Tips for Keeping Garage Doors Safe in Extreme Weather

 

Keeping garage doors safe in extreme weather is essential to protect your property and maintain the structural integrity of your garage. Here are some tips to help you ensure the safety and functionality of your garage doors during extreme weather conditions:

1. Regular Maintenance:

   - Perform routine maintenance on your garage door, including lubricating moving parts, tightening screws and bolts, and inspecting for any signs of wear and tear.

2. Weatherstripping:

   - Install high-quality weatherstripping to seal any gaps around the garage door. This will help prevent drafts, water leakage, and the infiltration of debris during extreme weather.

3. Reinforce the Door:

   - Consider reinforcing your garage door with braces or struts to enhance its strength and stability, especially in regions prone to severe weather like hurricanes or tornadoes.

4. Wind Load Ratings:

   - Choose garage doors with wind load ratings that are appropriate for your location. These doors are designed to withstand strong winds and are essential in hurricane-prone areas.

5. Impact-Resistant Garage Doors:

   - Consider installing impact-resistant garage doors made from durable materials like reinforced steel or fiberglass to protect against hail, flying debris, or heavy rain.

6. Battery Backup:

   - Install a battery backup system for your garage door opener. This will allow you to operate the door even during power outages, ensuring you can access your garage in emergency situations.

7. Reinforced Windows:

   - If your garage door has windows, opt for impact-resistant or reinforced glass to prevent shattering during severe weather.

8. Regular Inspections:

   - Periodically inspect the tracks, cables, and springs to ensure they are in good condition. Any signs of damage or wear should be addressed promptly.

9. Secure Loose Items:

   - Before extreme weather hits, secure loose items in your garage to prevent them from becoming projectiles that could damage the garage door or other property.

10. Emergency Release:

    - Familiarize yourself with the emergency release mechanism on your garage door opener. You may need to manually open the door if the power fails.

11. Remote Monitoring:

    - Invest in a smart garage door opener that allows remote monitoring and control. This way, you can check the status of your garage door and control it from your smartphone, even when you're away from home.

12. Maintain Proper Drainage:

    - Ensure that the area around your garage has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling around the garage door, which can lead to flooding and damage.

13. Evacuation Plan:

    - In the event of extreme weather, have an evacuation plan in place and ensure all occupants of your home know how to operate the garage door and exit safely.

14. Professional Inspection:

    - If your area experiences extreme weather regularly, consider having your garage door inspected by a professional to ensure it meets local building codes and safety standards.

Remember that prevention is key when it comes to extreme weather and your garage doors. Regular maintenance and taking appropriate safety measures will help protect your property and ensure the safety of your family during severe weather conditions.

High wind ratings are important for garage doors in storm-prone areas. At Omaha Garage Door Repair, we understand the destruction hurricanes can cause. We are committed to providing exceptional garage door installation to commercial and residential property owners, including hurricane-rated and insulated garage doors. When your current door is not ready for this extreme weather, you can always ask our team for expert advice.