Spring storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and even tornadoes—posing serious risks to your garage and the belongings inside. A damaged garage door can compromise your home’s security, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. Fortunately, with the right precautions, you can minimize storm-related damage and keep your garage safe. Here’s a comprehensive guide to protecting your garage from spring storms.
Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door
A well-maintained garage door is your first line of defense against severe weather. Start by checking for:
- Worn-out weatherstripping – Replace cracked or brittle seals to prevent water and debris from entering.
- Loose or damaged panels – High winds can exploit weak spots, leading to further damage.
- Misaligned tracks – Ensure the door operates smoothly to avoid jams during emergencies.
- Faulty springs and cables – These components bear the door’s weight; if they fail, the door may collapse under pressure.
Schedule a professional inspection if you notice any issues—early repairs can prevent costly storm damage.
Reinforce Your Garage Door
Strong winds can exert tremendous pressure on garage doors, causing them to buckle or detach. Consider these reinforcements:
- Install a bracing kit – Wind-resistant braces add structural support, preventing the door from bowing inward.
- Upgrade to a storm-rated door – If you live in a storm-prone area, invest in a high-impact garage door designed to withstand extreme weather.
- Use heavy-duty hinges and rollers – Reinforced hardware improves durability against wind and debris impact.
Secure Outdoor Items
Loose objects in your yard can become dangerous projectiles during a storm. Take these precautions:
- Store or anchor patio furniture, tools, and trash bins – Keep them inside the garage or secured with straps.
- Trim nearby trees and branches – Falling limbs can damage your garage roof or door.
- Check gutters and downspouts – Proper drainage prevents water from pooling near the garage foundation.
Prepare for Power Outages
Spring storms often knock out power, leaving manual garage doors inoperable. Ensure you can still access your garage:
- Test the manual release – Familiarize yourself with the emergency release mechanism in case the opener fails.
- Keep a flashlight handy – Store one near the garage entrance for visibility during outages.
- Consider a backup battery – Some garage door openers come with battery backups for uninterrupted operation.
Check Garage Door Seals and Insulation
Water infiltration can damage stored items and weaken the garage structure. Improve protection by:
- Applying a threshold seal – This prevents rainwater from seeping under the door.
- Insulating the door – Insulated doors resist warping and improve energy efficiency.
- Sealing gaps around windows and walls – Use weatherproof caulk to block drafts and moisture.
Monitor Weather Alerts
Stay ahead of approaching storms by:
- Setting up weather alerts – Smartphone apps or NOAA radios provide real-time storm updates.
- Closing the garage door early – Don’t wait until the last minute—high winds can make it unsafe to operate the door.
- Parking vehicles inside (if safe) – Protecting your car from hail or falling debris saves on repair costs.
Post-Storm Inspection
After a storm passes, assess your garage for damage:
- Look for dents, cracks, or water leaks – Address minor issues before they worsen.
- Test the door’s balance – Disconnect the opener and lift the door manually—if it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need adjustment.
- Check the opener’s functionality – Power surges can damage electronic components.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY measures help, some situations require expert attention:
- Severe structural damage – A warped or off-track door needs professional realignment.
- Electrical issues with the opener – Avoid handling wiring problems yourself.
- Persistent leaks or drafts – A technician can identify and seal hidden gaps.
Final Thoughts
Spring storms can be unpredictable, but proactive maintenance and smart upgrades significantly reduce the risk of garage damage. By reinforcing your garage door, securing outdoor items, and staying prepared for power outages, you’ll keep your garage—and home—protected all season long.
For professional garage door inspections, repairs, or storm-resistant upgrades, contact Loveland Garage Door Service today. Our experts are ready to help you weather any storm!
