Protecting Your Garage Door from Storm Damage

Durable Stormproof Garage Doors in Orlando, FL

Orlando residents know the power of Florida storms all too well. Between hurricane season and sudden severe weather, your garage door faces serious threats that can leave your home vulnerable and cost thousands in repairs. While many homeowners focus on securing windows and roofing, garage doors often get overlooked despite being one of the largest openings in your home’s exterior. This is why installing a stormproof garage door from someone like H&H Garage Doors is beneficial. A damaged garage door doesn’t just mean an expensive replacement. It can compromise your entire home’s structural integrity during a storm. When high winds breach your garage, the increased internal pressure can blow out windows, damage roofing, and even cause wall failures. Understanding how to protect, assess, and repair storm damage to your garage door is essential for every Orlando homeowner.

Why Storm Damage to Garage Doors Is a Serious Concern

Garage doors represent your home’s largest moving part and weakest structural point during severe weather. Standard residential garage doors aren’t built to withstand hurricane-force winds, making them particularly vulnerable to storm damage. Wind pressure creates multiple failure points on garage doors:

• Panel buckling: This occurs when sustained winds exceed the door’s design limits
• Track misalignment: It happens when debris impacts or extreme pressure warps the mounting system
• Spring failures: This result from sudden pressure changes that overload the counterbalance system
• Seal deterioration: It allows water intrusion that can damage your garage contents and home interior

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do After a Storm Damages Your Garage Door

Safety comes first when assessing storm damage. Never attempt to operate a visibly damaged garage door, as broken springs or bent tracks can cause serious injury. Follow this systematic approach:

• Document everything immediately with photos and video before touching anything
• Check for apparent structural damage like bent panels, broken glass, or separated sections
• Inspect the track system for alignment issues or debris lodged in the mechanism
• Test the door opener only if no visible damage exists—disconnect it if the door won’t move smoothly
• Contact your insurance company within 24-48 hours to report the damage
• Secure the opening with plywood or tarps if the door cannot close properly

How to Fix a Garage Door Damaged by a Storm

Storm damage repair complexity varies dramatically based on the extent and type of damage. Some issues require immediate professional attention, while others might allow for temporary solutions. Here are the following actions that can be taken:

• Inspect the tracks and rollers to check for debris, bends, or misalignment, and clean or realign them as needed.
• Check the springs and cables for signs of wear or breakage, but avoid attempting to repair these high-tension components without professional help.
• Replace damaged panels if they are dented or cracked, ensuring the door’s structural integrity is maintained.
• Test the garage door opener to verify it is functioning properly and not damaged by water or electrical surges.
• Lubricate moving parts such as hinges, rollers, and tracks to reduce friction and enhance operation.
• Examine weatherstripping along the bottom and edges of the door; replace worn or torn pieces to prevent water and debris from entering.

Tips to Prevent Garage Door Storm Damage in the Future

Proactive storm preparation significantly reduces your garage door’s vulnerability to damage. Hurricane garage door protection starts with understanding your door’s wind rating and your area’s storm risks. Consider scheduling professional inspections before hurricane season. H&H Garage Doors offers comprehensive storm preparation services to help Orlando homeowners identify vulnerabilities before severe weather strikes. Here are ways you can prevent damage at home:

• Install a hurricane-rated garage door or reinforce your existing door with bracing kits.
• Ensure all hardware, such as hinges and rollers, is securely fastened and in good condition.
• Seal gaps around the garage door to prevent water intrusion during heavy rains.
• Remove loose objects from your garage that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Consider adding wind-resistant panels or fabric screens to protect the garage opening further.
• Test your garage door regularly to ensure smooth operation and address any maintenance issues promptly.
• Invest in surge protectors for any electrical components associated with your garage door system.

Protecting Your Home’s Most Vulnerable Point

Your garage door is your home’s first defense against Florida’s unpredictable weather. Taking proactive steps to protect, maintain, and properly repair storm damage ensures your family’s safety and protects your investment. Don’t wait until the next storm warning to address garage door vulnerabilities. Contact us today for a professional assessment of your current door’s storm readiness and explore hurricane garage door protection options that fit your budget and needs.