Parking your car isn’t the only use for your garage. For many, it serves as a workshop, a place to keep expensive tools, sporting goods, and holiday décor, and frequently a second entrance to your house. Because of this, the garage is a popular target for burglars. A garage door that appears secure may be a vulnerability in your home’s defenses, but you can greatly increase its security and discourage possible intruders with a few clever tactics.

Here are four essential strategies to improve garage door security and safeguard your house and possessions.

1. Use and Options of Smart Remote Devices

There is no denying a garage door remote’s convenience, but it also poses a risk. A tech-savvy burglar could easily “clone” an older, unencrypted remote. However, the rolling code technology used by modern garage door openers changes the security code every time you use the remote, making it nearly impossible for thieves to intercept and duplicate.

Furthermore, consider the physical security of your garage door remote. Leaving a remote clipped to the visor of an unlocked car is an open invitation for a thief to gain access to your home. Always keep your remote with you, just as you would your house keys. For enhanced security, explore smart garage door openers that you can control and monitor from your smartphone.

Smartphone technology is used to operate and monitor one of the safest methods of garage door access. You can check if you’ve closed your garage after leaving, or open it or close it from anywhere with a smart phone control. Notifications can be programmed to notify you if the door is left open for an extended period of time or if someone tries to force it open.

With alerts showing who used the garage door and when, the B&D App can be used by several family members. Even without a remote, you can use Apple Siri or Google Home to open your garage.

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2. Upgrade to a Secure Opener

Your garage door opener is the heart of your garage’s security. Older models with fixed-code transmitters are a significant liability. Upgrading to an automatic garage door opener with advanced security features is one of the best investments you can make.

Look for openers that use rolling code technology and have a vacation lock feature. A vacation lock disables all remotes and wireless keypads, preventing unauthorized access while you’re away. As an extra deterrent, a lot of modern openers also have built-in security lights that activate when motion is detected. You can see who enters and exits your garage in real time with some models that even have built-in cameras.

When a garage door is closed, it is not necessarily locked – in some cases, doors can be opened with pure force. Automatic background, a standard function in all B&D Garage Door openers. People with smartphone sets will also receive information about a forced entrance effort through the B&D app.

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3. Eliminate Hiding Spots & Hide Valuables

In addition to providing a clear view for anyone passing by, garage windows are great for letting in natural light. In addition to providing a clear view for anyone passing by, garage windows are great for letting in natural light. Your garage becomes a more appealing target for a burglar if pricey tools, bicycles, or other valuables are readily visible. Consider using blinds, curtains, or frosted film to block out the outside view of your windows in order to prevent this.

Keep valuables out of sight at all times as well. Never leave car keys or garage door openers in plain sight, store pricey tools in locked cabinets, and put away sporting goods. In addition to looking better, a well-kept garage discourages would-be burglars by hiding the valuables within. Keep in mind that a burglar will be less motivated if they can see less.

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4. Locking Technology

While many folks depend on their garage door opener to keep things secure, it’s wise to add an extra layer of protection. Installing a sturdy, deadbolt-style lock on your garage door can act as a strong deterrent. For additional security and assurance, invest in Auto-Lock. This heavy-duty locking bolt prevents intruders from lifting the door once it’s closed. Auto-Lock automatically activates with each use of the B&D remote or Smart Phone App.

If you’re looking for a more high-tech option, think about a garage door opener that comes with a built-in locking mechanism. These systems automatically lock the door once it’s closed, creating a solid and secure seal. This feature is a total game-changer for homeowners who want peace of mind, knowing their garage is locked up tight, even when they’re not home.

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In order to keep your house safe, your garage door is essential. You can significantly lower the likelihood of a break-in by investing in dependable locking technology, replacing your remote control, upgrading to a more secure opener, and removing any possible hiding places. These preventative measures are crucial for protecting your house, possessions, and family. Keep in mind that protecting your garage is equally as crucial as protecting the rest of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common queries about our garage doors, openers, and professional installation services.
Emu Garage Doors helps you choose the right solution for your home.

The best protection is a layered approach focused on physical strength:

  • Door Material: Use a solid door made of steel or heavy-duty fiberglass composite, as they resist kicking and prying.
  • High-Quality Locks: Install an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt with a one-inch throw.
  • Frame Reinforcement: Reinforce the strike plate with three-inch screws that penetrate into the wall stud.
  • Extra Security: Consider anti-lift security hinge locks or internal door cross bars.

Yes, they are highly effective.

  • High-quality security doors create a physical and visual barrier.
  • They significantly increase the time and effort required to breach the entry point, which is the primary deterrent for most opportunistic burglars.

Burglars hate anything that increases their risk of being detected, heard, or identified. The top security systems they avoid are:

  • Loud, Monitored Alarm Systems: The siren draws immediate attention, and the monitoring means authorities will be called.
  • Visible Security Cameras (CCTV): Burglars do not want to be recorded, as footage increases the chance of identification.
  • Motion-Activated Lighting: Eliminates their ability to work under the cover of darkness.

Effective deterrents focus on visibility, noise, and the illusion of activity:

  • Noise: Gravel paths, barking dogs (or sound recordings).
  • Visibility: Trimmed landscaping (no hiding spots), motion-activated exterior lights, and prominent security signage.
  • Activity Simulation: Using light timers with random settings to make the home appear occupied when you are away.

Extra security options include:

  • Auto-locking bolts or deadbolts
  • Smart monitoring / remote alerts
  • Integrated cameras
  • Backup battery power for locks
  • Shock or vibration sensors
  • Security bars or braces
  • Secondary mechanical locks

To deter burglars specifically:

  • Make entry more difficult (locks, reinforced doors)
  • Increase perceived risk (cameras, visible sensors, signage)
  • Limit access options (block remote cloning, lock manual releases)
  • Maintain a tidy, well-lit environment
  • Use a monitored system or notification alerts

Effective methods include:

  • Using auto-locks or deadbolts
  • Ensuring remote transmitters are not left in vehicles
  • Upgrading to smart openers or monitored systems
  • Reinforcing weak points (springs, tracks, door panels)
  • Installing external security cameras or lighting