How to Storm-Proof Your Garage Door

Strong storms can take a toll on garage doors. Homeowners must often purchase and install a new door to ensure it can withstand extreme weather. Hurricane-proof doors that meet the latest code requirements in storm-prone areas are an example. But it may be possible to retrofit an existing door depending on its age, condition, and wind load rating. Here are some options you might want to consider, so your garage door is ready to weather the next storm.

Install Temporary Bracing

You can purchase garage door braces that reinforce it from the inside. If a storm is predicted, place them before high winds arrive. This is a relatively inexpensive option. Bracing retrofit kits are also available and include the braces and hardware you need for your type of garage door.
Typically, the garage door track should be at least 14 gauge; its rating can be found via markings on the track or in the owner’s manual. It usually takes just some screws and a drill to secure the bracing. According to Bobvila.com, installing a bracing kit for double-door costs about a third of the price of installing a new door of a similar size. A kit for single-door costs even less.

Protect the Door with Hurricane Panels

Hurricane panels protect older garage doors from impacts. Heavy objects can be tossed about in high winds, which can easily break and penetrate a weaker door. The panels mount to the exterior of the garage door. Usually made of steel or aluminum, they are screwed or clipped onto the door from the outside, depending on the product you buy.

Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door

The condition of your garage door can determine whether it can handle the next storm. In addition to storm-proofing it with our helpful suggestions, don’t forget maintenance. Routine checks and minor fixes can keep it in peak condition, so you’ll want to:

  • Look for holes or tears in the seal and weatherstripping.
  • Use a silicone sealant to repair any damaged seals.
  • Replace any worn gaskets along the edge of the garage door opening.
  • Check for worn hinges, locks, and other hardware and replace them before the next storm.
  • Inspect the track and, if necessary, remove obstructions or align it properly.

Is It Time for a New Garage Door?

If you have an older door or one that’s not in the best condition, investing in a storm-ready door is a good idea. It can save time as you won’t need braces or panels. Just make sure the garage door you select has a wind load rating that complies with local city codes. Different regions have different requirements; a garage door installer should be able to identify the proper rating.

If your garage door is damaged in any way, looks battered, or struggles to open and close, it’s time to replace it. Hurricane-rated garage doors feature heavy-duty construction and a reinforced design that includes hurricane posts. Adding strength to the door, these posts are anchored to the header on top (using heavy-duty galvanized hardware), while the middle of the door is strapped to the post. This makes it harder for wind forces to pull it outward. Galvanized hardware also pins the bottom of the post to the floor.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

We supply and install high-quality, durable garage doors in Southern California. Numerous styles are available to complement your home, in sizes to accommodate single-car and multi-car garages. Doors can also be customized with the color, stain, or finish you choose. For more information on our garage doors and garage door openers, and to learn more about how to protect yours as if it were a hurricane-proof door, call 714-989-7421. You can also receive your new door estimate online.

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11 Ways to Boost Garage Security

The garage door is often the most prominent feature of a home’s front façade. Depending on many factors, it may also be the most vulnerable. It’s a common entry point for burglars. And garages hold many valuables, from cars to power tools, to lawnmowers and other items we don’t often think thieves are looking for. You can avoid theft with these effective ways to boost garage door security and protect your garage.

  1. Close the Door : It’s not uncommon to see garage doors left open in residential neighborhoods. Even if you briefly leave the area unattended when, for example, taking out the garbage or doing yard work, a thief can quickly do their dirty work. Simply leaving the garage door closed can avoid trouble.
  2. Add a Garage Door Lock : A handle is like an open invitation to a burglary. Many handles don’t lock on their own, but you can install a locking handle for protection. Also put a slide lock on the inside of the door, which manually slides into place from the inside. A padlock attached to a door track is also effective.
  3. Lock the Entry to Your House : If you have an attached garage, lock the door between the garage and your house. An unlocked door allows easy entry when your garage has already been compromised. Installing a steel security door with a deadbolt provides even more protection.
  4. Cover/Frost the Windows : An effective precaution is to cover the windows to your garage. Blinds or curtains work well, or you can add a translucent film that will let in some sunlight. Frosted glass will too, while hiding whatever a would-be thief may be looking for.
  5. Secure Your Garage Door Opener Remote : Never leave the remote unattended in the car. Some people leave it in the glovebox; others let it dangle from the sun visor. Instead, keep the garage door opener remote in a pocket or your purse, link it to a keychain, and always store it in your house.
  6. Cover the Emergency Release Cord : Using a coat hanger, a garage door can be opened from the outside in under a minute. To prevent this, cover the emergency release cord so a thief can’t reach it. Securing the cord with a zip tie can also boost garage door security.
  7. Add Motion Sensing Floodlights : Thieves prefer to work in darkness. A burst of bright light usually sends them running, which is why motion-detecting floodlights are an effective deterrent, especially for detached garages that might not be illuminated as well. There are solar-powered lights that don’t require electrical connections.
  8. Install Security Cameras : Place the camera in a visible location. No burglar want’s their face, physical appearance, or clothing recorded. Some security cameras are motion-activated, and start recording when you leave or someone approaches, while other models have night vision. Others sync to smart home systems so you can monitor your garage door from a smartphone.
  9. Keep Valuables Out of Sight : High-value items should not be near windows or where they can be seen from outside. Instead, place them in closed cabinets or a separate storage room. Also, store your tools in a specialized cabinet with locks; if necessary, add locks to your tool storage.
  10. Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener : The newest garage door openers can be operated using a smartphone app. Some of these, like MyQ from Liftmaster, shows you whether the door is open or closed and, if someone tries to break in, you’ll get an alert on your phone. You can even tap the screen to close the door or open it to let someone in.
  11. Update Your Garage Door : A secure garage door lock isn’t enough. Your garage door should be in good condition. Warping, poor seals, and damaged/run-down garage doors are a security risk. Outdated units should be replaced with secure options like steel garage doors. A fresh new door will also improve curb appeal and likely energy efficiency.

Schedule New Garage Door Installation or Repair Today

Mesa Garage Doors installs garage doors, garage door openers, and wood gates for clients across Southern California. We are the nation’s largest garage door installation company. Our factory trained installers and repair technicians provide high-quality service every time for our Bronze Series, Gold Series, and Platinum Series doors. To get a new door or receive a repair estimate, contact us online or call 714-975-5951.

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