There are a few simple ways you can protect your garage whether you’re leaving town for a few weeks or you simply want better security. Utilizing some of these methods can deter thieves and prevent break-ins.
To secure your garage door, the three DIY solutions you have available are installing zip ties on your release lever, using a padlock, or installing slide locks. Slide locks will be the most efficient and secure method. Padlock and zip ties can add extra security and protection to your garage door.
Each of these methods is relatively inexpensive and straightforward. The process becomes even easier if you already own some of the tools. Installing motion-sensing lights and security cameras can keep you safe as well. Let’s take a look at what you need to start securing your garage door and prevent break-ins.
Supplies You’ll Need
Securing your garage door from the inside can be inexpensive and straightforward. With the right tools and materials, you can prevent intruders and pests with ease. Here are some supplies you may need:
- Zip Ties (on Amazon)
- Slide Lock (on Amazon)
- Padlock (on Amazon) or C-clamp (on Amazon)
- Step stool (on Amazon)
- Impact drill (on Amazon)
- Flathead screwdriver (on Amazon)
- Hex screws (on Amazon)
- Scissors (on Amazon)
How to Secure a Garage Door From The Inside
There are a variety of ways you can secure your garage door from the inside. Zip ties, padlocks, and slide locks are excellent security measures. Follow the steps below to figure out how you can keep intruders out of your garage.
Use a Zip Tie
Every garage door opener will have an emergency release lever. The emergency release lever allows you to manually open the door from the inside of your power is out or if the opener is experiencing mechanical problems.
Unfortunately, burglars can easily use this lever to gain access to your garage. A thief may insert a cloth hanger through the opening of your garage door and pull the lever open, giving them access to your valuables.
Most automatic doors are secured against theft, but a determined thief can still gain access to your home in some cases. Thankfully, to avoid this issue you can install a zip tie (on Amazon).
Step 1: Disconnect the Garage Opener
First, you’ll want to disconnect your garage opener. Your garage opener is the motorized device that allows your garage door to open and close using the switches on your wall.
It’s typically connected to an outlet on the ceiling. You can use a step stool (on Amazon) or ladder to gain easy access to the outlet once you’ve located it.
Step 2: Find the Release Lever Cord
Next, you’ll want to find your garage door’s release lever cord. The release lever cable is a rope that hangs from the two horizontal bars that hold the door open, otherwise known as a trolley.
Step 3: Locate the Necessary Holes
You’ll want to look for a hole at the bottom of the trolley once you find your release lever cable. Your release lever should be attached to the trolley by a hinge. There should be a hole on the hinge as well. Make a note of these two openings.
Step 4: Insert the Zip Tie
Now that you’ve found the hole at the bottom of the trolley and on the hinge, you can begin inserting the zip tie (on Amazon). Insert one end of the zip tie through the hole on the hinge and then through the hole on the release lever. This should give you a standard loop between the two holes.
Step 5: Tighten and Trim
Finally, tighten the zip tie (on Amazon) as you normally would. You should also trim off any excess material for added security and neatness. You can use a normal pair of scissors (on Amazon) to trim off any extra material. The tightened zip tie will prevent the release lever from engaging the opener when the cord is pulled.
Install a Slide Lock
Slide locks, latches, and deadbolts are inexpensive ways to keep your garage door locked from the inside. These locks are typically straightforward to install. However, these solutions are better suited for when you leave on vacation, as you’ll need to lock and unlock them every time you use your garage.
Step 1: Acquire the Necessary Tools
Installing a slide lock (on Amazon) requires a bit more tools than using the zip tie solution above. Here’s what you’ll need to install a slide lock on your garage door:
- Flathead screwdriver (on Amazon)
- Hex screws (on Amazon)
- Impact drill (on Amazon)
- Slide lock (on Amazon)
Step 2: Locate the Knockout Template
You’ll want to find a small knockout template on the vertical tracks on either side of your garage door. Try to find the lowest knockout template you can, as it will allow you to slightly open the door while keeping it locked.
Step 3: Mark the Holes
You can mark the holes after you’ve chosen the location for your slide lock. Line the slide lock up exactly where you want it, and then mark the holes with a sharpie (on Amazon) or pen. You can use two screws on the top and two on the bottom.
Step 4: Use a Hole Punch
Now that you’ve marked the holes with a sharpie, you can use a hole punch or nail to make a divot. The divot gives you an easier time guiding your drill through the metal tracks.
Step 5: Pre-Drill the Holes
Now, you can drill (on Amazon) the holes into the metal tracks. Use the divot as a marker and take your hex screws (on Amazon) and pre-drill the holes. Be sure to use a higher-speed setting on your drill when doing this step.
Step 6: Install the Slide Lock
Now, line your slide lock up with the pre-drilled holes. Use your drill to insert the screws – one through the top and the other through the bottom. You can use a slower setting on your drill during installation.
Step 7: Repeat on the Other Side if Necessary
You can install two slide locks on your garage door if you feel it’s necessary. Simply repeat the steps provided above on the other side of your garage door track. Now, you can relax knowing that your garage is latched and secured.
Use a Padlock
Slide locks are going to be the most secure method. However, using a padlock (on Amazon) can be an excellent alternative if you find yourself in a pinch.
Step 1: Locate Pre-Drilled Holes
First, you’ll want to determine whether or not your garage door tracks have pre-drilled holes. If there aren’t any holes, you can use an impact drill (on Amazon) to make some. To do this, refer back to the steps for installing a slide lock.
Step 2: Insert the Padlock
You can insert the padlock (on Amazon) into the track now that you’ve found or pre-drilled the holes. Alternatively, you can use a C-clamp (on Amazon) if you don’t have a padlock. These devices make it difficult for intruders to mess with your door or pry it open.
How To Make Your Garage Door More Secure
There are other ways you can improve your garage door security besides using one of the methods above. Security cameras and lights are an excellent place to start. Obscuring your windows, smart garage openers, and locking your doors are other ways you can stay safe.
Install Motion Sensing Lights
Motion sensing lights are an excellent way to deter intruders and thieves. Solar-powered options (on Amazon) are the easiest type to install because they don’t require any electrical wiring. Non-solar-powered Motion sensing floodlights (on Amazon) are another great choice if you don’t mind the installation process.
Install Security Cameras
Security cameras (on Amazon) are another way you can deter burglars and thieves from entering your home. Many of these devices come with live feeds, SD cards, and other features that allow you to keep your valuables and family safe.
Be sure to find one that’s compatible with your preferences and needs before purchasing.