Quick answer: the best garage door lock depends on your door, with T-handle locks, slide locks, deadbolts, and automatic opener deadbolts all common. This guide covers garage door lock types, cost, and install for Indianapolis homes.
A garage is a common break-in point, so a good garage door lock adds real security. Below are the lock types, how they install, and what they cost.
Why Garage Door Locks Matter
Many garages connect straight to the house, so the garage door is a second front door. A garage door lock blocks easy access and buys time against a break-in.
Physical secondary locks also protect against signal grabbers or remote cloning. A manual garage door lock works even if a thief defeats the opener.
Types of Garage Door Locks
There are several garage door lock types, and the right one depends on your door. Here are the most common garage door locks, from simple slide locks to automatic deadbolt locks. Some locks secure the overhead door, and other locks secure the side door, so many homes use two locks for full coverage.
T-Handle Lock
A T-handle lock is the classic garage door lock on many overhead doors. A T-handle lockset kit includes a locking T-handle and two keys, and it is built from sturdy steel.
Slide Lock and Slide Bolt
A slide lock is a simple bolt that slides into the door track. It is cheap, but a slide lock offers less security than a deadbolt.
Deadbolt Side Lock
A deadbolt garage door lock throws a steel bolt into the track or frame. Manual deadbolts provide greater resistance than basic slide arms.
Automatic Opener Deadbolt
An automatic deadbolt engages when the door closes and retracts just before it opens. It works with your opener, gives audible alerts and a red LED indicator, and locks the door every time.
Keyed Cylinder Lock
A keyed cylinder garage door lock uses a standard key, like a house lock. It is easy to rekey and pairs well with a side-door garage lock.
Smart Garage Lock
A smart garage door lock or smart opener lets you lock and check the door from an app. Many add a keypad for keyless access.
Padlock and Hasp
A padlock and hasp is a budget garage door lock for a manual door. Use a hardened padlock so it resists cutting.
Overhead vs Side-Door Garage Locks
Most garages have two doors to secure: the big overhead door and the walk-in side door.
Overhead Garage Door Locks
Overhead garage door locks include T-handles, slide locks, and automatic deadbolts. These secure the large rolling or sectional door.
Garage Side-Door Locks
The side door uses a normal deadbolt and knob, just like a house door. A locksmith can rekey the garage side door to match your house key.
Garage Door Lock Kits and What Is Included
A garage door lock kit usually packages the lock, the strike or track bracket, keys, screws, and instructions. Read the product description to confirm the kit fits your door before you buy.
How to Install a Garage Door Lock
Most garage door locks install with a drill and a screwdriver. Follow the kit instructions and mark the holes before you drill.
Installing a Manual Lock
For a T-handle or slide lock, you drill the handle holes, mount the lock, and align the bar with the track. It is a straightforward job for a handy owner.
Installing an Automatic Deadbolt
An automatic deadbolt should be compatible with the garage door opener and model. It wires to the opener, so many owners have a pro install it.
Should You Rekey the Garage Side Door?
If you moved in or lost a key, rekey the garage side door lock. A locksmith rekeys it in minutes so old keys no longer work, and can key it to your house.
Where to Buy Garage Door Locks
You can buy garage door locks at a hardware store, a home center, or online. Compare products by security features, price, and whether the lock fits your door.
Read the product description before you purchase, since a garage door lock kit lists the door types it fits. Check the product package for the keys, brackets, and instructions. A locksmith can also supply and install the right garage door locks if you would rather skip the shopping.
Cheaper locks work for a manual door, while an automatic deadbolt product costs more but locks the door for you. Whatever locks you buy, pick garage door locks built from steel so they resist force.
Garage Door Lock Cost
A basic garage door lock costs about $15 to $60 to buy, and an automatic deadbolt runs $150 to $300 installed. Professional install of a manual lock adds about $50 to $120.
Pro Install vs DIY
A manual garage door lock is a fair DIY job. Call a locksmith for an automatic deadbolt, a smart lock, or to rekey the side door. You can verify a locksmith through the Associated Locksmiths of America. Chief of Locks installs and rekeys garage locks across Indianapolis. Call (317) 671-7873. Schlage makes a wide range of residential deadbolts and smart locks for home security.