How to Prevent Garage Door Damage During Extreme Weather Conditions?

Extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, snowstorms, high winds, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your garage doors. These conditions can lead to costly damage, impacting the door’s appearance, functionality, and longevity. Whether you have a standard garage door or a luxury garage door, it’s essential to take steps to protect it from the elements. Following these tips can prevent damage and ensure your garage door installation remains intact, saving you time and money on potential garage door repair.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door Regularly

Regular maintenance is one of the most effective ways to prevent damage from extreme weather. Before the harsh weather sets in, thoroughly inspect your garage doors. Check for signs of wear and tear, including cracks in the panels, rust on the springs, and any loose or worn-out parts. Make sure that all components are functioning correctly. 

Lubricate moving parts like the tracks, rollers, and hinges to ensure smooth operation. If you’re unsure about the maintenance or need a professional opinion, it’s always wise to hire an expert to perform a comprehensive checkup of your garage door installation.

2. Seal the Gaps Around Your Garage Door

During extreme weather, the smallest gaps around your garage doors can lead to drafts, moisture, and debris entering your garage, which can cause long-term damage. Consider installing weather stripping around the edges and bottom of your door to combat this. 

This will prevent cold air, snow, or rain from seeping inside. It will also improve insulation, making your garage more energy-efficient. For luxury garage doors, there are specialized, high-quality weather seals that can match the aesthetic and functionality of your door while providing excellent protection against the elements.

3. Protect Your Garage Door from Snow and Ice

Snow and ice buildup around your garage door can lead to significant damage if not adequately addressed. Snowdrifts can push against the door, creating pressure that may damage the panels, while ice can freeze the door in place, preventing it from operating smoothly. Regularly clear snow and ice from the area surrounding the door to prevent this. 

Consider installing a snow guard or barrier before the door to prevent snow from drifting into the garage. Keep the tracks and moving components clear of ice to ensure smooth operation during cold spells.

4. Reinforce the Garage Door Against High Winds

Strong winds, particularly during storms or hurricanes, can seriously threaten garage doors. The force of the wind can damage the panels or even lift the door off its tracks, causing costly garage door repair. To prevent wind damage, consider reinforcing your door with additional supports. 

Some luxury garage doors are designed to withstand high winds, so if you live in a region prone to storms, it may be worth upgrading to a more durable door. Additionally, ensure that the weatherstripping is intact and the door is balanced correctly to prevent it from dislodging in extreme wind conditions.

5. Keep Your Garage Door Motor Protected

The motor that powers your garage door installation can also be vulnerable to extreme weather. Freezing temperatures or excess moisture can cause the motor to malfunction, leaving your door inoperable. 

To prevent this, consider installing a protective cover for your motor or place it in an area of your garage that is less susceptible to the elements. If your garage is prone to extreme temperatures, invest in a temperature-controlled environment to safeguard the motor and other electrical components.

Protect Your Garage Door with Sam’s Garage Doors

Don’t let extreme weather damage your luxury garage door or garage door installation. Contact Sam’s Garage Doors for expert advice and service. Our team can help you protect your door from the elements and ensure it stays in excellent condition for years! Contact us today!