Making the garage burglar-proof: The most important aspects
The number of burglaries has been high for years. And time and again we are confronted with headlines dealing with thefts. Therefore, for most people, the topic of burglary protection is inextricably linked to building or buying a house. After all, one's own possessions should be optimally protected. However, some people forget about the garage. But whether vehicles, hobby equipment such as boats, skis or lifting platforms, or garden and balcony accessories - many things that are dear to us owners are now stored here. Therefore, the garage also requires a few measures. But which points are essential? We present the most important aspects that make a garage burglar-proof.
A burglar-proof garage: from the door to the camera
When it comes to burglary protection, one factor above all is crucial: time. That's why most burglar-resistant measures are aimed at withstanding any attempts to break in for as long as possible. After all, the more time that passes before a thief can gain access, the greater the likelihood that he will change his mind and flee for fear of being caught. Often, obvious security measures play a role, such as a well-placed camera or a motion detector complete with light source. This can already lead to the fact that thieves look for the distance again. In addition, you should focus primarily on the garage door and door components to make the garage burglar-proof:
- Garage door: Opening the door is still the easiest way for thieves to get inside. Therefore, you should start here first. If you are building a new garage, you can immediately opt for a modern, burglar-resistant door. Important here are a robust construction, a secure lock, a locking system as well as a tested burglary protection. Many of our Normstahl garage doors, for example, achieve the burglary protection level SKG 2 according to NEN 5096 with a protective fitting. It is more difficult if you want to make an old garage door burglar-proof. Although some doors can be retrofitted - for example, with secure lock cylinders, protection against levering open, or more robust fittings - this usually involves a lot of work and expense.
- Door drive: It can also be advantageous to have an automatic door lock. This safety feature, which is located in the drive rail of the garage door, ensures that the garage door cannot be forced open. It becomes even safer if you rely on an electric garage door opener, for example in combination with a code button or a radio remote control.
- Doors: If you have a garage with one or more doors, you should not disregard them in your measures. After all, doors are often a garage's greatest weak point in terms of burglary protection. Garage doors must essentially be just as secure as the front door. Especially if there is direct access to the house from the garage. First and foremost, make sure you have a secure and resistant lock to make it difficult for thieves to pry. Alternatively, you can install a deadbolt. Or you can choose a security door reinforced with steel or other material.
- Motion detectors: As mentioned earlier, motion detectors can also be useful. These devices detect movement within a certain area and trigger a floodlight or even an alarm if desired. This quickly alerts you to movement on your property and burglars usually flee within seconds. Modern motion detectors are already designed so that you can have a message sent to your smartphone if the device detects any unusual movement. If you want to play it safe, install another motion detector inside the garage. Or you can go for an extended presence simulation, for example with a radio that also switches on automatically. This gives the impression that someone is in the garage.
- Surveillance camera: Likewise, you can install surveillance cameras that provide valuable evidence in the event of a break-in. Homeowners can also use them to monitor their property remotely, for example when they are on vacation. Often, thieves are even deterred by the mere presence of a camera - visible positioning is therefore advisable.
- Alarm system: If that's not enough, you can opt for an alarm system. If an unauthorized person approaches the garage door or driveway, a warning signal is triggered. But be careful: remember that this requires frequent switching on and off when you yourself or family members enter the garage area. Otherwise, you may regularly wake up the neighborhood.
Safety is one of our core values
"Caution is the mother of china", this proverb also applies to the garage. Or to put it another way: When it comes to burglary protection, it's better to be overcautious to avoid any nasty surprises. And it's best to trust manufacturers who take the issue of security just as seriously as you do. At Normstahl, it is one of our core values, just like tradition, quality and warranty.
