2023-12-20 5 min read
Your garage door is one of the most common entry points for home burglars. A surprising number of break-ins occur through garage doors, either by exploiting old technology, finding unlocked entries, or simply taking advantage of doors left open. The good news is that with proper attention to security, your garage door can be one of the most secure points of your home.
Understanding why burglars target garage doors helps you protect against them:
If your garage door opener is more than 10 years old, consider upgrading:
Rolling code technology: Modern openers use rolling codes that change with each use, making code grabbing impossible.
Smart openers with alerts: Receive notifications whenever your door opens, so you know immediately if there's unexpected activity.
Auto-close features: Door automatically closes after a set time, eliminating the "forgot to close it" vulnerability.
Vacation mode: Disables remote signals entirely when you're away for extended periods.
The emergency release cord allows you to open the door manually during power outages, but burglars have learned to exploit it:
The vulnerability: Using a wire or coat hanger through the door gap, thieves can pull the emergency release and lift the door manually.
Solutions: - Install a garage door shield that blocks access to the release, Use a zip tie on the emergency release (break it in actual emergencies) - Install a smart lock on the emergency release mechanism, Keep the interior door locked and secured
Older or thinner garage doors can be kicked in or bent enough to allow entry:
- Upgrade to a door with reinforced panels, Install a heavy-duty bottom bracket, Add horizontal struts for rigidity, Consider impact-resistant doors for high-security areas
If your garage door has windows:
- Install window films that obscure visibility, Consider removing windows on street-facing doors, Add bars or grilles to windows, Use motion-activated interior lights that don't reveal garage contents
This seems obvious, but it's the most common security failure:
- Set up auto-close features, Use app notifications for open-door alerts, Develop habits: close the door as soon as you're in or out, Teach all family members proper door protocols
Garage door remotes are essentially keys to your home:
Don't leave remotes in your car: A car break-in gives thieves access to your home.
Use smartphone apps instead: Eliminates the physical remote vulnerability.
If you must use a remote: Carry it with you rather than leaving it in the vehicle.
The door between your garage and home needs attention:
- Install a solid-core door (not hollow) - Use a deadbolt lock, not just a doorknob lock, Consider a smart lock for monitoring, Install a door reinforcement kit, Never leave this door unlocked
Burglars often case homes before breaking in:
- Keep your garage door closed when not in use, Frost or cover windows if your door has them, Don't leave valuables visible when door is open, Consider interior lighting carefully, you want to see in, others shouldn't
Cameras deter burglars and provide evidence:
- Smart garage door cameras with two-way audio, Motion-activated recording, Cloud storage for footage, Integration with doorbell cameras and security systems
Additional detection layers:
- Motion-detecting lights inside and outside the garage, Door sensors tied to your home security system, Glass break sensors if your door has windows, Vibration sensors that detect tampering
Automation that enhances security:
- Automatic closing at specific times (bedtime, etc.) - Scheduled opening for regular activities, Integration with smart home routines, Geofencing that closes the door when you leave the area
A well-maintained door is a more secure door:
- Regular inspections: Check for gaps, worn parts, or damage - Prompt repairs: Fix problems immediately, a sticking door might be left open - Weatherstripping: Good seals prevent prying and viewing - Lock maintenance: Keep any manual locks clean and functional - Spring care: Proper spring tension keeps the door stable
If you notice signs of tampering:
1. Don't enter the garage or home, call police first 2. Document any damage with photos 3. Check surveillance footage if available 4. Contact your garage door professional to assess and repair damage 5. Consider security upgrades based on the attempted entry method
At Garage Door Company Dublin, we help homeowners assess and improve their garage door security. Our services include:
- Security assessments and recommendations, Modern opener installation with rolling codes, Smart opener upgrades with monitoring capabilities, Door reinforcement and repair, Emergency release protection installation, Integration with home security systems
Don't wait for a break-in attempt to address garage door security. Contact us today for a security assessment and learn how to better protect your home and family.