Did you know that your garage door is one of the most vulnerable entry points in your home? In fact, statistics show that 9% of home break-ins happen through garage doors. This significant number highlights the importance of garage door security.
Living in Des Moines, we all cherish the safety and security of our homes. Yet, many homeowners often focus on front doors and windows, forgetting that garage doors need just as much attention. You can, however, take simple, effective steps today to upgrade your garage door security and protect your home.
In this guide by Titan Garage Doors Des Moines, we will show you easy DIY upgrades that will make your garage door a strong barrier against intruders. So, let us dive in and make your home in Des Moines safer, starting with your garage door.
Check Your Garage Security Today
First, start with a simple visual inspection. Look closely at your garage door and its surroundings. See if there are any signs of wear and tear. Are there any cracks, rust spots, or loose parts? These can be potentially weak points that intruders might exploit. So, use this quick checklist to identify common security vulnerabilities:
- Locks and Handles: Are they sturdy and in good condition?
- Hinges and Rollers: Do they appear worn out or damaged?
- Weatherstripping: Is it intact and secure?
- Door Panels: Are they solid and free from cracks?
By ticking off items on this checklist, you will know exactly where to focus your security upgrades.
What You Can Do to Make Your Garage Door More Secure
Upgrade Your Garage Door Locks
When it comes to garage door security, upgrading your locks is a straightforward and effective way to keep your home safe. Here are the two types of garage door locks available in the market:
- Manual Locks: Manual locks are easy to install and provide excellent security. Most homeowners choose slide bolts or deadbolts. These garage door locks make it impossible to open the door, which is an extra layer of security.
- Electronic Locks: However, if you want something more modern, electronic locks are a smart choice. For instance, keypads allow you to set a unique code for entry, which means you do not have to worry about losing keys. Meanwhile, smart locks go a step further, letting you control access from your smartphone.
Reinforce the Garage Door
Now, let us explore how you can fortify your residential garage door to keep your home in Des Moines safe.
- Install Garage Door Braces: A door brace is an easy-to-install device that significantly enhances the strength of your garage door. You can find door braces at any hardware store in Des Moines.
- Upgrade Hinges and Rollers: You might as well consider upgrading the hinges and rollers on your garage door. Standard hinges and rollers can wear out at some point. When it happens, it becomes a weak point in your garage door security.
- Add Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping not only improves insulation but also boosts garage door security. It even seals gaps and makes it harder for intruders to pry open the door.
- Install a Garage Door Defender: This reinforcement is a sturdy metal bar that you install outside your garage door. It prevents the door from being forced open, providing an additional layer of security. The defender locks onto a plate that is bolted to the ground, making it incredibly difficult for anyone to lift the door without the key.
- Consider The Garage Shield: This garage door shield covers the emergency release cord on your garage door opener. With this security device, burglars can not use a coat hanger or something similar to get in through the outside.
Add a Home Security System
Have you already upgraded your locks and reinforced your garage door? Great job! Now, let us take your garage door security to the next level by adding a modern security system.
- Alarm Systems: These are excellent for scaring off potential intruders. Install a basic alarm that sounds whenever the garage door gets tampered with. You can find DIY kits at local hardware stores, and the setup is usually straightforward. Simply follow the instructions, and you will have an extra layer of protection in no time.
- Surveillance Cameras: Mounting a camera outside your garage door is a great deterrent. Place it where it can capture anyone approaching your garage. Look for cameras with night vision and motion detection features. Many options allow you to monitor your garage from your smartphone. This step will give you peace of mind whether you are at work or out enjoying Gray’s Lake Park.
- Smart Garage Door Openers: With these openers, you can operate your garage door from anywhere. You can also get notifications if someone opens the door unexpectedly. Some systems even allow you to grant temporary access to friends or family. Imagine being able to let in a neighbor to borrow a tool while you are out shopping at Valley West Mall.
Improve Lighting for Better Garage Door Security
Here is how you can boost your garage door security with some simple lighting upgrades:
- Exterior Lighting: Brighten up the exterior of your garage. Install powerful floodlights around your garage door. These lights should cover all dark corners and entry points. A well-lit exterior makes it harder for intruders to sneak around.
- Motion-Sensor Lights: These lights are game-changers for garage door security. After detecting movement, they turn on automatically, surprising anyone trying to sneak up on your garage. You can place them above your garage door and at the sides of your garage with ease.
- Interior Lighting: Do not forget about the inside of your garage. Keep it well-lit, especially at night. Install bright LED lights to illuminate every corner.
Secure the Door Opener
In reality, garage door security is not just about locks and lights. Your garage door opener plays an important role, too. So here is how you can make sure it is as secure as possible:
- Change Default Codes: Most garage door openers come with preset codes. If you have not changed yours, you are leaving a door wide open for potential thieves. So grab your opener’s manual and follow the instructions to set a new, unique code. This simple change can boost your garage door security with no fuss.
- Upgrade to Rolling Code Technology: Older garage door openers use fixed codes, which are easier for thieves to crack. Upgrade to a model with rolling code technology. Investing in this upgrade enhances your garage door security.
- Disable Remote Access When on Vacation: Heading out of Des Moines for a vacation? Turn off your garage door remote. Most modern openers have a vacation mode or one that you can unplug. This step prevents anyone from using a remote to access your garage while you are away.
By following these easy DIY steps, you can secure your garage door and give yourself peace of mind. Take action today to assess your current setup, upgrade your locks, reinforce the door, and add extra security measures. Remember, a secure garage door means a safer home.
Upgrade Your Security With Titan Garage Doors Des Moines
Do not wait for a break-in to happen. Upgrade your garage door security now and protect your family and belongings. Our team at Titan Garage Doors Des Moines offers expert garage door installation, maintenance, and repair services to keep your home safe. Have a limited budget? No problem! Take advantage of our flexible preferred payment option to get started right away. Contact us today for a free quote, and let us make your garage door security top-notch.
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