Garage Door Security Tips Calgary

Garage Door Security 101: How to Protect Your Home From Break-Ins in Calgary

Your Garage Might Be the Weakest Link

Most Calgary homeowners think of front doors and windows when they think about home security. But your garage door? That’s often the easiest entry point for break-ins — especially when it’s overlooked.

Whether it’s detached or connected to your home, your garage stores expensive tools, vehicles, and often grants direct access to your house. And with Calgary seeing seasonal crime spikes in winter and summer, keeping it secure should be a top priority.

Here’s how to reinforce your garage door, outsmart thieves, and keep your family and belongings safe — all from the local experts at C Town Doors.

1. Why Garage Doors Are a Target for Burglars

Burglars love garages because:

• They’re often less visible from the street
• Many homeowners leave them unlocked or use weak padlocks
• Garage door openers can be hacked or cloned
• They’re full of valuables like tools, bikes, golf clubs — and access to the rest of your home

Pro Tip: A thief can break into a typical garage in under 10 seconds using a coat hanger — if the emergency release cord isn’t secured.

2. Upgrade to a Modern, Secure Garage Door System

If your garage door system is 10+ years old, it may lack today’s basic security features.

Look for upgrades like:

• Rolling code technology: changes access code each time the remote is used
• Auto-lock systems: physically lock the door after it closes
• Battery backup openers: prevent manual override access during power outages
• Motion-activated lights: deter night-time snooping

Learn more about Garage Door Opener Options in Calgary

3. Secure the Emergency Release Cord

The red emergency pull cord is designed for safety — but it can be exploited.

Security Tip: Zip-tie or cover the cord with a shield so it can’t be pulled from outside using a hanger or thin rod.

4. Install a Garage Door Defender Bar or Smart Lock

Consider mechanical or electronic reinforcement:

• Defender bars or floor bolts prevent the door from being lifted manually
• Smart garage door locks let you monitor and control access from your phone
• Some integrate with security systems or video doorbells

Bonus: These also provide insurance benefits by reducing your home’s risk profile.

5. Don’t Neglect Side Doors or Windows

Most garages have a side entry door or small window. These are often:

• Unsecured with simple locks
• Obscured from view (perfect for a break-in)
• Easy to kick in or break

Secure with:

• Deadbolts or smart locks
• Frosted window film or bars
• Motion lights and security cameras

6. Add Insulation (for Security & Peace of Mind)

Did you know insulated garage doors are harder to break through?
They’re:

• Thicker and more rigid
• Quieter (no loud rattling during forced entry)
• Better at regulating temperature, which discourages battery drain on security devices

Check out: Insulated Garage Door Options in Calgary

7. Always Lock the Door Between Garage and House

Many homeowners forget to lock the interior garage door.
If a thief gets into your garage, an unlocked interior door is a direct pass to your home.

Best Practices:

• Treat that door like a front door — use a deadbolt
• Install a door alarm or entry chime
• Reinforce the frame with a strike plate

8. Consider a Smart Garage Monitoring System

Pair your garage door opener with a smart home system.
With a smart setup, you can:

• Get alerts when your garage door opens
• See live footage from cameras inside
• Auto-close the door if you forget

Many of these integrate with Alexa, Google, or Apple HomeKit for total remote control.

9. Schedule Seasonal Maintenance Checks

A stuck or broken door is more than an inconvenience — it’s a security risk.

Prevent issues like:

• Broken springs or rollers
• Malfunctioning auto-reverse systems
• Worn-out weather stripping

Book your Garage Door Maintenance in Calgary today to stay protected.

Conclusion: Secure Your Garage, Secure Your Home

Garage doors are no longer just convenience features — they’re a critical part of your home’s security system.

By upgrading your opener, securing access points, and adding modern smart tech, you can significantly reduce your risk of break-ins.

Need help assessing your current system or looking to upgrade?
C Town Doors offers Calgary homeowners expert installations, reliable repairs, and the peace of mind that comes with true security.