UBCNews - Business - Is Your Garage Door a Security Risk? Joliet Experts Share Safety Tips

Episode Date: February 24, 2026

Welcome back, everyone. Today we're talking about something that, honestly, most of us probably never think about—garage door security. You know, we lock our front doors, set our alarms, but what about that big, motorized entrance to our homes? Overhead Door Company of Joliet City: Rockdale Address: 48 Meadow Avenue Website: https://overheaddoorjoliet.com/

Welcome back, everyone. Today we're talking about something that, honestly, most of us probably never think about, garage door security. You know, we lock our front doors, set our alarms. But what about that big, motorized entrance to our homes? Right, exactly. And here's the thing. Approximately 9% of home break-ins actually happened through the garage door. That's not a tiny number when you think about how many homes have garages. 9%? That's surprising. So what makes garage doors such a target? Well, a few things. First, garages often contain valuable items, tools, bikes, sometimes even a direct entry into your main house. Second, many garage doors have vulnerabilities that homeowners don't even realize, like older

single point locks can be vulnerable to quick picking, depending on the locks complexity and the intruder's skill. That's concerning. What other vulnerabilities are there? And then there's the emergency release lever. Thieves can exploit that with just a coat hanger. Takes less than 10 seconds if it's not properly secured. Ten seconds with a coat hanger? I mean, I can barely open my own garage door that fast with the remote. Yeah, it's pretty wild. I actually had a neighbor a few years back, who came home to find

someone had gotten into their garage that exact way, scared them enough to upgrade their whole system immediately. Wow. So to everyone listening, have you ever checked your garage door security features? Another big issue is older garage door openers, right? Exactly. If yours uses fixed code technology, it's vulnerable to hacking and signal interception. Criminals can literally grab that signal and replay it. So what's the solution there? Modern openers with rolling code technology. The access code changes with each use, making

unauthorized duplication nearly impossible. It's one of those upgrades that really makes a difference. I mean, it genuinely improves your security posture. Mm-hmm, absolutely. What about the physical door itself? Can that be a weak point? Oh, definitely. Weak panels can be bent or forced open by intruders. Traditional designs sometimes have inadequate locking mechanisms, weak materials, exposed hinges, or unreinforced windows. If someone can see through your garage windows,

they know exactly what's inside. I see. Makes sense. Tinting those windows or using blinds can help. Also, upgrading to high-security locks, deadbolts, or smart locks, significantly improves your defense against tampering. Reinforcing panels and tracks strengthens resistance against forced entry, too.

That point about upgrading modern security technology really sets up our next piece. Professional installation and maintenance. But first, a quick word from our sponsor. If you're a homeowner in the Joliet or surrounding Chicagoland areas concerned about garage door security, overhead door company of Joliet can help. Since 1978, this family-owned business

has provided residential garage door installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance services. Their experienced technicians service all makes and models, ensuring your door operates safely and efficiently. Learn more at overheaddoorjoliet.com. Picking up on modern security technology, how does professional installation actually improve home security compared to, say, a DIY approach?

Great question. Professional installation uses high-quality materials and precise techniques to make unauthorized entry much more difficult. It also ensures safety and code compliance, proper alignment, secure fastening of components, which prevents accidents and malfunctions down the road. And I'm guessing proper installation helps prevent those common issues, like broken springs or worn rollers? Definitely. When everything's aligned and installed correctly, you avoid dormissalignment, opener malfunctions, unexpected failures. Springs are unpredictable. They can break any time. But proper installation and regular maintenance

extend the lifespan of your entire system. How often should someone have their garage door maintained? For residential doors used frequently, more than four times daily, annual or even semi-annual professional servicing is recommended. Preventive maintenance helps identify wear and performance issues before they lead to system failure. In other words, catching small problems early keeps you from dealing with bigger, costlier breakdowns.

So we've established that regular maintenance is key. What else can homeowners do to boost security? Three things come to mind. Lighting, cameras, and discipline. Install motion sensor lighting around the garage. It deters intruders. Security cameras improve property surveillance and never leave your garage door partially open.

That's basically an open invitation. I've definitely been guilty of that one. Just cracking it open for ventilation while working in there. Yeah, a lot of people do it, but it increases theft risk significantly. Also, don't neglect maintenance. Minor issues can turn into costly, major problems if ignored.

A faulty or broken door attracts thieves and makes robberies easier. You mentioned earlier that garages provide direct access to the main house. That's really the scary part, right? Exactly. Once someone's in your garage, they're essentially inside your home's perimeter. They have time, privacy and access to tools that might help them breach the interior door.

That's why garage security should be treated just as seriously as your front door. And upgrading an aging or damaged door, does that improve more than just security? Oh, absolutely. Modern systems offer improved durability, insulation, and yes, security. But they also boost curb appeal and overall property value. It's an investment that pays off in multiple ways. Before we wrap up, any final thoughts on keeping your garage and home safe? Just this. Treat your garage door like the major entry point it is.

Regular professional inspections, prompt repairs, modern security features like rolling code openers and reinforced locks. These steps really do make a difference. And honestly, peace of mind is priceless. Couldn't agree more. Thanks so much for breaking all this down today. To everyone listening, take a close look at your garage door. You might be surprised what you find. Until next time, stay safe out there.