Are You Required to Have a Wind-Resistant Garage Door?
Modern building codes require garage doors to be wind-resistant, but the degree of wind resistance depends on the area you live in. Some states have special requirements due to extreme weather events.
Why Are Wind-Resistant Garage Doors Necessary?
Garage doors protect your property from wind and storm damage caused by extreme weather events such as hurricanes or high winds. They are also necessary for people living in areas that do not experience these conditions because an occasional thunderstorm can occur that can also cause minor or major wind damage.
A failed garage door can serve as an entry point for high winds, contributing to a buildup of internal pressure that leads to roof and structural damage. If you live in hurricane-prone areas, your garage door must be wind-resistant with a high wind code rate for maximum protection.
In 1992, South Florida was hit by Hurricane Andrew, a Category 5 hurricane, which propelled the change in building codes. Many states and cities have since adopted the International Building Code (IBC) to protect buildings against hurricane-forced winds in their area.
States With Special Requirements for Garage Doors
While wind-resistant garage doors are a requirement in most places, some states are more susceptible to frequent and strong gusts of wind. As a result of terrain and weather conditions, they have higher requirements. Depending on where you live, there will be varying risk levels that will determine the garage wind rating that will best protect your home. Garage doors have special requirements in the following states:
- Florida
- California
- Missouri
- Utah
- Kansas
- Nevada
How Do You Know If Your Garage Door Is Wind-Resistant?
One of the easiest ways to find out if your garage door is wind-rated is by checking it for a label. The label should show your door’s Windcode® rating, which features the maximum windspeed it can withstand and the pressure it can endure measured in pounds per square foot (PSF). If you live in Florida, your label will feature a “W” rating which ranges from W1 to W9 depending on the level of wind resistance your garage door has.
If you cannot find the label, there is no way of knowing if your garage door is wind-rated. It is not uncommon since wind-related requirements for garage doors were only implemented in 2006.
Give Your Home the Wind Protection It Needs
Whether you need a new wind-resistant garage door or repairs for the one you have, The Doorman will provide a long-lasting solution for you. Fill out our online form to get in touch with us.
