Is Your Garage Door Secure? 6 Upgrades That Add Protection

While the Anaheim area is generally a safe place to live, there’s always a risk of garage break-ins, especially when you’re not at home. The good news is you can improve your garage door security to prevent garage break-ins by making a few simple changes and reducing vulnerabilities.

At Mesa Garage Doors, we do more than install and maintain your garage doors. We also offer garage door security upgrades that’ll keep your family and your belongings safer.

Why Garage Door Security Shouldn’t Be Overlooked

Since 2023, California communities have had a property crime rate of 2,294 per 100,000 residents, including burglaries and theft. This means that, while Orange County homes are generally safe, security is still an important issue to consider. Burglars will often target garages because:

• They are usually easier to get into than houses.
• The entry points may be in dark, concealed areas, making it easier to get in without being seen.
• Garages often house high-value items, like tools, bicycles, and vehicles.
• They may use your garage as an easier access to your house, as many homeowners are less likely to secure this entry point.
• Unsecured garage doors are easy for skilled thieves to open from the outside.

Top 6 Upgrades to Boost Garage Door Security

Want to know more about how to secure your garage door? The following are some upgrades you can implement to boost your garage security.

Install a Smart Garage Door Opener

Installing a smart garage door opener for security will give you better control over the garage door and allow you to monitor when it opens and closes from anywhere. Smart garage doors connect to your home’s Wifi network and can:

• Send security alerts to your phone.
• Integrate with other smart home technology.
• Allow temporary guest access to your garage.
• Be scheduled to close at a certain time of day.

With a properly encrypted smart garage door opener, security is simple, giving you better peace of mind when you’re in bed at night or away on vacation.

Use Reinforced Garage Door Locks

Reinforced garage door locks are added physical barriers that make opening the garage door from outside much more difficult, as they add resistance to prying, lifting, and other forceful entry attempts.

Some common types of garage door locks include:

• Deadbolt locks
• Floor-mounted slide locks
• Automatic keypads
• Smart lock systems

If you’re interested in adding a garage door manual lock to your garage door, schedule a free security assessment with Mesa Garage Doors. We’ll help you find the most suitable option for your needs.

Add a Garage Door Emergency Release Shield

Some garage doors have easily accessible emergency release cords that help you open the door during a power outage. By blocking the cord with a garage door emergency release cover, thieves won’t be able to use an implement to pull the cord from outside.

Install Motion-sensor Lighting

Motion sensor lights are an easy and affordable visual deterrent that’ll make many thieves think twice. Just by adding better lighting, you can keep away most burglars, who will choose an easier target where they’re less likely to be noticed.

Use a Garage Door Security Bar or Brace

Garage door reinforcement bars are physical barricades that prevent the door from being lifted manually, pushed, or kicked open. They block the tracks themselves, or may be installed on the floor to prevent intruders from forcing their way in.

Upgrade to a Rolling Code Keypad or Remote

Rolling code garage door keypad security systems and remotes use algorithms to generate unique access codes every time you use them. This prevents people from overhearing and then using your code, and stops potential thieves from recording your remote control’s transmissions and using them later on to get in.

Other Security Tips for Garage Doors

Some additional garage door safety tips we recommend to our customers include:

• Close the door: It may sound obvious, but closing the door may slip your mind every once in a while. You may want to set a reminder or purchase a smart garage door opener that can be set to automatically close.
• Secure the service door: The side or back door on your garage should be as secure as the main entry points to your home, as they’re often a target for lock pickers.
• Block the windows: Frost or cover the windows to keep valuables out of sight.
• Upgrade to a secure remote: Some generic garage door remotes are easy to clone. You can upgrade to a model with additional security features to prevent hacking.
• Clear the area: Remove debris, trash cans, or other items a burglar can use for cover.

Can Older Garage Doors Be Secured?

Yes, you can add security devices to any garage door. Regular maintenance, along with proper safety measures, may be all you need to keep your older door secure by ensuring it operates smoothly and closes completely every time.

At Mesa Garage Doors, we offer our customers comprehensive garage door tune-ups and repairs, keeping your door working as it should. If you’re unsure whether your garage is secure enough, schedule a free appointment to speak with an expert about secure garage door solutions.

When To Consider a Full Garage Door Replacement

You may want to consider replacing your garage door if it:

• Has security issues: Older doors, equipped with aging sensors and openers, no longer meet modern safety standards.
• Looks damaged: A run-down garage door invites burglars looking to exploit security weaknesses to gain entry. Compromised integrity, like rust, cracks, or rot, makes it easier to break in.
• Malfunctions often: If you can’t trust your garage door to stay closed or shut properly, you can’t trust it to protect your belongings.

In addition to security reasons, you may want to consider upgrading your garage door to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, improve its curb appeal, and provide yourself with peace of mind knowing the door functions properly. Contact us today to learn more about the secure garage door options available in your area.

Book Your Free Garage Door Security Inspection Today

At Mesa Garage Doors, we offer Anaheim and LA-area residents free security inspections, security hardware recommendations, and security upgrade information. From garage door lock installation to whole-door replacement services, you can trust us to help you keep your home and your belongings safer.

Contact us today using our submission form to book your free inspection, or visit our Anaheim showroom to learn more about our secure garage door models and smart opener options.