In the Sunshine State, we’re no strangers to the power and unpredictability of hurricanes. As Floridians, we know that preparing our homes for hurricane season is non-negotiable. While many of us focus on securing windows and doors, one crucial element that’s often overlooked is the garage door. In this blog, D & D Garage Door, your trusted Florida-based garage door company, sheds light on the vital role impact and wind-rated garage doors play in safeguarding your home during hurricane season.
The Threat of Hurricanes in Florida
Florida is highly susceptible to hurricanes due to its location. The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th, brings the potential for destructive storms that can wreak havoc on our homes. High winds, flying debris, and torrential rains are just some of the elements our homes must withstand during these storms.
The Garage Door Vulnerability
Your garage door is more than just an entry point for your car; it’s a crucial structural component of your home. If not properly secured, it can be a weak point during a hurricane, allowing wind and debris to enter your home and potentially causing catastrophic damage.
Impact and Wind-Rated Garage Doors: Your First Line of Defense
Strength Against High Winds: Impact and wind-rated garage doors are engineered to resist the high winds associated with hurricanes. They are designed and tested to meet specific wind load requirements, ensuring they stay in place during a storm.
Durability: These garage doors are constructed with reinforced materials, making them more durable and less likely to succumb to the forces of a hurricane.
Impact Resistance: Impact-rated garage doors are designed to withstand flying debris. They are constructed with materials that can absorb impact without breaking or allowing objects to penetrate your home.
Code Compliance: Many areas in Florida have building codes that require impact and wind-rated garage doors in hurricane-prone regions. Installing these doors not only protects your home but also ensures compliance with local regulations.
The Different Between Impact and Wind-Rate Garage Doors
Wind-Rated: The design pressure of a wind-rated door equals or exceeds the design pressure for the garage door opening in which a door is to be installed. Wind-rated garage doors can be designed to withstand up to 50lbs per square inch of positive or negative pressure. The higher the positive value, the more weight the door can handle before buckling and continue going UP & DOWN. A standard wind code value is 20 PSF.
Our D & D team offers numerous wind-rated doors that will protect your home during hurricane season. Here are just a few you can install for your garage.
Clopay Canyon Ridge Limited Edition
Impact Rated: When hit by debris, an impact-rated door will still operate. Such strength and durability in a garage door safeguards the entire house to an extent that can potentially lower your homeowner’s insurance. In the southeast region of Florida, an impact-rated door is required; however, it has become mandatory in other areas as well.
Our D & D team offers numerous impact-rated doors that will protect your home during hurricane season. Here are just a few you can install for your garage.
Wayne Dalton 8300 Colonial / Ranch
Clopay Premium Series (Wood Look)
The Benefits Extend Beyond Hurricane Protection
Impact and wind-rated garage doors don’t just safeguard your home during hurricane season; they offer year-round benefits:
Improved Energy Efficiency: These doors provide better insulation, which helps regulate the temperature inside your garage and reduces energy consumption.
Enhanced Security: Impact-rated doors are more secure, offering peace of mind against potential break-ins.
Increased Home Value: Investing in these doors can increase your home’s resale value and appeal to potential buyers.
When it comes to hurricane preparedness, don’t overlook your garage door. Impact and wind-rated garage doors are your first line of defense against the destructive forces of hurricanes, providing protection, durability, and peace of mind. At D & D Garage Door, we understand the unique challenges that Florida homeowners face during hurricane season. Contact us today to learn more about our impact and wind-rated garage door options and ensure your home is well-prepared to weather the storm. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities!
