Preparing Your Garage Door for Storm Season: Essential Tips
January 10, 2024 6 min read
# Preparing Your Garage Door for Storm Season: Essential Tips
Washington's storm season can be tough on garage doors. High winds, heavy rain, and debris can cause significant damage if your door isn't properly prepared. Here's how to protect your investment.
Pre-Season Inspection Checklist
Structural Elements
Weather Seals: Check the rubber seals around your door for cracks or gaps. Damaged seals allow water and drafts to enter.
Bottom Seal: The seal at the bottom of your door takes the most abuse. Replace it if it's cracked, brittle, or no longer makes contact with the floor.
Panels: Look for cracks, dents, or rust spots that could weaken under storm conditions.
Mechanical Components
Springs: Listen for squeaks or observe uneven movement. Weak springs are more likely to fail during storms. Consider a professional spring replacement if you notice any issues.
Cables: Check for fraying or wear. Storm season puts extra stress on cables. Read our complete cable repair guide for more details.
Tracks: Ensure tracks are properly aligned and free of debris.
Hardware: Tighten all bolts, screws, and hinges.
Reinforcement Options
Wind Bracing
For older doors or high-wind areas like Westport and Ocean Shores, consider installing wind bracing kits. These horizontal braces strengthen panels against wind pressure.
Impact-Resistant Doors
If you're due for a replacement, consider upgrading to a wind-rated door. Our new installation service includes wind-rated options designed to withstand high winds and debris impact.
Automatic Backup Battery
Power outages are common during storms. A battery backup for your opener ensures you can still access your garage. Ask about our opener services for battery backup options.
Emergency Preparation
Know Your Manual Release
Every garage door opener has a manual release. Learn how to use it before you need it during a power outage.
Keep the Area Clear
Remove items that could become projectiles near your garage door.
Have Emergency Contacts Ready
Save our number: +1 360 492 2937. We offer 24/7 emergency service.
After the Storm
Post-Storm Inspection
After any significant storm:
1. Visually inspect the door for damage 2. Test the opener and safety features 3. Check for water intrusion 4. Listen for unusual sounds during operation
When to Call a Professional
Contact us if you notice: - Visible damage to panels or hardware, Door won't open or close properly, Unusual sounds or movements, Water damage or leaks
Special Offer
Storm Season Special: Get a FREE tune-up with any new door installation! Call +1 360 492 2937 to schedule.
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Don't wait until the storm hits. Contact Garage Door Humptulips today for a pre-season inspection and ensure your door is ready for whatever weather comes.
Also check our maintenance value analysis to understand how preventive care saves money long-term.