Protecting Your Garage Door From Flooding

Garage Door Considerations in Flooding Areas

In the United States, flooding is the most common natural disaster. Damage from flooding is expensive to repair and can also cause health concerns from bacteria and sewage in the floodwaters or mold after the water has receded. Having a tight seal on your garage door can help mitigate the damage.

Inspect Your Garage Door

Begin by inspecting your garage door to see if you’re prepared for a flood. The things you should look for are:
• Does the bottom of the door have a cap?
• Is the weatherstripping in good condition?
• Are any of the panels rusted/rotted?
• Are any of the panels dented?
ª Are any of the hinges between the panels broken or loose?
• Is the door old, and has it been well-maintained?
• Answer yes if your garage door isn’t closing all the way.

If you answered yes to any of those questions, you may want to consider repairing or replacing your garage door.

Replacing Your Garage Door Before Flooding

If your garage door doesn’t close all the way, has visible damage such as rotting wood or significant dents, you can expect little in the way of flood protection. You’ll want to replace it before the next big storm rolls in.

While there is no such thing as a completely flood-proof garage door, we recommend the installation of a hurricane-rated garage door for the best protection. The material your garage door is constructed from makes a difference as well. Wooden garage doors require more maintenance than metal doors. They must be repainted on a regular basis to stay weather-resistant. Metal garage doors are much more durable in that respect.

Also, consider installing a threshold for your garage door. A threshold will help “seal” the bottom of your garage door at the opening better than just weatherstripping. A company that does garage door installations in Providence can give you more tips on threshold sealing.