As the balmy days of summer approach, so does the looming threat of hurricane season in North Carolina. Homeowners in this coastal state understand the importance of fortifying their properties against the destructive forces of hurricanes. It’s a top priority! This means trimming trees to make sure no loose branches careen off into your house and reinforcing windows and walls to make sure they can withstand any high winds and debris.
Another crucial part of preparing for storm season in NC is ensuring the resilience of your garage doors. As the largest entry point, these should be reinforced or replaced with models rated for high wind resistance to prevent structural failure during the storm. Let’s take a look at why making sure your garage doors are prepared is a key part of getting ready for a North Carolina hurricane season.
Understanding the Risks
North Carolina’s geographical location makes it particularly susceptible to the ravages of hurricanes. Having an extensive coastline means miles and miles of gorgeous beaches, but it also exposes coastal cities (like Wilmington) to high winds, torrential rains, and storm surges. All of these can wreak havoc on residential properties, causing flooding and other damage. And among the vulnerable points of a home, garage doors often bear the brunt of the storm’s fury. Weak or damaged doors can fail under pressure, leading to structural damage and compromising the safety of your home and family.
Should you get a new garage door?
Investing in new garage doors designed to withstand hurricane-force winds offers a proactive approach to safeguarding your home. Modern garage doors are engineered with advanced materials and construction techniques, making them more resistant to extreme weather conditions. Look for models that are rated for high wind speeds and impact resistance, meeting (or exceeding) local building codes and hurricane preparedness guidelines.
Of course, there are also aesthetic reasons to consider an upgrade. Today’s designs offer a range of styles, colors, and features to complement any architectural aesthetic while improving energy efficiency and convenience. Plus, new doors may come with warranties that provide added peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected for years to come.
Repairing Existing Garage Doors
Getting a new garage door is, naturally, not the only option. For homeowners on a budget or those with relatively new garage doors, repairing existing doors can be a great route. That said, it’s essential to assess the extent of any damage and the door’s overall condition before choosing repair over replacement. Minor issues such as dents, dings, or misalignment can often be addressed through professional repairs, reinforcing weak points and restoring functionality. More major issues really might warrant a replacement. When it comes to hurricane preparedness, you’re always better off safe than sorry. Remember — just because your garage door has withstood a storm, that doesn’t mean it will withstand the next one. It’s always better to have the garage door inspected so you can be completely sure it’s ready for whatever blows in.
When it comes to ensuring that repairs are conducted safely and effectively, you need a qualified garage door technician. A professional, like the technicians at Crawford Door Systems in Wilmington, NC, can assess the structural integrity of the door, identify areas of concern, and recommend appropriate repairs or reinforcements. It’s just not a DIY kind of job. Also, routine maintenance can really go a long way to making your garage doors last and optimizing their performance — especially during hurricanes.
Making a Decision
When deciding between upgrading to new garage doors or repairing existing ones, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the age and condition of your current doors. If you can’t remember when they were installed. You can always have a technician come and evaluate the age and condition of the doors. Once you have all the information, you can decide whether it’s better to leave the doors as-is for another stormy season, repair them, or invest in new garage doors altogether. A reputable contractor like the team at Crawford Door Systems, will be both knowledgeable about these requirements and have the skills to ensure your new doors meet or exceed safety standards and withstand the forces of nature. It’s worth remembering that replacing your garage door offers a great return on investment, considering it will end up protecting all your property and belongings when a storm inevitably arrives.
Preparing for hurricane season in North Carolina requires a comprehensive approach to home protection, and garage doors play a critical role in safeguarding your property. Whether you choose to upgrade to new doors or repair existing ones, prioritizing the resilience and structural integrity of your garage doors is essential for weathering the storm.
Sponsored by
