Why the Garage Deserves Attention
Many houses have a weak spot in their home security in the garage. This part of the house can store bikes, tools, and other valuables, and may even include an internal door leading directly into the house. Once a burglar enters the garage, they can take their time going through the house unseen. Closing this weakness in home security usually requires purchasing high security garage doors.
What Makes a Garage Door High Security
There are key differences between secure garage doors and standard ones. For a start, the materials used in a secure garage door will be a lot thicker and stronger. Also, a good secure garage door has a locking system that is a lot harder to pick and break open. A good secure garage door should resist being lifted open, forced open or prised open.
Roller Doors, Sectional Doors and Up and Over
Each style has different advantages. Insulated roller doors wind up into a small box. This makes them hard to force and saves space inside and outside of the garage. Sectional doors have multiple panels that give them more rigidity, but they take up space on the ceiling of the garage. Traditionally, up and over doors have been the most common, but modern versions of these have improved locking mechanisms to overcome their historically poor locking points.
Locking Systems That Matter
Look for a door with multi-point locking, which secures the door in several places. Additional resistance can be provided by floor locks and side bolts. If you go for an electric door, make sure the lifting mechanism of the motor is designed to resist forcing, as a poor specification can be a weakness.
Insulation and Everyday Use
Security is only part of the picture. Many people use their garage as a workshop, gym or storage space, so insulated doors can help provide better temperature control, reduce heat loss from the house, and be quieter when in use, which is better if the garage is adjacent to a bedroom.
Don’t Forget the Surroundings
A good door can only do so much. Check the garage walls, side door, and windows. These may be more tempting to a burglar. Adding a good lock to an internal door between the garage and the house will help, as well. Outdoor lights and a visible alarm can also help deter a burglar.
Noise and Everyday Convenience
A garage door should be secure and quiet. If the garage is adjacent or beneath living space, it is especially important for the door to operate quietly. Constant openings and closings of a door that has a heavy and difficult operation can be very aggravating and time consuming, especially on a cold, wet morning. Remote controls make operation of the door very convenient, and wall switches, as well as keypads, are very easy to use. A backup manual release allows the door to be opened during a power outage. Make sure the garage door you select has these features.
Thinking About Insurance
Some insurers will want to know about security of outbuildings and garages if there are valuable items stored in them. Check with your insurer to see if they have standards about what locks should be used. Having the right door in place from the start is better than answering questions about inadequate door security later on.
Security Grilles and Personnel Doors
If your garage has side-window openings or a side entrance, consider fixed or retractable grilles with a steel personnel door. This helps ensure that the remaining openings match the security offered at the main entrance door. A consistent standard of security across all openings leaves no clear weak spot.
Installation and Aftercare
Proper installation is vital. A quality door that is installed poorly will not perform the way it is intended. Therefore it is important to use an experienced installer, in conjunction with following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Following installation, it is important to keep all moving parts lubricated and check springs, cables and locks periodically. With regular care the lifespan of the door will be increased and it will continue to function as a security barrier.
Preparing for Installation Day
Clear the area around the garage door opening and provide power if an electric operator is needed. Measure the opening and check headroom and side room. Warn the installer of any issues with the opening, such as lintels or uneven surfaces. This allows the installer to account for any floor issues and will help get the door functioning properly the first time.
Making the Right Choice
Think about how you use your garage, how exposed it is, and what you store in there. Compare the locking systems, materials, and tested ratings of the doors you are considering, and have suppliers explain the differences to you. The right garage door can turn a potential weak link into a strong part of your home’s defence.