How to Lock a Garage Door from Outside: Techniques and Tips

Locking a garage door from the outside can vary depending on the type of garage door and locking mechanism you have. This guide will explore common methods and provide general tips to ensure your garage remains secure.

Common Methods for Locking a Garage Door from the Outside

There are several ways to lock a garage door from the outside, depending on the garage door and its locking mechanism. Here are some of the most common techniques:

1. Manual Locks

Slide Bolt: If your garage door has a slide bolt, you can insert the bolt into the door frame to secure it. This is particularly useful for manual garage doors. Padlock: Some garage doors have a hasp where you can place a padlock to secure the door. This is a straightforward and effective method.

2. Keyed Locks

If your garage door has a built-in keyed lock, locate the keyhole and insert the key. Turn it to lock the door. Ensure the door is fully closed before locking it.

3. Smart Locks

For those with a smart lock installed, you can use your smartphone or a keypad to lock the door remotely. Smart locks often offer added convenience and security.

4. Locking Mechanism on the Opener

If your garage door opener has a manual lock feature, consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to engage this feature. This can be a convenient way to lock the door without needing to be outside.

General Tips

Always ensure the garage door is fully closed before locking it to prevent unauthorized access. Regularly check and maintain the locking mechanisms to ensure they are functioning properly. If your garage door is frequently used, consider a more secure locking system to deter unauthorized access.

For specific types of garage doors or locking mechanisms, always consult the manufacturer's instructions or a professional for the best advice.

Challenges and Unique Situations

Not every garage door is equipped with an exterior lock, especially if it has an electric opener. However, for tracked doors without an electric opener, a locking mechanism may be needed. Here are some methods and ideas for such situations:

1. Sliding Bar Lock with L-Handle or T-Handle

This type of lock slides into a slot on the door and must be turned to lock the door. It is effective but may require some installation.

2. Separate Locking System - Garage Door Defender

A garage door defender is a separate locking system that can be mounted on the outside of the garage door. It provides an additional layer of security and can be installed without altering the existing door.

Unique Situation: Elevator-Only Garage Service

Mel's unique situation presents a challenge, as there is no power and no access to the garage from the inside. Here is a creative solution Mel came up with:

Mel's garage door is fully weatherstripped and backed by wood framing. To address the issue, Mel drilled a small hole and inserted a small nylon rope through it. A finishing nail was then used to secure the end of the rope, forming a loop. This loop was then routed to the tripper using pulleys and a weight to handle extra rope as the door travels up and down.

In the event of an emergency, Mel can simply find the small loop and pull it until the rope becomes tight, effectively triggering the tripper to open the door. This low-tech engineering solution works reliably in emergency situations.

For more tips and methods, consult your garage door manufacturer or a professional to ensure your setup is both secure and practical.