Garage doors are an essential part of your home. They comprise a large percentage of your home’s facade. They provide added security to your home. They add to the look of your home. But have you thought about their role in protecting against the elements? Neighborhood Garage Door Services of Stamford, CT has! Let’s check out what role overhead doors play, and what your need to know about it.
Garage door wind load – more important than you think
Storm protection
Some estimates claim that up to 80% of the cost of damage during hurricanes can be traced back to garage door wind load failure. As a garage door is damaged by debris, it can compromise the structural integrity. Sustained high-speed winds, as well as sudden gusts can eventually cause the door to fail altogether. When this happens, it actually increases the likelihood of roof damage. How can this happen?
With the protection of the overhead door gone, hurricane force winds suddenly have no impediment to your garage space. While these extreme winds can get into your garage, they can’t get out. This causes an increase in air pressure in your garage. Combine this with the low pressure outside, typical of hurricane situations, and your garage can sustain catastrophic structural failure. Walls can be damaged, both exterior and adjoining interior. Also, the roof can explode outward and upward. If the adjoining interior walls are damaged, this can lead to the same effects inside your house.
Insurance benefits
Having a storm-rated, or better yet, hurricane-rated door can prevent the damage mentioned above. As a result, you may qualify for a discount on your insurance premium for your home. Contact your insurance company about what benefits they may offer. Some companies offer up to 30% off your payment.
Protecting against typical weather
All areas are subject to thunderstorms and the like. These storms can cause wind damage as well. In addition, damage can be caused by flying debris during thunderstorms. It’s best to always go with an impact-resistant door. A compromised door can lead to further wind damage, water damage from rain, snow , or sleet, as well as damage to the contents of your garage.
Protecting against severe weather
If you live in an area that frequently faces tornadoes, blizzards, or hurricanes, it’s best to invest in a hurricane-proof door. Doors that are compromised in these situations face even more potential damage than in typical storm situations. You can see build up of inches of rain, snow, or ice. This can result in all kinds of structural problems costing thousands of dollars of damage.
Check with your local government to get guidance on garage door wind load requirements and codes. Some mandate a resistance of up to 130 mph sustained winds. Then, purchase the appropriate equipment. You may go with installing a simple bracing kit. This is a stand-alone product that can be added to your existing overhead door to reinforce it. There are some drawbacks to this option. First, they are not as highly rated against wind as a hurricane-proof door. Second, they are not a permanent addition to your door, but a case-specific add on. This means you have to put it in place every time a storm is coming. You then have to take it back off before using the door again.
A better option is to install a hurricane-proof door. Impact resistant doors are designed to stand up to the effects of strong forces being exerted on them. A hurricane door can also stand up to these forces, but is also designed to resist the twisting that is commonly experienced during a hurricane.
If you’re considering a hurricane-proof garage door replacement, Neighborhood Garage Door Services of Stamford, Connecticut has you covered. Call us today and one of our professional technicians will help you choose the perfect door for your needs. We can be on site as quickly as today, so don’t delay. We’re here to help!
