Going on Vacation? Garage Door Tips For Before You Leave Town

Are you currently planning that much-needed getaway? Great!

Just don’t forget your garage door while you’re busy packing sunscreen and double-checking flight times. It’s really easy to overlook, but your garage door happens to be one of the biggest and most vulnerable entry points to your home. 

Here are some essential garage door tips to make sure you leave with peace of mind and come home without any surprises.

Give Your Garage Door a Quick Checkup

Before you head out, you’ll want to take a minute to inspect your garage door. Specifically, you should listen for unusual sounds during operation, check that it closes smoothly all the way, and also look for fraying cables or loose hardware.

A strange noise or jerky motion might seem minor now, but it could become a bigger problem while you’re away. This quick once-over can catch issues before they turn into full-blown malfunctions, or worse, security risks.

Lock It Down (Literally)

Most garage doors have a manual locking mechanism on the inside. If you’re not planning on using the opener while you’re gone, then you should engage the lock. This prevents the door from being opened, even if a thief has a universal remote or tries to bypass the opener system.

Some newer garage doors also feature “vacation mode” settings on the wall console. This disables remote access entirely, adding another layer of garage door safety while you’re away.

Unplug the Opener

If your garage door opener doesn’t have a vacation mode, unplug it. This simple trick keeps the system offline, which will make it impossible to open electronically. At the very least, it’s a great way to reduce risk with little effort on your part. 

Light It Up

A well-lit exterior is a simple yet powerful deterrent. Motion-sensor lights around your garage area can keep unwanted visitors away. It’s even better if your system allows remote control or scheduling for added flexibility.

Don’t Forget the Interior Door

That door from your garage into your house? Treat it like any other exterior entry. Lock it, and if you have a deadbolt, use it. 

It’s your last line of defense if someone gets past the garage.

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

It’s tempting to rush out the door, but taking a few minutes to follow these garage door tips can make a big difference. After all, protecting your garage ultimately means protecting your whole home.

So before you jet off, double-check that your garage door is secure. Then relax and enjoy your vacation. 

You’ve earned it!