Why Garage Entry Doors Are a Common Weak Point
Many Chandler homes were built with standard hollow-core doors between the garage and the living area. These doors were designed for convenience, not security. Common problems with these doors include:
- Lighter construction that is easier to force open than solid or steel-core doors
- Basic passage knobs instead of deadbolts
- Thinner frames than what you would find on a front entry door
- Strike plates secured with short screws that do not anchor into the wall stud
When a garage door is left open or a remote is stolen, the interior door becomes the last line of defense. Upgrading this door and its hardware gives you a meaningful layer of protection that most people in your neighborhood probably do not have.
What Type of Lock Should You Install on a Garage Entry Door?
At minimum, your garage entry door should have a quality deadbolt in addition to any passage knob or lever already in place. A single-cylinder deadbolt with a Grade 1 or Grade 2 ANSI rating provides solid resistance against forced entry. Look for hardware from trusted brands like Schlage or Medeco that we carry and install throughout the Valley.
If you want added convenience alongside improved security, a smart lock is worth considering. Smart locks allow you to lock and unlock the door remotely, set access codes for family members, and receive alerts when the door is opened. Our team installs and programs smart locks for Chandler homeowners and can help you find the right fit for your door and budget.
Does the Door Frame Matter as Much as the Lock?
The lock is only as strong as the door frame holding it. A deadbolt installed in a weak frame can be defeated with a single kick regardless of the lock grade. Replacing a standard strike plate with a heavy-duty reinforced strike plate and using three-inch screws that anchor into the wall stud makes a significant difference. This upgrade is simple, affordable, and dramatically increases resistance to forced entry. If the door frame itself is damaged or deteriorated, a professional can assess whether reinforcement or full replacement is the right call. Anderson Lock and Safe handles lock installation and door hardware work across Chandler and the surrounding East Valley.
Should You Rekey the Garage Entry Door Lock?
If you recently moved into a Chandler home, rekeying the garage entry door lock is one of the first things you should do. Previous owners, contractors, or real estate agents may still have keys that fit your current locks. Rekeying changes the internal pins of the lock cylinder so that old keys no longer work, without requiring you to replace the hardware entirely.
Rekeying is also a smart move in these situations:
- After a roommate moves out
- After a contractor has had access to your home
- Any time you are unsure who may have a copy of your key
Anderson Lock and Safe offers lock rekeying throughout Chandler and can often complete the job in a single visit.
Are There Additional Security Upgrades Worth Considering?
Beyond the lock and frame, a few other upgrades can make your garage entry door significantly more secure. If your current door is a hollow-core interior door, replacing it with a solid-core or steel-core door is one of the most impactful changes you can make. These doors resist both forced entry and fire, which is an added benefit in a garage environment.
A door viewer or wide-angle peephole lets you see into the garage before opening the door. You might also consider a door closer to ensure the door latches fully every time it is used, rather than relying on someone to pull it shut manually. For homeowners interested in a broader approach, access control systems can integrate multiple entry points under one managed platform. Our residential locksmith team can walk you through the options that make sense for your home and your budget.
Secure Your Chandler Home with Help from Anderson Lock and Safe
Securing the garage entry door is one of the smartest and most affordable home security upgrades available to Chandler homeowners. A quality deadbolt, reinforced strike plate, and solid-core door can transform a common weak point into a reliable barrier. Whether you need a new lock installed, an existing lock rekeyed, or guidance on smart lock options, Anderson Lock and Safe is here to help. We have been serving Chandler and the entire Valley since 1966 with honest recommendations, quality hardware, and a 100% guarantee on our products and labor. Contact our Chandler locksmith team today or schedule service online to get started.