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Hurricane Preparation Guide

Is your garage door ready for storm season? Use our countdown, checklist, and action guide to protect your home.

--Days
--Hours
--Minutes
--Seconds
Interactive Checklist

Is Your Garage Door Storm-Ready?

Click each item as you verify it. How does your door score?

Storm Readiness: 0/10
Hurricane-rated door installedDoor meets Florida Building Code wind-load requirements for your zone
Wind-load certification currentNOA (Notice of Acceptance) documentation is on file and up to date
Reinforcement bracing inspectedHorizontal and vertical bracing is secure with no loose bolts or rust
Weatherstripping intactSide and top seals are flexible, uncracked, and making full contact
Bottom seal in good conditionRubber bottom seal is not cracked, torn, or allowing daylight through
Tracks aligned and lubricatedTracks are plumb, clean, and rollers move freely without grinding
Springs tested and balancedDoor stays in place when lifted halfway and released (balance test)
Opener battery backup workingBattery backup allows door operation during power outages
Emergency release accessibleRed emergency release handle is reachable and disengages properly
Wind mitigation inspection completedCertified inspector has documented your door for insurance discounts
Action Plan

Before the Storm Hits

A step-by-step timeline for preparing your garage door when a hurricane is approaching.

72 HR

72 Hours Before

  • Inspect all weatherstripping and bottom seals for cracks or gaps
  • Test the door balance — lift halfway and release; it should stay put
  • Lubricate rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks with silicone spray
  • Check that the opener's battery backup is charged and functioning
  • Verify your emergency release handle works and you know how to use it
48 HR

48 Hours Before

  • Install hurricane bracing kit if your door is not wind-rated
  • Tighten all track brackets, hinge bolts, and mounting hardware
  • Clear the garage of items that could become projectiles if door fails
  • Move vehicles inside the garage or to a protected parking structure
  • Take photos of your garage door for insurance documentation
24 HR

24 Hours Before

  • Lock the garage door in the closed position using the manual lock
  • Disconnect the automatic opener to prevent wind-triggered openings
  • Place sandbags along the bottom seal if flooding is expected
  • Ensure you have flashlights, tools, and emergency supplies accessible
  • Know your evacuation route and have your insurance info ready
By the Numbers

Why Hurricane-Rated Doors Matter

180+
MPH wind resistance
$500+
Annual insurance savings
194%
Return on investment
#1
Vulnerable home opening
Learn About Hurricane Doors

Schedule a Free Hurricane Door Assessment

Our experts will evaluate your current door and recommend the right wind-rated solution for your home.