Garage Door Security Tips: Simple Ways to Protect Your Home
A garage can be a way into a home. Small habits and a few checks reduce the risk. These tips suit homes in Newton and beyond.
Protect the remote
- Do not leave a remote clipped to the visor of a parked car. Keep it with you or out of sight.
- If a remote is lost or stolen erase the opener memory and reprogram the remotes you still use. Check your manual for the steps. The remote guide covers programming basics.
- Change the keypad code from the factory setting. Pick a code that is not easy to guess. Change it when a worker or tenant leaves.
Know your opener type
Older openers use a fixed code that can be copied. Most modern openers use a rolling code that changes with each press. If your opener is old consider an upgrade. See how long a garage door opener lasts and our opener installation page.
Use the lock or vacation mode
Many wall controls have a lock setting. It stops remotes from opening the door. Use it when you travel. Check the manual for your model.
Watch the emergency release
The release cord can sometimes be reached through a gap at the top of the door. Good weatherstripping reduces gaps. Read weatherstripping and bottom seals. Do not remove the cord because you need it in an emergency. Read how to use the manual release safely.
Lock the door into the house
Keep the door between the garage and the house locked. A deadbolt adds protection. A closed garage door should not be your only barrier.
Check windows in the door
Panels with windows let people see inside. Frosted glass or a blind keeps valuables out of view.
Close the door
An open door is the biggest risk. Check it at night. A smart system can warn you when the door is open. See smart garage door openers for what to check.
Keep the door in good condition
A damaged or off-track door may not close fully. A bent panel leaves a gap. Our panel repair and off-track repair pages cover those fixes. If an old door cannot be repaired read when to replace a garage door.
Add these checks to your seasonal maintenance checklist.
Door or opener showing its age?
Call us or send a request. We will check the door and the opener and tell you what we find.
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