Oregon storms bring heavy rain, strong winds and flooding risks, and a single event can cause significant property damage. Your garage door protects your home or business from severe weather damage.
Explore ways to strengthen your garage door against storms.
Tips to Boost Garage Door Storm Protection in Oregon
Taking steps today prepares your door for whatever nature brings tomorrow. Here’s how you can stormproof your garage door:
1. Upgrade to a Wind-Resistant Garage Door
High winds during storms can damage your door and leave your property vulnerable. Consider replacing your door with a WindCode® wind-rated model. These doors feature reinforced construction, thicker panels and upgraded hardware.
2. Install a Bracing Kit
When a new door is out of budget, bracing kits provide cost-effective garage door wind reinforcement. Horizontal beams add extra support to your existing door. Ask your local garage door providers if they offer professional bracing kit installation.
3. Update Weather Stripping
Garage door rain protection starts with quality weather stripping around your frame. Check your existing seals for damage. If you see visible deterioration or light entering through gaps, it’s time to replace them. You can also fill small holes with water-resistant sealant to prevent water infiltration.
4. Secure Garage Door Tracks
Loose tracks can cause garage doors to shift during a storm. If you notice these red flags, call a professional to adjust the tracks:
- Shaky or uneven movement
- Visible gaps between the track and rollers
- Loud grinding or scraping noises
- The closed door appears crooked
5. Invest in an Opener With Backup Power
A garage door opener with battery backup operates when electricity fails. It lets you access vehicles during emergencies or secure your garage during weather warnings.
Preparation Steps for Different Weather Events
Besides storms, Oregon garage doors endure other weather events. Follow these preparation tips:
- High winds: Tighten all bolts, hinges and tracks to stop the door from lifting. Remove any loose items that could damage the door.
- Flooding: Install a waterproof vinyl or rubber threshold seal on the garage floor. This seal works together with the weather stripping at the bottom of the door. Raise sensitive or electrical equipment off the ground.
- Winter weather: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to rollers, springs and hinges to prevent stiffening. Replace worn weather stripping to keep out drafts. Clear any ice or snow that can cause the garage door to freeze to the ground.
Annual tuneups from professional technicians keep your garage door ready for any weather.
Partner With Valley Overhead Door for a Stronger Garage Door
Valley Overhead Door understands how Oregon weather affects garage doors. We carry a range of high-quality Clopay® overhead doors, including WindCode® reinforced options. Expert installations and repairs ensure your garage door stays strong. With over two decades of experience, we serve customers across the Willamette Valley with proven, quality service.
Get your garage door ready for the next storm. Contact us to request a service or schedule an installation.
