The Best Ways to Storm-Proof Your Garage Door
Most people know that high winds from hurricanes and other storms can cause devastating damage. Fewer homeowners know that their garage doors can make an enormous difference in their homes’ safety. Storms and garage doors have a complex relationship that depends on several factors.
Your garage door could fail and become damaged if it is too weak to withstand the wind. Why is this such a problem? If your garage door warps, these high winds will enter your home. Once inside, winds can impact your roof and take it off. Excessive winds can also build pressure in your home, causing your windows to blow out.
Keep reading to learn more about how to secure your garage door during hurricanes and other storms, or contact Hunter Door today to speak to an expert in garage door storm-proofing.
How to Storm-Proof Your Garage Door
How much wind can a garage door withstand? Wind speed design requirements depend on your location as well as on exposure, terrain and direction. Your garage door must be up to code for your safety and that of your home. The wind speed for Risk Category II is between 115 mph and 130 mph. You may need to check your local city codes for the wind speed that your area recommends your overhead door should be able to withstand.
The Hunter Door professionals will help you find the upgrades you may need to follow the code.
1. Install Garage Door Braces
You can strengthen your garage door quickly by installing reinforced garage door braces on the inside of the existing door. Install these temporary braces before a predicted storm to reap the benefits of this inexpensive option.
2. Attach Hurricane Panels
Hurricane panels attach to the exterior of the garage door and offer necessary hurricane protection for garage doors from impact damage. If you have an older garage door, you will need to protect it from high winds to prevent damage to your garage and home.
3. Invest in a Storm-Ready Door
The best and safest option is to invest in a storm-ready door. Installing a storm-proof garage door saves you the time of setting up braces or panels before a storm. After all, some storms can hit unexpectedly. We recommend finding a wind-rated garage door suited for your area, so be sure to check with your jurisdiction or installer.
These storm-proof doors are impact-resistant and can withstand the high winds associated with your region. Upgrading your garage door is one of the most cost-effective home improvements. You receive a high return on your investment because your garage door enhances your home’s safety.
4. Address Any Vulnerabilities in Your Door
Before a storm approaches, meticulously inspect your garage door system. Look for signs of wear, such as rust, loose screws or damaged tracks. You should also test the manual locking mechanisms and ensure they engage securely.
If your door shows any signs of weakness or malfunction, consult a professional for repairs or consider temporary reinforcement measures like braces or panels. Addressing these vulnerabilities is an essential step in storm-proofing your garage door.
Your Garage Door Checklist for Hurricane Season
Follow this checklist when you need to hurricane-proof your garage door:
- Inspect your garage door for any signs of damage, such as rust, loose hardware or frayed cables.
- Test the door’s balance and ensure it operates smoothly.
- If you have a manual override, confirm it’s functioning correctly.
- Install temporary vertical and horizontal reinforced garage door wind braces for quick deployment before a storm.
- If your door is older or not wind-rated, purchase and practice installing hurricane panels.
- Trim any trees or shrubs near the garage that could fall and damage the door.
- Check weather seals around the door’s perimeter and replace any damaged sections to prevent water and wind infiltration.
- Ensure you have the tools and hardware to install braces or panels readily accessible.
- Familiarize yourself with your local evacuation routes and have a plan in case your garage door is compromised.
- See a professional for garage door maintenance to keep it in good shape.
- Store valuable items in higher parts of your garage to protect them from potential water damage.
- Keep the contact information for a trusted garage door repair service handy.
Contact Hunter Door for Garage Door Upgrades and Storm-Proofing Solutions
We’ve staffed our office with trained experts who focus on getting you the information and service you need to storm-proof your garage door. If you’re unsure whether your garage door can resist high winds or if you need help to figure out which option is best for you, please call us at 856-431-3952 or reach out for an estimate.
If a storm damages your garage door, it’s essential that you schedule maintenance to restore its reliable function. Garage doors have many complex parts that can malfunction if damaged. Are you unsure of what to look for? Learn more about spotting when your garage door may need repairs by reading this guide.
