Earlier this year, the Norman, Oklahoma, tornado ripped across the central US, destroying several homes and businesses. It also injured several people and ruined a lot of livelihoods. Alongside the damages, the storm also exposed a weak point of US homes and businesses – garage doors.
In a Fox Weather report, Ian Giammanco, the Lead Research Meteorologist at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety Research Center, claimed that garage doors are a major weak point during severe weather. He stated that the Norman, OK, tornado itself damaged a lot of garage doors and led to other types of garage door-induced damages.
The storm situation is likely to get worse in the US over time. According to a report from the First Street Foundation, severe storm risks in the US will grow in the coming decades. This means the country will experience more severe destruction, including damage to garage doors.
The question now is, what do you do when your garage door is damaged in a storm? The simple and logical solution is, of course, to get it fixed, but how do you go about this? That’s what we’ll work out in this article, where we’ll tell you exactly what to do if your garage door is damaged in a storm.
Assess the Extent of the Damage
After a storm, it is important to carefully inspect your garage door to determine the extent of the damage. Look for visible signs such as dents, cracks, or misalignment. Pay attention to the tracks, springs, cables, and opener system as well. Assessing the damage will help you understand whether the door requires immediate repair or if it needs to be completely replaced.
Secure the Area
If your garage door has been significantly damaged, it is important to secure the area to prevent further issues. If the door is stuck open, use sturdy objects like wooden planks or bricks to block the entrance temporarily. This will prevent unauthorized access and protect your belongings from theft or damage. Also, ensure that the area is cordoned off and clearly marked to warn others of the potential danger.
Contact a Professional Garage Door Repair Service
Repairing a damaged garage door requires specialized knowledge and expertise. That’s why it’d be best if you get in touch with a professional garage door repair service and have them take care of the job in a professional manner. They have all the necessary skills, tools, and experience that can get the job done efficiently in a matter of hours.
As stated by the Atlantic Ocean Group, be it a long-term renovation plan or a simple repair job, you will be in safe hands when working with experienced garage door repair experts. The prompt action of such professional garage door contractors can help prevent additional complications and ensure the safety and functionality of your garage door.
Document the Damage for Insurance Purposes
When dealing with storm damage, it is crucial to document the state of your garage door for insurance purposes. For that, you should take photographs or videos of the garage door. This evidence will support your insurance claim and increase the chances of receiving adequate compensation for the repairs or replacement.
Once the photos are taken, hand them over to your insurance provider along with any other necessary documentation. Only then will they be able to initiate the claims process and advise you accordingly afterward.
Remove Debris and Clean the Area
Storms often leave debris scattered around the affected area, including your garage. Before any repairs can be carried out, it is important to remove any debris and clean the area. This will ensure a safe working environment for the repair professionals and prevent any further damage or accidents. Be cautious when handling sharp or heavy objects, and consider using personal protective equipment if necessary.
Take Preventive Measures for Future Storms
While you cannot control the weather, you can take preventive measures to minimize the impact of future storms on your garage door. For this, you should consider installing storm-resistant garage doors. Such doors are specifically designed to withstand harsh weather and last longer than ordinary garage doors.
Reinforce your garage door with extra bracing or supports to make it more resilient. Regular maintenance, such as lubricating moving parts and inspecting the door for any signs of wear and tear, will also help identify and address potential issues before they become significant problems.
As told in an NPR report, storms across the world are getting more and more dangerous. This is mostly to do with climate change, something that we’re repeatedly failing to halt. As sad as this is, we must deal with the consequences of climate change, and that includes preparing for these storms and taking necessary action to get back to our regular lives once they’re gone for the time being.
Your garage doors are not immune to storm damage. That’s why you must know how to get them fixed after they’re hit by the storm, and the points we’ve walked you through above will help you do just that as efficiently as possible.
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Hello there! This article on dealing with garage door damage after a storm is an absolute lifesaver. The Norman, Oklahoma tornado incident truly underscores the vulnerability of garage doors during severe weather, and your breakdown of post-storm steps is incredibly helpful. The emphasis on assessing damage comprehensively, from visible signs to the entire garage door system, sets a practical tone for homeowners.
The suggestion to secure the area with makeshift barriers if the door is stuck open is a brilliant interim solution, addressing immediate safety concerns before professional help arrives. Recommending professional garage door repair services, especially citing the expertise of the Atlantic Ocean Group, instills confidence in readers seeking efficient and reliable solutions.
Documenting the damage for insurance purposes is a tip that many homeowners might overlook, so kudos for highlighting its importance. The practical advice to promptly initiate the claims process, coupled with photos or videos, adds a layer of preparedness that could make a significant difference in the aftermath of a storm.
The attention to post-storm cleanup, including debris removal and creating a safe environment for repair professionals, showcases a holistic approach. The call to action for preventive measures against future storms, such as storm-resistant garage doors and regular maintenance, demonstrates foresight in mitigating potential damage.
Your acknowledgment of the broader issue of increasing storm dangers worldwide due to climate change adds a thoughtful touch, urging readers to prepare and take necessary action. Overall, this article serves as an invaluable guide for homeowners navigating the aftermath of storm-induced garage door damage. Thanks for the thorough and practical insights!
Best Regards,
Joe E. Eells
Castle Impact Windows