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 most frequent entry points for intruders into homes. Therefore, enhancing the security of your garage door might be beneficial. This conclusion comes from studies conducted by criminology and criminal justice professors.
James Lynch
, at the University of Maryland,
told
Many of us neglect to secure the side doors of our garages, or might not bother closing the garage door after a rushed morning.
Less frequently, criminals attempt to fake signals from garage door openers or search for vulnerable entry spots instead of targeting the stronger main entrance. Thankfully, with appropriate enhancements to your garage, these concerns become moot. This guide will demonstrate the necessary steps to take.
1. Switch to an intelligent garage door system
A
smart garage door
Substitutes old 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 operate the door remotely—typically at a cost under $100. Additionally, these setups enable you to establish countdowns for automated closure (for instance, after 30 minutes).
A lot of advanced garage door operators can link up with voice-controlled helpers or home safety 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 cost-effective upgrade choice, or you might opt for a complete motor replacement similar to this one.
silent Chamberlain MyQ variant ($257)
. But you can
shop and compare
also many excellent alternatives.
Top Outdoor Home Security Cameras for 2025:
See at
2. Connect your garage door to a smart plug.
The issue with intelligent garage doors lies in their compatibility; retrofits frequently function solely with more recent garage door designs. Given that these doors may remain operational for many years, this excludes numerous potential users. However, an alternate solution exists. Should your garage door be connected to a standard electrical outlet—usually positioned near the motor on the ceiling—you might consider this option instead.
setting up a smart plug attachment
like this all-purpose
Leviton plug ($28)
.
Responses from smart plugs regarding your garage door motor might differ slightly, but generally, they enable you to turn off the motor entirely when you leave, preventing anyone from manipulating it to open. A few models might let you control the motor remotely for opening or closing the door (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 side entrance.
Side garage doors or interior entry points often serve as common targets for thieves because people frequently neglect locking these entrances. Additionally, these doors usually come with less robust locks and do not typically include deadbolts, making them simpler to break into, thus serving as a preferred choice for many burglaries.
Transform this vulnerability into a security win by arming garage doors with a
a smart lock system that allows for monitoring and locking functionalities
From anywhere, you can also set locking schedules or use pass keys. Smart lock handles similar to these 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 is essentially an electronic signal that alters each time it’s utilized. This mechanism stops anyone from intercepting and replicating the signal using a counterfeit wireless remote.
If your garage door is over a decade old, it might lack a rolling code system. In such cases, consider installing an updated model. For those preferring simpler solutions without needing to manage apps, the unit does not necessarily require advanced features like Wi-Fi capability; rather, it should include essential upgrades. Upgrading only the garage door opener remote could potentially 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 utilizes a rolling code, take a look at it after opening it up. If it still employs the small tab mechanism internally, then it does not feature an electronic rolling code system.
5. Secure garage windows (and possibly install some blinds)
Should your garage door include windows—particularly sizable ones beside it—they might attract intruders seeking an opportunity to enter or create disturbances. We recommend ensuring these windows are equipped with locks and keeping them secured at all times. While you might choose to unlock them during summertime use of the garage or while engaged in hobbies, generally maintain their locked state.
If concerns arise regarding individuals peeping through the window, we recommend opting for an affordable pull-down blind instead.
This blackout model costs $30.
, enabling you to obstruct the window whenever desired and allow sunlight in during your time spent in the garage.
6. Employ 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 locked, they prevent anyone from lifting the door manually with force. This serves as an effective safety measure when you’re away for extended periods like during lengthy trips.
You can locate them for approximately $15.
.
Extra note
If you reside in an extremely chilly region, freezing temps can cause the metallic elements of your garage door to become fragile. While track locks generally do not break easily, forcing the door open might result in critical parts snapping. This is particularly true for the main spring in older models. Just like with most things, prevention is better than cure here as well.
7. Install a security 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 worries, which could potentially be addressed by implementing certain measures.
floodlight security camera
It will be ideal when placed above the garage door, serving multiple purposes simultaneously. This model can sense movement and identify human presence before sending notifications about someone coming near. Similar models do the same thing.
Wireless Arlo floodlight camera ($160)
may activate intense LED lights upon someone’s approach, typically providing sufficient warning to deter intruders.
These cameras include live view features allowing you to check if someone is approaching the side of the garage. They also come with two-way audio capabilities enabling you to communicate from afar, even in unknown areas. Although facial recognition might not be essential, it’s an option being considered.
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.
Top Home Security Cameras That Include Lights:
See at
8. Avoid storing highly valuable items in your garage.
If you genuinely worry about someone breaking into your garage, refrain from storing valuable possessions inside. Take stock of what’s currently stored in your garage to identify any costly items present. Should you absolutely have to store expensive belongings such as premium tools or sophisticated equipment, do so with caution.
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 safeguarding your home, check out our articles on this topic.
deterring burglars
, home security
myths debunked
, and the
top self-install home security solutions
for an easy upgrade.
Initially released on January 24, 2025, at 5:00 PM Pacific Time.
