Many of us are guilty of leaving our garage doors open all day or night. Whether you simply forgot or just didn’t think it was a big deal, the choice can have serious consequences. An open door can invite pest infestations, damaged belongings, or complete failure of its mechanisms. Keep reading to discover the dangers of leaving your garage door open for an extended period and how to protect your household and belongings.

HVAC System Strain

Leaving your garage door wide open for extended periods can increase energy bills and put a severe strain on your HVAC system. Even just a crack in the door allows hot air to enter your garage in the summer or cold temperatures to invade it during the winter. This excess airflow will force your HVAC system to work harder to regulate the temperature in your home. You’ll see increased wear and tear, a shorter system lifespan, and uneven heating and cooling throughout the house.

Keep the door closed to help your HVAC system maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce the need for unnecessary repairs or maintenance.

Pest Infestation

An open garage door is an invitation for pests and critters to enter your home. Neighborhood cats and dogs, plus vermin like rats, mice, squirrels, and raccoons, can stroll into your garage at any time and set up shop. Once they’re in, it can be very hard to get them out. After all, the garage is a warm, safe, and dry place for them to rest and have babies. They may even chew through wires or find a way to get inside your home, causing an even bigger issue.

Weather Damage

Even on the nicest summer day, the weather can change unpredictably. If you leave your garage door open overnight, you could wake up to a howling rainstorm, thunder, and lightning. Your once-clean garage may now be littered with debris, dust, water, and even flooding, leaving your belongings at risk of serious damage.

Damage to Your Garage Door

Leaving your garage door half open puts unnecessary strain on its mechanism and tracks. Over time, the continuous pressure can lead to misalignment, broken springs, and damaged rollers or cables, resulting in costly repairs. Even minor damage can reduce the door’s lifespan and increase maintenance needs.

Leave your garage door fully closed when it’s not in use to keep it in top condition and help it reach its maximum lifespan. Don’t forget to schedule annual maintenance with M&M Garage Doors to ensure all components function correctly and keep your door in top condition.

Privacy

An open garage door allows passing strangers to peek into your home and take a look at your belongings, making your house a welcome target for theft or home invasion. Keeping your garage door closed is a simple step to safeguard your belongings and reduce unwanted attention. If you need more ventilation, consider adding vents or fans to improve airflow without compromising your privacy.

Insurance Implications

Your home insurance policy may be void if your garage door is left open in the event of burglary or damage. The insurance company may argue that you didn’t take the necessary steps to protect your property, leaving you responsible for the losses. To avoid complications with your claim process and receive full coverage, keep your garage door fully closed when not in use.

Security Concerns & Safety Hazards

When you leave the garage door partially open, you may as well have a welcome sign hanging off your house. It’s not only a point of entry for burglars who want to commit the actual crime; it’s the perfect way to scope out your belongings ahead of time from the street to plan a burglary later on.

You likely keep a lot of expensive equipment in your garage, and it’s on display for all to see, from mountain bikes and motorcycles to lawnmowers and snow blowers. Leaving your garage door open offers easy access for thieves to scope out and take your valuables with minimal effort.
Compromised Garage Door Opener

Leaving your garage door cracked open puts uneven strain on the opener mechanisms, leading to premature wear and potentially costly repairs. It increases the load on the motor, causing it to work harder and be at a higher risk of overheating. It may also create an imbalance that causes the rollers to misalign and strain the opener as it moves along an uneven path. These damages can lead to malfunctioning sensors, difficulty opening or closing the door, or complete failure.

Contact M&M Garage Doors

Even if you know you’ll be back again in a few hours, it’s always wise to shut the garage door. Make a garage door check a part of your daily and nightly routine, just like you check the front door lock. You’ll create a safer environment for your household and prevent the need for unnecessary repairs or maintenance.

If you keep your garage door open all the time because it doesn’t close properly or at all, schedule repair or replacement as soon as possible. We offer expert garage door repairs, maintenance, and installation for Michigan residents. Contact M&M Garage Doors to schedule service in the Metro Detroit, Ann Arbor, Kent County, and Traverse City Areas today.