When it comes to home security, one area that often gets overlooked is the garage. Since it’s typically not as visible as other entry points like front doors or windows, it can be an easy target for burglars. However, securing a garage door from the outside is just as important as any other part of your home’s security system. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to secure a garage door from the outside, with expert advice from Adv Garage Doors to keep your home safe and secure.
Why You Need to Secure a Garage Door from the Outside
A garage door is often one of the weakest points of entry into a home. Many garage doors can be easily manipulated or bypassed by experienced criminals. Whether it’s through a manual override, an unsecured remote, or simply by forcing the door open, the garage door is an easy target if not properly secured.
Most people use their garages to store valuable items like vehicles, tools, or household equipment, making it a prime area for theft. But there are other security concerns as well. An unsecured garage door could potentially offer access to the rest of your home, especially if it leads into the interior of the house. This makes securing the garage door from the outside crucial for the safety of your family and belongings.
How to Secure a Garage Door from the Outside: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Install a Robust Locking System
The first step in securing a garage door from the outside is ensuring it has a high-quality locking mechanism. Many standard garage doors are equipped with basic locks, but these are often not enough to deter burglars. To add an extra layer of security, consider upgrading the lock system.
Types of Locks for Garage Doors:
- Deadbolt Locks: A deadbolt lock provides an extra layer of security compared to a standard spring bolt lock. It locks into place with a metal bar that extends into the door frame, making it harder to force open.
- Slide Bolt Locks: These are installed along the bottom of the garage door and provide additional security. Slide bolts can be manually locked and unlocked from the inside or outside.
- Electronic or Keypad Locks: If you prefer a more modern solution, an electronic or keypad lock allows you to enter a code to secure the door. These locks eliminate the need for keys, making them a great option for people with busy lifestyles.
At Adv Garage Doors, we offer a variety of high-security locks to suit your needs and can help you install them for maximum protection.
2. Reinforce the Garage Door with Steel or Solid Materials
The material of your garage door plays a significant role in its overall security. If your garage door is made of a lightweight material like wood or thin aluminum, it may not provide adequate protection from break-ins. Reinforcing the door with solid materials such as steel or a heavy-duty composite can significantly improve its durability.
Why Steel is the Best Option:
Steel is incredibly strong and can resist attempts to break through the door. Additionally, steel is resistant to the elements, meaning it won’t warp or crack like wood. For extra security, consider installing a door with reinforced panels or additional steel bracing.
3. Add a Garage Door Security Bar
A garage door security bar is a simple yet effective way to secure a garage door from the outside. This bar runs horizontally across the bottom of the door and prevents it from being lifted or forced open. When you close the garage door, you simply slide the bar into place to lock the door securely.
There are various types of security bars available, including adjustable ones that can fit most garage doors. A good quality security bar will prevent burglars from gaining access, even if they try to bypass the locking mechanism.
4. Use a Garage Door Reinforcement Kit
Another effective way to secure a garage door from the outside is to install a garage door reinforcement kit. These kits are designed to strengthen the door’s structure and provide additional protection against forced entry.
A reinforcement kit typically includes a heavy-duty steel bracket that secures the garage door’s tracks to the door frame. This prevents burglars from trying to lift the door off its tracks or tampering with the mechanism.
At Adv Garage Doors, we can help you choose and install the right reinforcement kit for your garage door, ensuring that it’s as secure as possible.
5. Secure the Garage Door Opener
Garage door openers can be a significant vulnerability if not properly secured. Many criminals can gain access to a home by using a universal remote or by exploiting a weak point in the system.
Here’s how you can secure your garage door opener:
- Lock the Opener: Many garage door openers have a lock feature that allows you to disable the remote control. Use this feature when you’re not using the door to prevent unauthorized access.
- Change the Code Regularly: If your garage door opener uses a fixed code, change it regularly to prevent anyone from using an old code to access your garage. Many newer models use rolling codes, which change automatically each time the door is operated, making it much harder for thieves to gain access.
- Secure the Remote Control: If you keep a garage door opener remote in your car or home, make sure it’s stored in a secure location. Never leave it in plain sight, as burglars often target vehicles to steal remote controls.
6. Install Motion Sensors and Security Lights
To further secure a garage door from the outside, consider installing motion sensors and security lights around your garage. These features will deter burglars by alerting you to any movement near your garage door.
Why Motion Sensors and Lights Are Important:
- Motion Sensors: Motion detectors can trigger an alarm or alert you through a mobile app if someone is approaching your garage. This will give you time to respond before a break-in occurs.
- Security Lights: Bright security lights will make it difficult for burglars to approach your garage undetected. Lights that turn on automatically when motion is detected can also help deter criminal activity.
Adv Garage Doors can help you integrate security lighting and motion sensors into your garage for added peace of mind.
7. Install a Security Camera System
Another essential security measure is installing a security camera system. Cameras provide constant surveillance, and visible cameras can act as a deterrent to would-be criminals. Even if the burglar tries to tamper with the garage door, the footage will serve as evidence if a crime occurs.
Tips for Installing Security Cameras:
- Position cameras at key points around your garage door, including the front, back, and side entrances.
- Ensure the cameras have high-resolution quality to capture clear images and videos.
- Choose cameras with night vision capabilities so they continue to work even in low light conditions.
8. Maintain Your Garage Door Regularly
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that your garage door remains secure. Over time, wear and tear can weaken the door’s structure or locking mechanisms, making it easier for burglars to bypass.
Maintenance Tips for Garage Doors:
- Inspect the Door for Damage: Regularly check the door for any signs of damage, such as cracks or dents. Repair any issues immediately.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Keep the garage door tracks, springs, and rollers well-lubricated to ensure smooth operation and prevent parts from getting stuck or damaged.
- Check the Safety Features: Test the door’s safety features, such as the automatic reversing mechanism, to ensure they’re working properly.
9. Get Professional Help from Adv Garage Doors
If you want to ensure that your garage door is as secure as possible, consider hiring a professional service like Adv Garage Doors. Our team of experts can evaluate your current garage door security and offer personalized solutions to address any weaknesses.
Whether it’s installing high-security locks, reinforcing the door, or adding motion sensors, we have the tools and expertise to help you secure your garage door from the outside.
Conclusion
Securing a garage door from the outside is a crucial part of protecting your home and your belongings. By following these expert tips and investing in the right security features, you can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in. Remember that garage door security is not just about installing locks – it’s about reinforcing the entire system to make it as difficult as possible for burglars to gain access.
At Adv Garage Doors, we’re committed to helping you protect your home with top-notch garage door security solutions. Whether you need a new garage door, security upgrades, or routine maintenance, our team is here to assist. Contact us today for more information and expert advice on how to secure a garage door from the outside.
