Every summer, families across Colorado Springs load up the car, head to the mountains, and leave for a week or two without giving much thought to what is happening back home.
Vacation mode is real. But before you hit the road, your garage door deserves a little attention.
Your garage door is the largest entry point to your home. In many houses, it also connects directly to the living space, which means it plays an important role in both security and peace of mind while you are away.
One simple step is to make sure your garage door opener is locked before you leave. Many openers have a vacation lock or wall-console lock button that prevents remote access while you are gone. If yours does not, unplugging the opener can add another layer of protection against unwanted access.
It is also worth checking the emergency release cord. That red cord hanging from the rail is designed to let you open the garage door manually during a power outage. Unfortunately, it can also become a weak point if someone pries the top of the door enough to reach the cord from outside. A simple zip tie through the release lever can help limit that vulnerability without permanently disabling the emergency release feature.
For homeowners who want more visibility, a smart garage door opener can be a helpful tool. Many smart systems can alert you when your garage door opens or closes, allow you to check the door from your phone, and even pair with video features so you can see what is happening in real time. That can be especially valuable when you are away from home and want to know right away if something unexpected happens.
Security is not the only thing to consider. Colorado summers can also be hard on garage door hardware. Heat causes metal components to expand, and if springs, cables, rollers, or hinges are already worn, extra stress can push them closer to failure. A door that was “working fine” before you left can become a frustrating surprise when you return.
Before a long trip, take a few minutes to watch and listen as your garage door opens and closes. Look for jerky movement, frayed cables, sagging sections, loud grinding, or anything that feels different than normal. Catching a small issue early is always better than coming home to a door that will not open, will not close, or has been left vulnerable.
A little attention before vacation can go a long way. Lock it, check it, and make sure your garage door is not the thing you forget before you leave.
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