Garage doors

Garage Doors Close-upBecause of their width, double-wide garage doors are more susceptible to wind damage than single doors. Unless you have a tested hurricane-resistant door, the wind may force it out of the roller track -- especially if the track is light weight or some of the anchor bolts are not in place. This occurs because the door deflects too much under excessive wind pressure and fails.

To secure your garage door:

  • Check with your local government building official to see if there are code requirements for garage doors in your area.
  • Check with your local building supplier or garage door retailer to see if a retrofit kit is available for your garage door.
You should probably reinforce your double-wide garage door at its weakest points. This involves installing horizontal and/or vertical bracing onto each panel, using wood or light gauge metal girds bolted to the door mullions. You may also need heavier hinges and stronger end and vertical supports for your door.

 

If you decide to retrofit your garage door with a kit that allows you to operate the door after it is installed, make sure the door is balanced by lowering it about halfway and letting go. If the door goes up or down, the springs will need adjusting. Note: Since the springs are dangerous, only a professional should adjust them.

If you are unable to retrofit your garage door with a kit specifically designed for your door, you can purchase garage door retrofit kits to withstand hurricane winds at your local building supply store. Also, check to see if the supplier can do the installation.

The above information is taken from IBHS's instructive pamphlet, "Is Your Home Protected from Hurricane Disaster? -A Homeowner's Guide to Retrofit."

send to a friend  view as printer-friendly  get widgets  RSS feeds
advertisement

Honolulu weather

A Few Clouds
85°F
5-day forecast | Hurricane Guide
advertisement

Marketplace

Experience the enjoyment and fun of learning an instrument from Alan Akaka .
A free 2-3 week summer transition program to help entering Kindergarten students adjust before the school year begins.
One year anniversary special $25 HA evening show and FREE buffet dinner, now through the end of August.
Get a Goal. Get a Life. Get College!
Territorial Airwaves is Hawaii's longest continuously running radio broadcast proudly celebrating 30 years on the radio!
advertisement
Join Kaiser Permanente for their 3rd Annual Take A Hike Series ! Fun for the whole family!
Check out the latest happenings Around Hawaii ...brought to you by Road Runner!
100% original, 100% local. Full episodes of shows and sports. Live streaming 24/7.
powered by Kudzu From fast food to fine dining, find it all in our Local Business Directory .
powered by AutoTrader.com Shop for cars, find a dealer, and get the latest automotive news in our Local Car Buying Guide powered by AutoTrader.com
HDRadio Better sound. New stations. No fees. Discover the benefits of HD RadioTM
Stay ahead of the storm. Find evacuation routes, safety tips and more in the Hurricane Guide.