When you think about protecting your property, you probably don’t start with the garage. However, it’s one of the most vulnerable entry points for intruders, so it makes sense to prioritize your garage security. One of the best places to start is with a good garage door lock.
If you’re not sure how to find the best garage door lock for your home, you’re in the right place. Read on to explore the different types of garage door locks and how to protect your property and loved ones from unwanted entry.
Importance of Garage Door Security
Homeowners often overlook the garage when it comes to security. However, a home is only as secure as its weakest entry point. According to the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors, 9% of home break-ins occur through the garage.Â
When you secure your garage, you’re not only protecting the items inside but also access to the main house through connecting doors. It’s a gateway to your whole home.
Types of Garage Door Locks
A lock may seem like a basic security device, but it’s a classic for a reason. Locks are one of the best ways to defend your home from intrusions, and if you plan on adding more garage door security, you’ll need a good lock.Â
Several types of garage door locks are available, each with its own pros and cons. Before you rush to the store and buy one, browse the following options and consider which one is best for your home.
Slide Locks
Slide locks are popular and cost-effective options for securing garage doors. Install these locks on the inside of your garage door, making them invisible and harder to tamper with from the outside.
Before installing your lock, you’ll need the following:
- A hole punch or flathead screwdriver
- A slide lock latch with a 2″ or 3″ universal bolt
- A wrench or impact drill with a 7/16″ bit
- Appropriate screws for the door material (self-drilling hex screws for metal doors, lag screws for wooden doors)
Start by closing your garage door and unplugging your garage door opener so no one accidentally opens the door while you’re installing the lock. You can install the lock on either side of the door, but we recommend installing it on the inside. Attach it to the second panel from the bottom.
Align the slide lock with the bolt inside the vertical groove of the track of your garage door. Use the pilot holes as a guide and secure the lock base with screws. Don’t overtighten the screws because this will strip out the door stile and the fastener thread.
T-Handle Locks
T-handle locks are common on metal garage doors. They use a cylinder key, making them more difficult to replicate than standard keys.
Unlike slide locks, you install a T-handle lock outside the garage door. There are two wires attached to the handle, and the lock mechanism is spring-loaded. When you turn the handle, the cables pull back the rods on the lock mechanisms and raise the door.
Before you install a T-handle lock, you’ll need pliers, an open-ended wrench, and wire cutters (if the manufacturer doesn’t include cable brackets).
To install a T-handle lock, remove any existing lock and thread the new lock through the hole. Then, screw it in place. Make sure to orient the back locking mechanism in the same direction that your lock turns, then put the locking mechanism through the shaft and secure it.
Automatic Garage Door Locks
Automatic garage door locks integrate with your door opener system, locking the door automatically when you close it and unlocking it when you activate the opener. These locks offer convenience and better security. We recommend hiring a professional to install them because they involve electrical wiring.
Center Lock Systems
Center lock systems only work for overhead garage doors. They use a center equalizer to pull cables connected to spring-loaded latches on both sides of the door. Unlike other locks, center locks are easy to install and relatively simple.
When installing, use the existing punch-out holes in the door and place flat screw heads on the inside of the track to avoid interference with rollers. For more instructions on how to install a center lock system, check out the video below.
Roller Door Locks
Roller door locks fit through the shutter curtain and guide rails, preventing anyone from opening the door. You’ll need to use a key to open these locks.
While installation is possible for skilled DIYers, we recommend hiring a professional to install it if you need to do any welding. Use the video below as a reference for installing these locks.
Additional Security Measures for Garage Doors
Beyond locks, homeowners can use several other security measures to add to their garage protection:
- Frost or tint garage windows to obscure the interior view.
- Install a smart garage door opener or monitor that sends notifications to a smartphone.
- Avoid storing garage door remotes in vehicles.
- Install motion-detecting flood lights near the garage entrance.
- Secure the access door between the house and garage.
- Set up motion-activated security cameras around the garage area.
While this list may seem like overkill, it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to home security.
Community Vigilance
While locks and advanced smart home systems are a big asset, there’s no substitution for a good neighbor. Having someone you trust to keep an eye on your property is invaluable, and neighborhood watch programs encourage open communication about suspicious activity.
Even something as simple as having a well-lit property will deter a potential thief. If your neighborhood works together, you can help each other out and keep burglars at bay.
Overall Home Security
Choosing the best garage door lock for your home is a necessity, but it’s hardly the only step toward total home security. If you want your home to be as secure as possible, address all potential entry points, including windows, doors, and the garage. It takes time and effort to guard your home, but it’s well worth it for your family’s safety.
