Garage Door Security: Is Your Garage the Weakest Link?

Why Garages Are Vulnerable

Garages are a primary target for burglars for a simple reason: they often contain high-value items like cars, bikes, tools, and electronics — and they frequently connect directly to the main house. Getting into a garage can be the first step to getting into your home.

The Emergency Release Cord Hack

This is one of the most important things a homeowner should know: most garage doors have an emergency release cord that disengages the automatic opener so the door can be operated manually in a power outage. A burglar can use a bent wire hanger slipped through the top of the door to hook and pull this cord — releasing the door in seconds.

Fix: Use a zip tie to limit the cord's movement, or purchase a shield that blocks access to the release mechanism.

Garage Door Lock Options

• Slide bolt lock: A simple manual lock that prevents the door from being opened even if the opener is bypassed
• Garage door defender: A padlock-style device that locks into the ground track, physically blocking the door
• Keypad upgrade: Replace an old rolling-code opener remote with a modern system that's much harder to clone

Secure the Connecting Door

The door between your garage and living space is critically important. This door should:

• Be solid-core wood or steel construction
• Have a Grade 1 deadbolt
• Have a reinforced strike plate
• Never be left unlocked, even when you're home

Additional Garage Security Measures

• Never leave your garage door remote in your car — it's a master key to your home
• Consider a camera inside and outside the garage
• Use a garage door sensor that alerts you when the door is left open

Garage Door Lock Installation

Provo Locksmith UT can install deadbolts and security locks on garage service doors and interior connecting doors. Call us at (385) 283-6134.