Preparing Your Garage Door for Hurricane Season in Raleigh

As Raleigh locals, we know that our region isn’t usually the first place you think of when you hear about hurricanes—but living in North Carolina means we’re definitely not immune to extreme weather. Hurricane season can bring torrential rains, powerful winds, and even the occasional inland storm surge. And when those storms roll in, one of the biggest points of vulnerability in many homes is the garage door. In fact, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes notes that if a garage door fails, high winds can enter your home and compromise the entire structure.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps you can take to prepare your garage door before hurricane season is in full swing. We’ll go over preventive measures, telltale signs of potential weaknesses, and important upgrades you might want to consider if your current door isn’t up to the task. By the end, you’ll have a solid game plan to safeguard your garage—and your home—against the forces of nature.

Why Garage Door Reinforcement Matters

A garage door is typically the largest opening in your home’s exterior. During a hurricane or severe storm, the wind pressure on that big surface can be immense. If the door gives way, wind can rush into the garage, increase internal air pressure, and potentially cause damage to walls, the roof, or other parts of your home. A reinforced garage door is designed to withstand these forces, helping to keep the storm outside where it belongs.

Raleigh might be located a bit inland compared to coastal areas like Wilmington or the Outer Banks, but we’ve seen our fair share of tropical storms and hurricane remnants. According to the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, hurricanes have historically traveled far enough inland to bring damaging winds and flooding to central parts of the state. Preparing your garage door isn’t just about peace of mind; it’s about real, proven protection when severe weather strikes.

Step 1: Inspect Your Garage Door for Structural Integrity

The first thing we recommend is a thorough inspection of your existing garage door. This step helps you identify any weak points or existing damage that could worsen in high winds. Here’s what to look for:

• Panel condition: Look for dents, cracks, rust, or signs of warping. Even small issues can become bigger problems under the stress of hurricane-force winds.
• Hinges and brackets: Check for loose screws or bolts. Vibration and daily use can loosen these over time. Tighten them if necessary.
• Tracks: Make sure they’re straight and free of obstructions. Bent or misaligned tracks can hinder the door’s ability to withstand wind pressure.
• Rollers: Worn or rusted rollers can pop out of the tracks more easily during intense shaking or wind forces. Replace any that don’t spin smoothly.
• Balance test: Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, you may have a spring or balance issue—definitely something to fix before storm season.

If you notice any major red flags—such as cracks in the door panels or severe track misalignment—reach out to a professional garage door technician for repairs. It’s much better to address these now than discover them mid-storm!

Step 2: Upgrade to a Wind-Rated Door (If Needed)

A standard garage door isn’t always built to handle high hurricane winds. Wind-rated or hurricane-resistant doors are specially designed and tested to stand up to stronger forces, typically featuring additional reinforcement points, thicker steel, and heavier-duty tracks. In some parts of the country—especially coastal zones—building codes even mandate wind-rated doors.

In Raleigh, we’re not universally required to install wind-rated doors, but we often recommend them if you’re replacing an older model and want maximum storm protection. When shopping for a wind-rated door, look for:

• Design Pressure (DP) rating: This indicates the level of pressure the door can withstand. A higher rating means more resilience in high-wind conditions.
• Reinforced hardware: This includes extra bracing in the tracks, more robust hinges, and additional bracketry.
• Impact-resistant materials: Some wind-rated doors also feature impact-resistant panels that can help protect against flying debris.

While these doors can be pricier, many homeowners feel the investment is worth it for the added peace of mind—and the potential for lower storm-related damages in the future.

Step 3: Install Vertical or Horizontal Braces

Already have a decent garage door in place but want more reinforcement? You can add vertical or horizontal bracing to the inside of the door. These bracing kits are designed to prevent the door from buckling under high wind pressure. Each brace typically runs from floor to ceiling (vertical) or from one side of the garage door to the other (horizontal), attaching to the door’s internal supports.

When installing braces:

• Follow manufacturer instructions: If you buy a bracing kit, it should come with detailed steps. Installing incorrectly can reduce effectiveness.
• Use sturdy hardware: Ensure the brackets are anchored into the door’s structural supports, not just the thin door paneling.
• Get professional help: Not comfortable drilling into your garage door? Our RJ Garage Door Services team in Raleigh can handle the job swiftly and correctly.

These braces can be temporary or permanent. Some homeowners prefer removable braces, which they only install when a storm warning is issued. Others opt for permanently installed supports that stay in place year-round. Either way, they add an extra layer of security when high winds pick up.

Step 4: Reinforce the Surrounding Structure

Remember, it’s not just the door itself that needs to be sturdy—the framing around your garage opening should also be up to code. If your home is older, the header, jambs, or anchor points around the garage door might not meet modern wind-resistance standards. If you’re concerned, a professional inspector or structural engineer can evaluate the load-bearing points around your garage door and recommend any necessary upgrades.

Common structural reinforcements might include:

• Strong hurricane ties: These metal connectors tie the door’s framework to the roof and walls more securely.
• Heavier-duty anchor bolts: Bolting the bottom of the garage door framing more robustly to the foundation adds extra wind resistance.
• Upgraded jamb materials: Replacing rotted or weak wood jambs with pressure-treated lumber or steel frames.

If you’re planning a full garage renovation or a home addition, it’s a great time to ensure these structural elements are up to par. Building codes in North Carolina may have changed since your home was constructed, and upgrading can do wonders for storm readiness.

Step 5: Seal Out Rain and Flood Waters

High winds often come with pounding rain, and in some cases, flash flooding. Make sure your garage door is well-sealed to keep water out. Not only can water damage anything stored in your garage, but if the flooding is significant enough, it could seep into the rest of your home.

Here’s how to waterproof your garage door area:

• Replace worn weatherstripping: The bottom seal and side seals are your first line of defense. If they’re brittle or cracked, replace them immediately.
• Check the threshold: You can install a rubber threshold seal on the floor of your garage entrance to keep out water. This can be especially helpful if your driveway slopes downward.
• Consider flood barriers: In areas prone to flooding, some homeowners use removable flood barriers or sandbags in front of the garage door. These can be deployed quickly when a storm is on the way.

Additionally, ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to minimize water pooling near the garage. Proper yard grading can also help direct water away from the foundation.

Step 6: Secure Windows and Vents

If your garage door includes windows for natural light or aesthetic appeal, you’ll need to fortify those, too. Strong winds can turn loose debris into projectiles that may shatter glass. If your door’s windows aren’t impact-rated, consider installing storm shutters or at least using plywood coverings when a hurricane warning is issued. You can also use shatter-resistant window film for added protection, although it won’t be as strong as true impact glass or shutters.

For garages that feature vents or exhaust fans (common in workshops), ensure these are securely fastened. Consider adding sturdy screens or shutters that can be closed when the weather gets rough, preventing wind-driven rain and debris from blowing in.

Step 7: Maintain the Door’s Hardware Year-Round

Hurricane season typically spans June through November in the Atlantic. But you can’t just wait until a storm forms off the coast to start thinking about maintenance. The best defense is consistent, year-round upkeep. At a minimum, aim to:

• Lubricate rollers and hinges: Use a silicone-based lubricant to keep moving parts smooth. This prevents rust that weakens the door over time.
• Tighten bolts and brackets: Every few months, do a quick once-over to make sure hardware stays secure.
• Clean and inspect the door surface: Spotting dents or chips in paint early helps you prevent corrosion. A quick wash removes debris that could scratch the finish.
• Schedule annual tune-ups: A professional checkup can catch small problems—like slight track misalignments—before they become big issues during a hurricane.

This regular maintenance habit will not only help you face hurricane season confidently, but also extend the overall lifespan of your garage door—saving you money down the road.

Step 8: Have a Hurricane Preparedness Plan

In addition to physical preparations, it’s smart to have a broader plan for hurricane season. Here are some key points to include:

• Know your area’s risk level: The National Hurricane Center issues watches and warnings well in advance of landfall. Keep an eye on local news and have a weather alert app on your phone.
• Gather emergency supplies: Stock up on water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget any necessary items for pets.
• Plan for power outages: If your garage door opener relies on electricity, make sure you know how to use the manual release in case you lose power.
• Decide when to reinforce: If you use removable braces or shutters, be clear on the threshold at which you’ll install them—do it early so you’re not rushing in high winds.
• Protect important documents: Keep essential paperwork in waterproof containers. If you have valuable tools in the garage, consider storing them higher off the ground to avoid flood damage.

Being prepared is half the battle. By combining a well-maintained, reinforced garage door with a robust emergency plan, you’ll be in a better position to weather even the worst storms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I really need a wind-rated door if I live in Raleigh?
A: While it may not be mandatory everywhere in the Raleigh area, having a wind-rated door can offer significant peace of mind. If your neighborhood or city has specific regulations, you’ll want to adhere to those. Even if it’s not required, a door rated for high winds can help protect your home when hurricanes do track inland.

Q: Can I reinforce my existing door instead of buying a new one?
A: In many cases, yes. Adding braces, upgrading hardware, or improving the track system can provide added strength. However, if your door is very old or severely damaged, replacement might be a more reliable (and cost-effective) solution in the long run.

Q: How can I tell if my door is already wind-rated?
A: Look for a label or sticker on the inside of the door with a wind-pressure rating or “Miami-Dade County approved” marking. If you can’t find any information, consult your door’s manufacturer or an installation professional for clarity.

Q: Will reinforcing my garage door make it too heavy for my opener?
A: It depends on how extensive the reinforcements are. Sometimes you may need to upgrade or adjust your opener or springs if you add significant weight. A professional can weigh your door and determine if your existing opener can handle it.

Call in the Raleigh Garage Door Experts

There’s a lot to think about when preparing your garage door for hurricane season, from simple inspections and weatherstripping replacements to full-blown door upgrades and structural reinforcements. If you feel overwhelmed—or simply want a professional opinion—our team at RJ Garage Door Services is here to help. We’ve seen how quickly a tropical storm can escalate, and we know exactly what steps to take to ensure your garage door can hold its own against severe weather.

We’ll start with a thorough inspection, checking for any vulnerabilities in your current setup. From there, we can discuss practical reinforcements or help you choose a wind-rated replacement door if necessary. And we’ll make sure your opener and spring system are up to the task of handling extra reinforcement. If you’d prefer to install removable braces or storm shutters, we can advise on the best products and set them up so they’re a breeze to deploy when that ominous forecast pops up.

Final Thoughts: Stay Ready, Stay Safe

While hurricane season in Raleigh might not be as intense as it is in coastal areas, it only takes one fierce storm to wreak havoc. Preparing your garage door is one of the smartest moves you can make to protect your home. Start by inspecting your existing door, consider necessary reinforcements or upgrades, and take the time to double-check seals, hardware, and the surrounding structure. Combine these measures with a solid emergency plan, and you’ll be far better off when the next tropical storm or hurricane decides to pass through.

At the end of the day, it’s all about peace of mind. Knowing your garage door won’t buckle under high winds means you can focus on keeping your family safe—and that’s truly invaluable. If you have any questions or need help putting these tips into action, don’t hesitate to reach out. RJ Garage Door Services has your back, from routine maintenance to hurricane-ready upgrades. Let’s weather the season together, Raleigh!