-value equipment, consider taking extra security measures. You can utilize a residential intelligent safe. such as this versatile Yale safe featuring Bluetooth technology ($250) to keep them protected.

For further assistance with securing your home, check out our articles on deterring burglars , home security myths debunked , and the top self-install home safety solutions for an easy upgrade.

Initially released on January 24, 2025, at 5:00 PM Pacific Time.