Garage Door Security: Preventing Break-Ins and Burglaries

For many homeowners in the Houston area, the garage door is the "front door" of the house. It’s where we park our cars, store our tools, and enter our homes after a long day. Unfortunately, burglars know this too. A garage door can be a major weak point in your home’s security if it isn't properly maintained or equipped.

Your garage door should be able to protect your belongings in your home, and not be a liability. Here are the most effective ways to secure your garage and keep your family safe.

Upgrade to a "Smart" Opener

If you are still using an opener from ten years ago, you might be at risk of "code grabbing," where thieves use devices to intercept your remote's signal. Consider upgrading to a smart opener for better security.

• Rolling Code Technology: Modern openers (like the LiftMaster models we install) use "Rolling Codes." Every time you press the button, the code changes. The remote and the opener are always in sync, making it impossible for a thief to duplicate the signal.

• Smartphone Alerts: With myQ technology, your phone will alert you the second your garage door opens. You can also check if you remembered to close it while you're sitting at work or on vacation.

Don’t Leave Your Remote in the Car

Many people park their cars in the driveway and leave the garage remote clipped to the visor. If a thief breaks your car window, they now have a "key" to your entire house. Use a keychain remote or, better yet, use the smartphone app on your phone. 

Frost or Tint Your Windows

Windows look great on a garage door, but they also allow the outside to look into your garage if the windows are clear..

It’s a good thing you don't have to get rid of the glass! We can install frosted, tinted, or mirrored glass that lets the sun in but keeps prying eyes out. Or we can even tint your clear window (like automobile window tinting) if you still want to be able to see outside.

Install a Side-Lock or Automatic Lock

If you’re going out of town for a while, you can manually slide a "deadbolt" lock through the track. However, for everyday security, we recommend the Automatic Garage Door Lock. This device works with your opener and automatically drives a power bolt through the track every time the door closes. It’s like a deadbolt for your garage that you never have to remember to turn.

The manual deadbolt/slide lock is often the reason some homeowners damage their garage door. They forget the slide lock is engaged and they will use the automatic opener.

A disengaged manual slide lock for a residential sectional garage door

Security is all about layers. A sturdy, well-maintained door from Element Doors and Garages combined with modern smart technology is the best way to ensure your home isn't a target for theft.

If you’re concerned about the age of your opener or the strength of your current door, let’s get it checked out. We can perform a safety inspection to give you total peace of mind.