As a storm approaches, your neighbors worry that their garage doors will fly open or get damaged, but you stay calm. Why? Because you have got a secret weapon: garage door storm braces. This simple upgrade makes your garage door strong against damaging winds and keeps your home safe when the weather gets bad.
Installing garage door storm braces is not just smart; it is a game-changer for your home’s safety. And the best part? It is totally doable, and this guide will walk you through every step. From picking the perfect brace to getting it all installed, our Quad Cities team has you covered.
What Are Garage Door Storm Braces?
Garage door storm braces are special supports that help keep your garage door in place during strong winds and storms. These braces, made from materials like aluminum or steel, connect directly to your garage door. They distribute the force of the wind and any impact from debris across the door more evenly. Without these braces, the wind could push in parts of the garage door or pull it out, causing it to fail.
You place these garage door hurricane kits up inside your garage door when you know a storm is coming. But there is a little catch. Once you put these braces on, you can not open the garage door until you take them off again. So, it is something you do right before the storm hits and then remove once everything calms down.
What You Need to Know Before the Installation
There are a few important things you should know before you start installing storm braces on your garage door. This step is crucial to ensure that the installation process goes as planned and that you end up with a well-protected garage door.
Choose the Right Storm Brace for Your Garage Door
First off, garage doors vary in size, material, and design. That means you will need to find a storm brace that matches the specifications of your garage door. Pay attention to:
Size: Measure your garage door’s width and height. With accurate measurements, you ensure the garage door storm braces you choose can cover the entire door.
Material: We know garage doors can either be made of wood, metal, fiberglass, and more. Well, it turns out that storm braces have their preferences when it comes to different materials. Ask a garage door expert in your area about which storm braces might work with the materials you have.
Design: Consider whether your door is a single panel or sectional. Which brace, how many you might need, and the way you install it will depend on this.
Gather All Tools and Materials
Installing garage door storm braces involves some DIY skills. You will need basic tools, which might include:
- A drill
- Screwdrivers (both Phillips and flat-head)
- Wrenches
- A measuring tape
- Safety goggles and gloves
Remember: The exact tools can vary depending on the storm brace model, so check the installation instructions that come with the kit.
Understand Your Local Building Codes
Different areas have different rules about what you can and cannot do when modifying your home. So before you start drilling holes in your garage door, make sure you adhere to this:
Check Local Regulations: Some places require modifications to your garage, including storm braces, to meet specific building codes.
Permits: Find out if you need a permit to install storm braces on your garage door. It might sound like extra paperwork, but it is all about keeping your home safe and legal.
Some Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, some common mistakes can hinder the effectiveness of your garage door storm braces. Here are key missteps to avoid:
- Skipping measurements: Not all doors and braces are the same size. Ensure a perfect fit by measuring.
- Ignoring instructions: Each brace model is different. Follow the provided instructions closely.
- Over-tightening: While it is important to secure the braces well, over-tightening can damage your door.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Garage Door Storm Braces
Here is how you can install these garage door braces yourself in simple steps:
Measure Your Garage Door
First, you need to know the size of your garage door. Use a tape measure to find out the height and width of your door. This step is crucial because storm braces come in different sizes, and you want to ensure you buy the right fit for your door.
Positioning the Storm Brace
Position the brace against the garage door where you have planned to install it. If your brace is the type that spans the height of the door, you will typically start by hooking or sliding one end into the bracket at the top or bottom of the door. If your garage door is wider than the usual, you might need additional braces. In that case, evenly space them across the door to ensure balanced support.
Secure the Brace
Follow the instructions provided with your garage door storm brace kit. Extend or adjust the brace until it reaches the corresponding bracket on the other end of the door (top to bottom or vice versa). There might be a mechanism to lock it in place, such as a pin, a bolt, or a screw. Make sure it is securely fastened. Avoid over-tightening because it could damage the door or the brace.
Test the Installation
Test the installed storm brace by lightly pushing on it to ensure it is stable and securely attached. It should feel firm and not move or wobble.
Repeat if Necessary
If your garage door requires more than one brace for adequate protection, repeat the installation process for each brace. Remember to space it evenly across the door as recommended.
When to Call a Garage Door Professional
If at any point you feel unsure or uncomfortable with the installation process, it is best to call the pros. They know more about your garage door, including its complex mechanism. It would be helpful if your home is in an area with particularly strict building codes.
Garage Door Installation Near Me
Ready to ensure your garage door stands strong against the toughest storms? At Titan Garage Doors Quad Cities, we have got you covered. Specializing in garage door repair, maintenance, and installation, we understand the importance of having a secure and hurricane-proof garage door. From storm brace installations to routine maintenance checks, our skilled team knows how to protect your house from storms. Contact us today for a free estimate.
