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Manual garage door locks are a great way to enhance your home security. Whether you have recently moved into your home or you are simply looking for a way to enhance your home security, garage door locks can be a big help. In this article, you will learn about which type of garage doors can benefit most from manual locks, which types are most recommended, and how to go about installing the type of manual lock you choose. Read on to learn more about manual garage door locks and their benefits!
It should be noted before you continue on with this article that manual garage doors are best for garage doors that are not attached to an automatic motor of some kind. This is because leaving a manual lock engaged and then proceeding to open your garage while it is still latched can burn out or break your garage door motor. Manual locks should only be used on an automatic garage door in certain instances and when you know for sure that you will remember to unlock it before operating your garage.
The only times you might consider using a manual garage door lock on an automatic garage door is when you are leaving home for an extended period of time, your garage door motor is out-of-service, or you are able to follow a strict protocol when it comes to using a manual lock. Most automatic garage doors will lock by themselves without the need for any additional reinforcement. If you are considering installing a manual lock for your automatic garage door, be sure to use caution and care before operating the door and always make sure the lock is unlatched first.
Types of Manual Garage Door Locks
For manual garage doors, it is always important to make sure you have a secure lock of some sort. Since your garage likely stores your vehicle and other important assets, it is critical that you have a way to lock up your garage and secure it at all times. Take a look at the two main types of garage door locks below:
T-Handle Locks
These locks sit in the center and near the bottom of your garage door. They look like a letter ‘t’ with the bottom part of the ‘t’ attached to your garage and the handle portion sticking outward. In the center of the handle is a key slot. Homeowners can lock their garage doors using a key, just as they would a deadbolt lock or similar locks around their home. The shape of a t-handle lock makes it easy to grip the handle and pull the garage door up or down manually. These locks are inexpensive, easy-to-use, and quick to install.
Sliding Garage Door Locks
Unlike t-handle locks that are placed on the outside of your garage door, sliding locks are placed on the inside. They operate just like a traditional sliding lock that you might place on your home’s front door except they are much larger and stronger. These locks are also easy to install and are great for homeowners that have garages that are attached to their homes.
Additional Security Measures You Can Take
In addition to installing manual garage door locks, there are a couple of other things you can do to enhance your garage door security.
Install Deadbolts to Any Exit Doors
If your garage is not attached to your home, then it is likely that you have a side door that allows you to enter or exit your garage. If this is the case for you, be sure to treat these entrances just as you would an entrance to your home. Deadbolt locks should always be used for alternative entrance doors.
Keep the Area Around Your Garage Well Lit
Proper lighting is important around your garage. Criminals will be far less likely to try and break-in to your garage if the area is properly lit. Make sure you have automatic floodlights or some other type of exterior lighting installed to help keep your garage protected.
Cover Any Windows in Your Garage
You can prevent others from seeing what assets you have stored in your garage by covering any windows with blinds or curtains. You will be less likely to experience a break-in of some kind if criminals are unable to tell what is in your garage in the first place. Blinds or curtains are inexpensive and can make a big difference when it comes to your overall garage door security. Make sure to hang one or both if you have windows on your garage.
Ask for Assistance with Installation if Necessary
Do not hesitate to contact an expert if you are having trouble installing your manual garage door locks or are unsure as to which model will serve your security needs best. A garage door specialist can help you select the right garage door lock for your needs and ensure that a proper installation is made.
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