⚠️ Important: Automatic vs Manual Doors
If you have an automatic garage door opener, do not use manual locks like slide bolts or T-handles. If someone activates the opener while these locks are engaged, it will damage the door, tracks, and opener motor. Use locks specifically designed for automatic doors, or enable your opener's built-in vacation lock mode.
Types of Garage Door Locks
The classic T-shaped handle found on the outside of manual garage doors. Turning the handle rotates metal bars that slide into tracks on both sides, locking the door in place. Available keyed or keyless.
✓ Pros
- ✓ Simple, reliable mechanism
- ✓ No batteries or power needed
- ✓ Easy to replace
- ✓ Keyed versions add security
✗ Cons
- ✗ Not for automatic doors
- ✗ Moderate security only
- ✗ Can be pried open
Interior-mounted bolt that slides into a hole in the track, preventing the door from moving. Simple spring-loaded mechanism. Operated from inside only - no exterior access.
✓ Pros
- ✓ Very affordable
- ✓ Easy installation
- ✓ No key to lose
- ✓ Can't be picked from outside
✗ Cons
- ✗ Inside operation only
- ✗ Not for automatic doors
- ✗ Lowest security level
Heavy-duty steel barrier mounted to the ground in front of the garage door. When locked in upright position, it physically prevents the door from opening even if the opener is bypassed. The ultimate security for vacations and high-value garages.
✓ Pros
- ✓ Highest physical security
- ✓ Works with automatic doors
- ✓ Visible deterrent to burglars
- ✓ Can't be bypassed remotely
✗ Cons
- ✗ Manual lock/unlock required
- ✗ Requires concrete drilling
- ✗ Not convenient for daily use
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth enabled systems that integrate with your opener. Get alerts when the door opens, close it remotely, and grant temporary access to visitors. Examples: LiftMaster MyQ, Chamberlain MyQ, Tailwind, Meross.
✓ Pros
- ✓ Remote monitoring & control
- ✓ Activity alerts
- ✓ Integrates with smart home
- ✓ Guest access codes
✗ Cons
- ✗ Requires WiFi / internet
- ✗ Monthly fees (some services)
- ✗ Can be hacked (rare)
A switch or button on your garage door opener unit that disables all remote signals. When engaged, the door won't respond to remotes, keypads, or smart controls - only the wall button inside the garage works.
✓ Pros
- ✓ Free - already built in
- ✓ Prevents remote hijacking
- ✓ Easy to enable/disable
✗ Cons
- ✗ Must be inside to toggle
- ✗ Doesn't prevent physical entry
- ✗ Easy to forget to disable
Quick Comparison Table
| Lock Type | Auto Doors? | Security | Price | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Handle Lock | ✗ | ★★★☆☆ | $30-80 | Good |
| Slide Bolt | ✗ | ★★☆☆☆ | $15-40 | Low |
| Door Defender | ✓ | ★★★★★ | $80-200 | Low |
| Smart Lock / MyQ | ✓ | ★★★★☆ | $30-100 | Excellent |
| Vacation Mode | ✓ | ★★★☆☆ | Free | Moderate |
| Side Door Deadbolt | ✓ | ★★★★☆ | $50-150 | Good |
Which Lock Do You Need?
🏠 Daily Use (Automatic Door)
You use your garage multiple times daily and want convenience plus security.
✈️ Extended Vacation
You're leaving for 1+ weeks and want maximum security.
🔧 Manual Door
You have an older manual garage door without an automatic opener.
💰 Budget Security
You want improved security without spending much.
Don't Forget the Interior Door
The door connecting your garage to your home is often overlooked but critically important. If a burglar gets into your garage, a hollow-core door with a cheap lock won't stop them.
- Install a solid-core door (or steel) between garage and house
- Use a quality deadbolt with at least 1" throw
- Add a door reinforcement plate to prevent kick-ins
- Consider a smart lock for this door too (auto-lock feature)
This interior door is your last line of defense - treat it like an exterior entry door.
Need Help Securing Your Garage?
We recommend and install locks for Toronto area homes. Free security assessment.