Opening a garage door from the outside can be painful if you have ever experienced it, even for a single time. You may be late for an appointment or just need to take something out of the garage, but if the door does not work properly, even the simplest task turns into a nightmare. There is no need to worry, as a few useful tips can easily help you with your common problem. Let’s focus on some useful tips and ideas to help you easily get back into the garage. So, How Do You Open a Garage Door From The Outside? Let’s look at some of the effective tips that help ensure that the garage door is functioning effectively once again.
7 Tips To Open A Garage Door From Outside
Use the Keypad Entry
Utilizing the keypad to open a garage door from outside the house is a simple way of gaining access to the house while improving security. Most gated keypads with locks are located on the wall by the garage door; merely punching some numbers activates the mechanism or the door.
In this case, for a key-based key-based system, the mechanical devices will no longer be needed, such as a door remote or even when it is raining and you are carrying something in your hands. Newer models of keypads offer more backlighting options along with customizable codes, which also make the usability of the keypad even easier.
Utilize the Emergency Release Cord
If your garage cannot be opened and the key to its door is nowhere to be found, it is best to try and look for the emergency release cord. Ordinarily, this cord is found on the upper part of the garage door where it can be easily reached, and its purpose is to disconnect the door from the opener so that it can be moved without needing it.
Such emergency release cords can be used by sliding the edge of thin wires like coat hangers through the gaps of garage doors or at their top edges, a common feature in most door designs. The procedure is straightforward; as soon as the cord you are looking for has been located, reach for it and pull it down.
Employ a Slim Jim Tool
Many train to know how to open a garage door from outside using slim jim. The first step is inserting slim Jim between the weather stripping and the door’s lock on the interior side. This unique, head-shaped tool allows for lock picking without breaking or cutting.
Try to wiggle the slim jim a bit and unlock the lock arm that is present inside. Potential pushes may now be made on the door to unlock it. Do not be in a hurry, as being in a hurry might cause damage to the garage door and its locking system.
Access via Manual Lock
When opening a manual lock for the garage door from the outside, a key inserted into the locking mechanism on the door is commonly required. Start by looking for the manual lock normally positioned on the outside of the garage door, usually around the handle or on the door frame. Place the key in the slot and turn it to unlock the door.
After unlocking, you may pull the door up by the handle or the door lifting mechanism, provided that this is done gradually to avoid strain. If the door is heavy, don’t hesitate to ask for help or use a pulley if one is available.
Check for a Backup Key
If you are attempting to open a garage door from the outside, one of the first places to look is for a backup key, at least if there is a manual lock. Although many homeowners prefer a secure keypad or remote system, having a physical key can be handy during crises such as power or battery failure.
Ensure the backup key is out of sight but secure; it can be hidden around the garage or given to a neighbor. In case you do get locked out, using the backup key would be helpful as it allows you to bypass expensive repairs and unnecessary call-outs of professionals.
Use a Remote Control
One of the simplest ways to open a garage door from the outside is by using a remote control. Just click on the remote control to open the garage without leaving your car. A very nuanced remote button opens or closes the garage door in its current position.
This is quite useful when there’s poor weather or when you need to carry something to the garage since it is quite convenient. Also, most contemporary remotes have a better security option, which increases the garage’s security while allowing the owners access in the easiest way possible.
Call a Professional
If you somehow lock yourself outside your garage and have to open the door externally, getting in touch with a professional is advisable. Breaking the door and trying to use a tool not made for such a purpose will only end up causing damage to the door and the mechanism used to open the door. Professionals have the right tools and know-how to get into the garage without abusing it rather than tampering with it somehow.
They will also determine the problem in no time and find a way to solve it so that it does not cause any problems with the garage door functioning in the future. Using the services of a qualified technician means that you will avoid wasting time and anger and losing your garage door system, which you have spent quite an amount on.
Wrapping Up
Using the garage door from the outside can be a real hassle. However, there are elements to assist you through this situation. Following the relevant advice in this post, including examining the lock mechanism, checking the batteries of the remote, and adjusting the position, you can self-diagnose and rectify simple problems that might be the cause of the trouble. It is important to remember that any garage door has to be maintained regularly so that there are no complications in the future.
Author’s Bio
Liz’s job as a content marketer allows her to reach out to those who want to design beautiful yet practical homes. According to her, every house is a sanctuary for an individual. Thus, it should be attractive and provide space for the inhabitants to thrive. Currently, she partners with garage door repair fife and is particularly focused on educating homeowners about the need for high-quality garage doors.