How to Secure Your Garage Door Against Break-Ins

by | Mar 5, 2025

Garage doors serve as a primary access point for homes, yet they are often overlooked in security measures. A vulnerable garage door can be an easy target for burglars, leading to stolen valuables, property damage, and even personal safety risks. This guide provides essential tips and security upgrades to help homeowners strengthen their garage doors against break-ins and enhance overall home security.

Garage door security measures

Why Garage Security Matters

Garage Break-In Statistics and Risks

Many homeowners underestimate the importance of securing their garage doors. According to crime statistics, 9% of burglars enter homes through garages. While this may seem like a small percentage, it translates to thousands of break-ins every year.

The Dangers of a Weak Garage Door

A poorly secured garage door presents multiple risks:

  • Easy access to valuables – Garages often store expensive tools, bicycles, lawn equipment, and even vehicles, making them a tempting target for thieves.

  • Entry into the home – If the garage is attached to the house, a break-in can provide direct access to the rest of the property.

  • Potential damage and costly repairs – Forced entry can cause structural damage, leaving you with expensive repair bills.

Given these risks, it’s crucial to reinforce your garage door’s security to prevent unauthorized entry and protect your assets.

How Burglars Break into Garage Doors

Common Weak Points in Garage Doors

  • Outdated or Weak Locks – Many garage doors still use simple, low-quality locks that are easy to pick or bypass.
  • Exposed Emergency Release Cords – Burglars can use a wire or coat hanger to hook and pull the emergency release, quickly opening the door from outside.
  • Weak Door Panels – Some garage doors, especially older or budget models, have thin panels that can be easily kicked in.
  • Fixed-Code Openers – Older garage door openers use static codes, which can be intercepted by criminals using hacking devices.

Burglary Techniques Used to Exploit Garage Doors

  • Fishing – This technique involves slipping a wire through the top of the garage door and pulling the emergency release handle.
  • Brute Force Attacks – Criminals use crowbars or their body weight to force open weak or poorly maintained garage doors.
  • Lock Picking and Bumping – Basic garage locks can be easily picked or bumped open with minimal effort.
  • Code Grabbing – Some burglars use radio scanners to intercept the signal from an older garage door remote, allowing them to open the door at will.

Get your garage door inspected and get recommendations from local garage door experts on how to protect it better. Submit your details, and we will connect you with the best 3 or 4 garage door companies nearby.

Click Here

How to Improve Garage Door Security

1. Reinforce the Garage Door Structure

  • Upgrade to a High-Security Garage Door – Consider installing a garage door made of reinforced steel or aluminum rather than flimsy wood or vinyl.

  • Add Bracing and Reinforcement Bars – Metal braces prevent the door from being forced open.

  • Use Anti-Kick Plates – These plates protect the lower portion of the door from brute force attacks.

2. Secure the Garage Door Locking Mechanism

  • Install a Heavy-Duty Deadbolt Lock – A high-quality deadbolt makes it significantly harder for burglars to force open the door.

  • Use a Side-Mounted Garage Door Lock – These locks prevent the door from being lifted manually from the outside.

  • Replace Weak Handles and Latches – Cheap plastic handles can be broken easily, so upgrading to metal alternatives is a good security measure.

3. Protect the Garage Door Opener

  • Upgrade to a Rolling Code Garage Door Opener – Modern openers use rolling codes that change with every use, preventing hackers from capturing and reusing the code.

  • Secure the Emergency Release Handle – Use a zip tie or a garage shield to prevent burglars from pulling the emergency release from outside.

  • Install a Garage Door Timer – Timers automatically close the door after a set period, preventing it from being left open by accident.

4. Strengthen Side Doors and Windows

  • Replace Weak Side Doors with Solid-Core Doors – If your garage has an entry door, make sure it’s just as secure as your front door.

  • Use Deadbolts on Side and Rear Doors – Install high-quality deadbolt locks on all secondary access doors.

  • Install Window Security Film – This prevents burglars from easily seeing into your garage and identifying valuables.

5. Improve Lighting and Visibility

  • Install Motion-Sensor Lighting – Bright lights activate when movement is detected, deterring burglars.

  • Use Smart Security Cameras – Cameras with motion alerts allow homeowners to monitor their garages remotely.

  • Trim Shrubs and Remove Hiding Spots – Overgrown landscaping provides burglars with cover, making your home an easier target.

Check also: Common signs your garage door might needs repair

Additional Security Tips

1. Use a Smart Security System

  • Install Door and Window Sensors – These sensors send alerts if an entry point is breached.

  • Use a Smart Garage Door Sensor – These devices notify you when the garage door is opened unexpectedly.

  • Connect Garage Security to Your Home Alarm System – Integrating the garage with a larger security system enhances overall protection.

2. Adopt Good Security Habits

  • Never Leave the Garage Remote in Your Car – Thieves often break into vehicles to steal garage door remotes.

  • Always Lock the Garage Door at Night – Many homeowners forget to do this, leaving an easy opportunity for burglars.

  • Perform Regular Maintenance Checks – Inspect and maintain locks, hinges, and rollers to ensure they function correctly.

What to Do If Your Garage Is Broken Into

1. Stay Safe and Contact Authorities

  • If you suspect a break-in, do not enter the garage. Call the police immediately.

  • Check security camera footage and provide evidence to law enforcement.

2. Secure the Garage After a Break-In

  • Reinforce Broken Doors and Locks – Temporary fixes such as wooden boards or padlocks can provide short-term security.

  • Contact a Garage Door Repair Service – A professional can assess damage and recommend security improvements.

3. Upgrade Security to Prevent Future Break-Ins

  • Review vulnerabilities and implement stronger security measures.

  • Consider installing an alarm system specifically for the garage.

  • Evaluate new garage door options with built-in security enhancements.

Final Thoughts & Takeaways

Garage door security is an essential component of overall home safety. By making a few strategic upgrades and adopting better security habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins.

Key Security Takeaways:

✅ Use a rolling code garage door opener to prevent code grabbing.
✅ Secure the emergency release handle to block fishing attempts.
✅ Install high-security locks, reinforcements, and security cameras.
✅ Never leave your garage remote in an unsecured location.
✅ Conduct routine inspections and maintenance checks.

💡 Looking to enhance your garage security? Find and compare quotes from trusted garage door repair specialists today!