How to Prepare Your Garage Door for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season in Florida can be a challenging time for homeowners. Your garage door, often the largest opening in your home, is particularly vulnerable to high winds and flying debris. Proper preparation can help protect your property and ensure your garage door remains functional during and after a storm. Here's how to get your garage door ready for hurricane season in Deltona, FL.

Inspect Your Garage Door

Start with a thorough inspection of your garage door. Look for:

• Loose or damaged hardware
• Worn weatherstripping
• Rust or corrosion on metal parts
• Cracks or dents in the door panels
• Signs of wear on the tracks or rollers

Address any issues you find promptly to ensure your door is in top condition before a storm hits.

Reinforce Your Garage Door

Consider installing a garage door bracing system. These kits can significantly increase your door's ability to withstand high winds. They typically include:

• Vertical braces that attach to the door and floor
• Horizontal braces for additional support
• Heavy-duty hinges and brackets

Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper fit and function.

Check and Upgrade the Weatherstripping

Good weatherstripping is crucial for keeping water out during heavy rains. Check the seal around your entire garage door and replace any worn or damaged sections. Pay special attention to:

• Bottom seal
• Side seals
• Top seal

Secure Loose Items in Your Garage

During a hurricane, items in your garage can become projectiles, potentially damaging your door from the inside. Before a storm:

• Move vehicles, bikes, and lawn equipment away from the door
• Secure shelving units to the walls
• Store loose items in closed cabinets or bins

Consider Impact-Resistant Doors

If you're due for a garage door replacement, consider investing in an impact-resistant model. These doors are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, offering superior protection during hurricanes.

Test Your Manual Release

In case of power outages, you should know how to operate your garage door manually. Locate and test the manual release handle, typically a red rope hanging from the opener trolley. Make sure all family members know how to use it safely.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Proper lubrication can help your garage door operate smoothly during and after a storm. Use a silicone-based lubricant on:

• Hinges
• Rollers
• Springs
• Chains or belts

Clear Gutters and Downspouts

While not directly related to your garage door, ensuring proper drainage around your garage can prevent water damage during heavy rains. Clean out gutters and ensure downspouts direct water away from your garage.

Have a Professional Inspection

For peace of mind, schedule a professional garage door inspection before hurricane season. Experienced technicians can spot potential issues you might miss and recommend appropriate reinforcements or repairs.

Know When to Leave It Open

In some cases, it may be advisable to leave your garage door partially open during a hurricane. This can help equalize pressure and reduce the risk of structural damage to your home. However, this should only be done if specifically recommended by local authorities or a structural engineer familiar with your property.

Preparing your garage door for hurricane season is an important step in protecting your Deltona home. By following these steps and addressing any issues promptly, you can help ensure your garage door remains secure and functional, even in severe weather.

For professional garage door inspections, reinforcement, or repairs in preparation for hurricane season, contact Advanced Garages LLC. We can help ensure your garage door is ready to withstand whatever the Florida weather brings. Contact us at 386-320-8218 to schedule your pre-hurricane season garage door check-up today.