Look a new home in Sioux City and Yankton and most likely, there is a garage door keypad installed. Even homeowners with older garages have upgraded to a keypad. The small, increasingly wireless devices are typically mounted to a home's exterior, near the garage, and allow the user full operation of the garage door without the need for a separate handheld garage remote.

What are some of the benefits of installing a garage door keypad?

An outdoor wireless garage door keypad uses a pin to open and close the door. Simply punch in the code and voila, instant access to your garage and/or home. So what are the benefits?

• One thing less to carry. Walking the dog? Going for a run? No problem! There's no need to carry your keys or a remote control to get back into the house.
• One less way to get locked out. This is a huge benefit for families with older children who may not always have a remote control handy if they arrive home before their parents do.
• One less thing to lose. If you or your kids consistently forget a house key, a keyless entry like a garage door keypad can be a lifesaver.
• Additional features. Some wireless garage keypads can be programmed with distress codes that can be used to summon the police or other emergency responders.

Are there any downsides to having a garage door keypad?

Of course, with any technology, there are limitations to garage keypads that should be given thoughtful consideration.

• They have to be additionally maintained, like any other garage remote.
• You have to remember the code. (Losing your remote is one thing, losing your mind is another entirely).
• You have to teach children not to share the code.
• They feel like a security system, but in fact, they are not.

Garage door keypads are in reality no different from garage door openers. They are not a means of security, only a means to open and close a door, and they are only as safe and functional as you allow them to be. That being said, they can be a necessary and convenient option for homeowners looking for more flexibility and entrance options.

We at Overhead Door of Sioux City are here if you have any questions or concerns about this garage door feature.