Opening your garage door can make the space feel more comfortable. But if you’re not in the garage, it’s a good idea to leave the door shut. An open garage door can reduce your home’s energy efficiency, create security risks, and lead to property damage. Learn more about why you shouldn’t leave your garage door cracked open.
Energy Inefficiency
If your garage is attached to your house, leaving the garage door slightly open can lead to significant energy loss. The gap allows air to escape, prompting your HVAC system to work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. More energy consumption means higher energy bills and increased wear on your HVAC unit.
Keeping your garage door closed is a simple step to save money and conserve energy. Additionally, installing weather stripping at the top, sides, and bottom of the garage door can prevent unwanted drafts.
Security Risks
One of the biggest reasons why you shouldn’t leave your garage door cracked open is it makes your home more vulnerable to crime. Intruders often look for easy entry points, and a partially open garage door makes your home an easy target.
Keep your garage door fully closed to strengthen your home’s security. If your garage door doesn’t close fully, call a professional to fix the problem and prevent more damage. Failing to close is one of the most common garage door problems, and a professional can pinpoint the cause and correct it safely.
Pest Entry
A slightly open garage door is a beacon for pests. Rodents, insects, and other wildlife are always on the lookout for shelter and food, and they can easily slip through a small opening. Once inside, these pests can cause damage and create unsanitary conditions.
Keeping your garage door fully closed helps keep these unwanted guests out. It minimizes the risk of pests nesting in your garage and potentially entering your home. By taking this precaution, you protect yourself from property damage and health hazards associated with pests.
Weather-Related Damage
Leaving your garage door open can expose your belongings and the garage itself to the elements. Wind, rain, and snow can easily enter, leading to water damage, dirt accumulation, or even structural damage during severe weather conditions.
Closing the door can safeguard your garage and its contents from rust, corrosion, and humidity. Keeping dirt out also cuts down on cleaning time and minimizes the debris tracked into your home.
Keeping your garage door closed when no one is in it can improve energy efficiency and security. It also keeps out pests and prevents weather-related damage. If you like to keep your garage door slightly open to improve air quality, consider installing vents or an exhaust fan to improve air circulation instead.
