Home Security Beat

Ways to Create a Safe and Secure Garage

Garages can be an easy place for burglars to break into, especially if you have a detached garage. However, there are ways to increase security and prevent your cars, property and other information from being vulnerable to thieves. Some of these tips don’t even require professional installers, so you can protect your belongings without having to invest too much money.

Side Doors and Locks

Steel, fiberglass and solid-core wood doors are effective, and installing double-cylinder dead bolts can keep these doors locked and more resistant to forced entries. Simple locking knobs can be broken by forced entry. When changing your locks, remember to use 3-inch-long screws for attaching the strike plate. This will make it sturdier as long as the screws reach a structural stud.

Windows

Windows might seem like the right addition when you’re trying to enhance the aesthetics of a garage, but unless they are made with shatterproof security glass, it’s easy to break through a window. Windows also give burglars a chance to see the goods, which might make them target your home next. If you still prefer a garage with windows, place them higher on the door to dissuade peeking. Another option is to use tinted glass or privacy film on existing windows.

Lighting

Flood lights with motion detectors are an inexpensive way to increase security. These can cost as little as $15, and they can make you and the neighbors more aware of any activity going on near your garage. You might also find that flood lights are convenient when you come home at night.

Garage Doors and Openers

With older, fixed-signal garage door openers, someone can “capture” the signal, so updating your door opener can eliminate this problem. Newer openers have “rolling code” technology, which means that the signal changes every time you close and open your garage. Conversion kits can be found at home centers, and it can be a simple do it yourself fix.

Mounting a wireless keypad remote control can eliminate the need to find a good hiding spot for an extra key, which is challenging task. As long as family members know the code, they can get into the garage if you’re not at home. In addition, you can setup temporary access codes when your friend watches your pet or if the neighbor kid needs the lawn mower to cut your grass.

These tips can improve the safety of your garage and make it less desirable to burglars. Detached garages can be an easy target, but upgrading your door opener, lights, windows and locks can give you some peace of mind.

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Tags: double-cylinder dead bolts, fixed-signal garage door openers, flood lights, locking knobs, motion detectors, safe and secure garage, shatterproof security glass