In a hurricane or strong tropical storm, the garage door is often the largest and weakest opening on a house. If high winds push the door in, pressure inside the home can rise quickly and damage the roof. A little preparation before storm season goes a long way.
Before hurricane season
- Have the springs, cables, rollers and hinges inspected. Worn parts are more likely to fail under wind load.
- Check that the door closes fully and the bottom seal sits flat on the floor.
- Ask about a wind-rated door or a reinforcement kit if your door is old or thin. Many newer doors are built to higher wind ratings.
- Make sure you know how to use the manual release and lock, in case the power goes out.
When a storm is coming
- Park your car inside if you can. It adds weight and helps keep debris away from the door.
- Unplug the opener to protect it from power surges.
- Move bins, bikes and loose items away from the door so they do not become projectiles.
- Do not open the door during the storm, even briefly.
After the storm
Before running the opener, look for bent tracks, dented or bowed panels, loose cables and water in the opener or wall control. If the door looks off track or damaged, do not force it. A bent track or broken spring can turn a small repair into a big one.
Homes near the water in League City, Seabrook and Pasadena see the most wind and salt exposure. Our emergency garage door service can secure a damaged door after a storm.
Need help now? Call All In One Garage Doors at (832) 434-7291 for garage door and gate service across Houston, Friendswood, Pearland, League City, Sugar Land, Katy, Cypress and the surrounding cities.