Denver’s Rising Crime & Garage Break‑Ins
According to recent crime reports, break‑ins and thefts in the Denver area have
increased significantly. Many of these incidents involve garages that are:
- ✅ Left open or unsecured
- ✅ Equipped with weak locks or outdated doors
- ✅ Missing smart security features
But here’s the good news: with the right security upgrades, you can make your garage a
no‑go zone for criminals and gain peace of mind.
Why Garage Door Security Matters for Homeowners
Garages serve as more than just a place to park your car. They often contain valuable
tools, bikes, equipment, and even a secondary entrance into your home. Unfortunately, most
burglars recognize that many homeowners overlook garage security, making it an
attractive target.
In Denver, reports of garage break‑ins have increased, with many intrusions occurring
because of faulty locks, outdated doors, or garages accidentally left open. Homeowners who
assume their garage is secure often don’t realize how easily a determined thief can exploit
common weaknesses.
Improving your garage door security isn’t just about
preventing property loss; it’s about protecting your home and family. By
taking the right precautions, you can make your garage a stronghold rather than a
vulnerability.
Is Your Garage Door at Risk? Common Security Weaknesses
Many homeowners don’t realize how vulnerable their garage doors actually are. Here are
some signs that your garage may be an easy target for intruders:
- Gaps or misalignment in the garage door make it easier for burglars to pry it open with tools.
- Outdated or weak locks provide minimal resistance and can be bypassed in seconds.
- No security sensors or cameras means there’s no deterrent to stop a break‑in attempt.
- Exposed emergency release cords can be manipulated from outside to open the door.
- Windows without coverings allow criminals to look inside and see if valuable items are stored inside.
If your garage has any of these weaknesses, it’s time to take action. Let’s
explore the best ways to secure your garage door against break‑ins.
Best Ways to Secure Your Garage Door from Break‑Ins
1. Upgrade to a High‑Security Garage Door
If your garage door is old, worn out, or made of weak materials, it may not stand up to
forced entry attempts. Many burglars can pry open flimsy garage doors in under a minute.
Upgrading to a reinforced steel or insulated garage door makes it significantly
harder for criminals to break through.
Modern garage doors also come with anti‑pry bars, impact‑resistant materials, and stronger
locking mechanisms. These features make it nearly impossible for an intruder to gain entry
without attracting attention. If your garage door is more than 15 years old, consider
replacing it with a stronger, more secure model.
2. Install a Smart Garage Door Opener
Technology is playing a crucial role in home security, and smart garage door openers are
one of the best ways to protect your home. These devices allow you to monitor and
control your garage door from anywhere, ensuring that it’s never left open
accidentally.
With a smart opener, you can receive alerts if your garage
door is opened unexpectedly and even set it to automatically close after a certain period
of time. Some models also integrate with home security systems, providing an extra layer of
protection.
Investing in a high‑quality smart opener from brands like
LiftMaster, Genie, or Chamberlain can give you peace of
mind and greater control over your home’s security.
3. Reinforce Your Garage Door Locks
Many standard garage doors come with weak factory locks that burglars can easily
manipulate. Adding a high‑security lock, such as a slide bolt or T‑handle lock, can
prevent criminals from manually lifting your garage door.
Another common weak point is the garage door emergency release cord. While this feature is
essential in case of a power outage, it can be a security risk if left exposed. Burglars
have been known to use a simple wire or coat hanger to pull the emergency release from
outside. You can prevent this by installing a shield or zip‑tying the release mechanism so
it can’t be easily accessed.
4. Secure Garage Windows & Side Doors
If your garage has windows, burglars may peek inside to see if it’s worth breaking into.
One easy fix is frosting or tinting the windows so intruders can’t see inside. Security
film can also reinforce the glass, making it harder to break.
Side doors leading into your garage are another common entry point for burglars. If your
garage has a side door, make sure it has a heavy‑duty deadbolt, reinforced strike
plate, and a peephole so you can check outside before opening it.
5. Install a Garage Security System
Adding a motion‑activated security system can significantly reduce the risk of break‑ins.
Security cameras both inside and outside the garage can deter criminals and provide
valuable evidence in case of a burglary attempt.
Some of the best garage security setups include:
- Motion sensor alarms that alert you if someone enters your garage.
- Wi‑Fi‑connected security cameras that let you monitor your garage remotely.
- Garage security integration with smart home systems like Ring, ADT, or SimpliSafe.
A visible security camera alone can stop many break‑ins before they even happen.
Additional Tips to Keep Your Garage Safe
- Always keep your garage door closed when not in use.
- If you’re going on vacation, disconnect your garage door opener so it can’t be hacked.
- Don’t leave valuables in plain sight—store expensive tools and equipment in locked cabinets.
- Make sure your interior garage door (leading into your home) is reinforced and has a deadbolt.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Garage & Your Home
Your garage should be a secure, reliable barrier—not a weak point for
intruders. By upgrading to a high‑quality garage door, installing smart security
features, and reinforcing weak points, you can significantly reduce the risk of a
break‑in.
If you’re ready to enhance your garage security, Third Gen Garage Doors is here to
help. Whether you need a stronger garage door, a smart opener, or expert security
upgrades, we provide professional service to keep your home safe.
📞 Call (720) 697‑0418 today for a free consultation and take
the first step in securing your home!