As summer approaches, many of us are looking forward to getting away, whether it's a week on a beach, a country staycation, or just more time spent outdoors with family and friends. But while you're planning your summer fits and stocking up on sun cream, there's one big thing at the back of our minds – home security.
According to data from the Office for National Statistics, summer sees a spike in burglaries and break-ins across the UK. With schools breaking up, longer daylight hours and homes often left empty while families travel, it’s a prime time for opportunistic thieves.
The good news is, you can do a lot to safeguard your home while you’re soaking up the sun elsewhere. From smart tech to secure investments, here's how to prepare your home for the holiday season, and why your garage door might just be the unsung hero of your security setup.
Summer Safety
In many ways, summer is the most relaxed time of year. The weather vastly improves, and your holiday is just around the corner. But with that comes some well-known risks when it comes to break-ins.
- Empty homes: An unoccupied house is a green light for intruders. No lights, no movement, just a quiet opportunity.
- Open windows and unlocked doors: Hot weather means we’re more likely to leave windows ajar or forget to lock back doors. Ideal for someone looking for easy access.
- Social media oversharing: We know holiday photos are tempting to post in real-time. But geo-tagged selfies and check-ins can also be a virtual sign saying, “We’re not home!”
The average cost of a burglary in the UK is around £4,120, but the real damage often goes far beyond finances. The loss of sentimental belongings and that shaken sense of safety can’t be priced.
How to Protect Your Home This Summer
A few smart changes can make a huge difference when it comes to protecting your property:
- Use timer switches to give the impression someone’s home. They’re inexpensive, easy to use, and can be set to switch lamps or TVs on and off at set times, or even controlled remotely from your phone.
- Invest in good lighting. Security lights near entrances (especially around side doors or garages) are a great deterrent.
- Install cameras or a smart doorbell. Visible security cameras and devices like Ring Doorbells let you monitor your home from anywhere, and they let potential burglars know they’re being watched.
- Speak to your neighbours. Let someone you trust know when you're going away so they can keep an eye out, collect post, or even pop by to water plants and move things around.
But let’s not forget one of the most overlooked (and vulnerable) parts of the home – your garage.
Why Your Garage Door Matters More Than You Think
Garages are often viewed as storage space for bikes, tools or the odd garden chair, but to burglars, they’re an entry point. Especially if your garage connects directly to your house, it’s vital that this area is properly secured.
A tired, outdated garage door might look harmless, but it can be an easy target. Older mechanisms can often be forced open or manipulated, especially if they don’t lock automatically.
So, how can a Garolla roller garage door help?
Security Features of Garolla Electric Garage Doors
1. Top-Quality Manufacturing
Garolla doors are built using twin-walled aluminium slats filled with high-density polyurethane foam. In plain terms? They’re strong, secure, and built to last. Designed to withstand attempted forced entry far better than traditional single-layer doors.
2. Automatic Lock Mechanism
Ever rushed out the door and wondered if you remembered to lock the garage? With Garolla, you don’t have to. Our doors automatically lock as soon as they close. No padlocks, no bolts, and no second-guessing.
3. SafeGuard Plus System
Garolla’s SafeGuard Plus offers enhanced protection, including:
- Rolling code encryption: Stops thieves from copying your remote signal.
- Obstacle detection: Prevents accidents or tampering by stopping the door if something gets in the way.
- Secure guide rails: Make it near-impossible to force the door open from the sides.
4. Anti-Clone Remote Controls
Our remotes use rolling code technology, which means the access code changes every time the remote is used. This protects you from “code grabber” devices that criminals might use to copy a signal.
5. Secured by Design Accreditation
Our Titan model meets the police-backed Secured by Design standards. This means it’s been independently tested and proven to reduce the risk of crime. Housing developments built to these standards are up to 75% less likely to be burgled.
How Else Can You Secure Your Garage?
Beyond the door itself, a few simple steps can help maximise your garage’s security:
- Keep it tidy: If someone peers through a window and sees valuables, it’s an invitation. Keep tools and bikes out of sight.
- Secure other entry points: Don’t forget side doors and any internal doors between the garage and your home. Fit deadbolts or extra locks.
- Maintain your door: Like any part of your home, regular maintenance helps your garage door stay in top working order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop thieves from opening my garage door?
Choose a garage door with a modern locking system, invest in motion-activated lighting, and use visible deterrents like cameras. Garolla’s SafeGuard Plus system gives you layered protection with encryption, auto-locking, and obstacle monitoring.
Are electric garage doors secure?
Absolutely – if they’re built right. Garolla’s electric garage doors are designed with high-quality materials and smart locking mechanisms to offer better protection than older manual doors.
What makes Garolla more secure than a standard garage door?
It’s the combination of strong construction, intelligent automation, and anti-clone tech, plus optional Secured by Design certification for even greater peace of mind.
Ready for a Secure Summer?
Whether you’re setting off on a luxury cruise or just taking a British break from your 9-5, you deserve to relax without worrying about what’s happening back home.
Thinking about upgrading your garage door? We’ve got you covered. Book your free survey today and we’ll talk you through your options, measure up, and give you a no-obligation quote.