Many building codes require garages to meet certain standards, including a specific wind rating. A wind rating identifies a structure and its components’ ability to resist wind in weather conditions like tropical storms, tornados and hurricanes.
The WindCode® rating system uses a scale of W1 to W9, with the highest number offering the most resistance to wind.
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Why Hurricane-Rated Garage Doors Are Important
A garage door with the proper WindCode rating is critical to your peace of mind knowing you have the best protection for your family and home. Factors including the type of structure, height, exposure rating and the area where you live determine which level of wind protection you should have for your garage door.
Today’s advanced testing of garage doors factors in the high speed and swirling motion of winds during storms and hurricanes. The testing process mimics positive pressure when the wind blows against your garage door. It also tests negative pressure when the wind pulls your garage door.
The amount of positive and negative pressure your garage door can withstand from wind and wind-borne debris is measured in pounds per square foot (PSF). The higher the number, the more weight a door can handle.
Are WindCode Ratings Important in Florida?
You must follow WindCode rating regulations when living on the coast or around areas with significant hurricane seasons. The ratings signify the strength of your garage door against winds ranging from 85 to 150 miles per hour.
The correct wind rating protects the structural integrity of your garage and your home. Otherwise, a pressure buildup could lead to hazards like wall and roof damage.
You can check the side of your garage door for a label or sticker indicating a WindCode rating and positive and negative PSF values. If you need help locating this information, you can contact your local door company to inspect your door and provide guidance as needed.
Benefits of WindCode-Rated Garage Doors
Beyond safety, additional advantages of having a hurricane-resistant door include:
- Noise reduction: These garage doors can keep you from hearing noisy disturbances, like traffic.
- Better insulation: The doors keep the wind out for a more balanced temperature indoors.
- Lower insurance rates: Storm-protected doors appeal to many insurance companies, with some offering discounts on premiums following installation.
Contact The Doorman for More Information
The Doorman is your source for garage door answers and solutions in and around southeast Florida. If you need a garage door inspection, service or replacement, contact our team today!
