Unlocking the future of garage door security

When it comes to home security, the garage might often be the weak link in an otherwise well-protected property. Fortunately, new technologies and innovations can help make your home safer.

Trevor Leisek of Same Day Garage Door Services – a Rosie on the House Certified Partner – is here to break down what homeowners need to know about the new tech and the safety features to consider.

Leisek likes LiftMaster’s latest products. Their newly released Security+ 3.0 line of garage door openers and accessories promises enhanced security, improved smart home integration and greater convenience than ever before.

To understand what makes Security+ 3.0 so advanced, it’s helpful to look back at where garage door opener technology started.

“The first generation of openers used fixed codes — basically like a PIN — that could be copied by anyone with the right device,” Leisek explained. “It was a major security risk.”

Then came Security+ 1.0, which introduced rolling codes that changed after every use, drastically reducing the risk of code theft. Security+ 2.0 improved on that by increasing encryption strength and making it virtually impossible to duplicate the remote signals.

“Security+ 3.0 is introducing increased security and integrating Bluetooth technology with the remotes and accessories,” Leisek said. “This will also increase the range. Now, consumers will have the ability to manage their remotes and accessories via an app. On the app, consumers can name individual remotes, add or delete remotes or keypads and receive low battery alerts.”

One of the standout features of the Security+ 3.0 line is its deep integration with smart home technology via the myQ app. Homeowners can also open or close their garage doors from anywhere with a cell signal and integrate with other platforms like Amazon, Tesla and Vivint.

“Forgot to close the garage door when leaving for work in the morning? Not an issue anymore now that you can pull out your phone and close it from the office,” Leisek said. “You can also monitor your garage with the built-in cameras on the overhead rail garage door openers.”

Safety features

The new LiftMaster systems are also raising the bar for safety and reliability. Select motors in the lineup now include backup battery support, allowing the door to operate for up to 24 hours in the event of a power outage. That can be critical in emergencies or during extreme weather.

“All residential openers meet UL 325 standards, which are focused on safety,” Leisek said.

One key requirement? Properly installed and functioning safety sensors.

The safety sensors allow for proper functionality of the garage door, as well as the primary safety of children and adults.

“LiftMaster has told us that the sensors are there to protect people, not cars,” Leisek said. “Therefore, the sensors need to be properly installed — on the vertical garage door tracks, six inches or lower from the ground.”

A smart garage door opener helps close a big security gap. It gives homeowners real-time status updates, remote control and the ability to allow secure, in-garage deliveries from companies like Amazon and Walmart.

Garage doors are heavy, powerful machines and when not used correctly, they can be dangerous.

IMPORTANT TIP: Proper safety habits include making sure children don’t play around the door while it’s moving and never letting them hang on it as it opens or closes. Leisek also recommends keeping garage door remotes out of reach of children and ensuring wall-mounted control buttons meet current safety standards.

Regular maintenance requirements

Just like any part of your home, garage doors require regular maintenance to operate safely and smoothly.

“Proper lubrication is one of the simplest and most important things you can do,” Leisek said. “You can do it yourself or hire a pro, but it should be done at least once a year.”

Leisek also suggests routinely inspecting the garage door and opener system for obstructions, wear or unusual noises. Spotting issues early can save you from more expensive repairs later and help avoid potential safety risks. Details for maintenance can be found here.

The LiftMaster Security+ 3.0 line isn’t just about convenience – it helps homeowners take control of their home’s security in an innovative, proactive way. From Bluetooth-enhanced remotes to app-based customization and industry-leading safety features, this new generation of garage door technology is raising the standard.