Carolyn J. Braden • 3 Minute Read
What Every Homeowner Needs to Know for Keeping Their Garage Secure
When it comes to the security of your home, is there anything that gets overlooked? Chances are, yes, there actually is! But where? The windows? The backdoor? No, it’s the garage! If you want a healthier and happier home, then it’s mostly about making sure that you feel safe and secure in your own home.
The purpose of your garage doesn’t matter, either. Whether you use your garage to park your car, store your tools, or as a catch-all for everything you’re not ready to throw away, it’s a crucial part of your home that deserves attention. Plus, usually, there’s a door attached to your house, too. So, with all of that said, let’s dive into some fun and friendly tips to help make your garage feel more secure.
Get a bright light for your garage interior
Light It Up Like a Runway
One of the easiest and most effective ways to boost your garage’s security is to install good lighting. Yes, you read that right. Believe it or not, there are so many accidents waiting to happen. Not just that, but who knows what can’t be seen? Some people break into garages because of how dark they are (often references in movies, too).
Just think about it: dark corners and shadowy areas are a burglar’s best friend. So, just by installing motion-sensor lights outside and bright, energy-efficient LED bulbs inside, you can turn your garage into a well-lit fortress. When that motion sensor light flips on, potential intruders will think twice. Plus, you’ll never have to fumble for your keys in the dark again. It’s a win-win!
Modern garage doors
Smart Garage, Smart You
Welcome to the 21st century, where everything is smart – including your garage! Having a smart home is amazing, isn’t it? But why not extend this to your garage, too? Seriosuly, just investing in a smart garage door opener can add an extra layer of security and convenience. These gadgets allow you to control your garage door from your smartphone, no matter where you are.
Forgot to close the garage door? No problem, just swipe on your phone. Plus, there are even some models that alert you if the door is left open for too long or if there’s any unusual activity. It’s like having a tiny security guard in your pocket. Sure, it’s an investment, but it’s definitely worth it at the end of the day!
While thinking about your garage, consider adding a shower outside of it or in the area! See how we added an outdoor shower to our home in our YouTube video above or via our channel @carolynjbraden
Secure the garage door, especially if it has an entrance to the house
Secure That Garage Door
Now, let’s talk about the big entrance: the garage door itself. Like what was already mentioned earlier, it’s often shown in the news that people break into the garage, and from there, they break into the house. Plus, something else to think about would be the fact that even in scary movies, they depict how easy it is to break into garages. Basically, a flimsy, old garage door is an open invitation to burglars.
If your door is showing its age, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Ideally, it’s best to opt for a door made of sturdy materials like steel or solid wood. These materials not only provide better security but also enhance the curb appeal of your home.
And here’s a tip within a tip: if your garage door is acting up, don’t DIY it unless you really know what you’re doing. A professional garage door specialist can ensure your door is in top-notch condition. By all means, you just don’t want to take any risks, so you’re definitely better off hiring a professional.
Garage organizing shelves help keep clutter away
Avoid Clutter At All Costs
Technically, there are tripping hazards in a cluttered space; plus, where would you even be able to park your car? When your garage is packed with clutter, it’s easy to lose track of what’s there, and you might not notice if something goes missing. Plus, burglars love cluttered spaces because it gives them more places to hide.
Try adding some heavy duty garage shelving or cabinets or lockers to help keep clutter away.
A modern garage with a loft
Get to Know Your Neighbors
This tip might not seem directly related to garage security, but it’s a community effort! Being friendly with your neighbors can actually enhance the security of your entire neighborhood. When you know each other, you can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and alert one another if something seems off. Plus, having that sense of community just feels good, doesn’t it?
Lock your garage door for extra security
Lock It Down
It might sound obvious, but make sure your garage doors and windows have good-quality locks. This is the wild thing. A tip like this is something everyone knows, but not everyone acts on it, and you need to act on it! If your garage is attached to your house, the door leading from the garage into your home should be as secure as your front door. You might want to consider installing a deadbolt on this interior door for extra protection.
If you liked this article, we think you’ll love this one too: How to Create a Simple Outdoor Shower
Carolyn J. (C.J.) Braden is the owner of Carolyn’s Blooming Creations is a regular contributor and editor for CBC. She has been featured in numerous media publications such as InStyle Magazine, on HGTV, on Bustle.com, and more. She is the author of the books Georgia McMasters in Amethyst Lake Cemetery, How To Be Yourself: 3 Ways To Help You Being You, and the illustrator for the children’s book Bridging Connections. She is a former classroom teacher that now dedicates her life to educating others on how to live their most healthy, creative and happy life. Learn more about her visiting our About Us page.