Hurricane Season Readiness: How Your Garage Door Can Make or Break Home Protection

Haas Door • July 31, 2025

As hurricane season ramps up, homeowners across the Gulf Coast, Atlantic states and beyond are checking emergency kits, trimming trees and securing loose outdoor items. But one of the most important — and most overlooked — steps in hurricane prep starts with your garage.


At Haas Door, we know that your garage door isn’t just about curb appeal. It’s a vital barrier that protects your home from wind, water and debris. And in high-wind events like hurricanes, it can be a first line of defense in protecting your home.


Why Your Garage Door Matters in a Storm

A compromised garage door can cause catastrophic damage. According to FEMA, garage door failure is one of the leading causes of structural damage during hurricanes. Once the door is breached, wind pressure can build inside your home, lifting the roof and blowing out walls.  

That’s why choosing a wind load-rated garage door — one specifically tested and reinforced for high-wind conditions — is critical in hurricane-prone areas.  Hurricanes are the best-known wind event that threatens homes, but wind-loaded doors will also protect against high winds and tornadoes.    


What to Look For in a Hurricane-Ready Garage Door

  • Aesthetic & Thermal performance: There are so many options available today for wind-loaded and impact doors, that you can start with beauty and energy efficiency. Aesthetics and energy-saving properties do not have to be sacrificed for wind load. There are multiple design options available in every product series.   
  • Wind Load: The +/- pressures required for state and local codes vary by location. Each garage door series and style also has multiple pressure options available. Determine the series and options of the garage door, then select a pressure to meet or exceed local and state wind load codes. For example, if an insulated garage door is desired but the location is a warm climate, a 600 Series garage door may be selected. If design pressures of +23.9/-27.0 are required for a door up to 8’2” for the area, request the +23.9/-27.0 or a higher pressure. Always go up in pressure if an exact match is not available. 
  • Impact Resistance: Local and state building codes will indicate if an area requires impact resistance. Many garage doors have multiple window styles, placements, and glazing options to meet any home style. To resist penetration from flying debris during a hurricane, impact glazing options are available. We offer Clear, Bronze, Dark Gray, and Pebble. 
  • Reinforced Design: Wind-rated doors often feature additional bracing, heavier-gauge steel, and upgraded hardware to withstand extreme conditions better.
  • Professional Installation: Even the strongest door can fail if it’s not installed correctly. Always work with a professional installer familiar with local code and who can help guide.


Peace of Mind, Built In

At Haas Door, we manufacture garage doors built for strength and durability, including models designed specifically for high-wind regions. Our wind load-rated options combine storm-tested performance with the style and custom finishes you expect from our products.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade before hurricane season hits or want to make sure your existing door is up to the task, we can help.


Storm Coming? Here’s a Quick Checklist

  • Inspect your garage door for any visible wear or damage.
  • Check all bolts and screws. Your local dealer should inspect any loose items.
  • Clear your garage of loose items that could become airborne.
  • If your door isn’t wind-rated, consider upgrading now — before the next storm warning.


Don’t let your garage door be the weak point in your storm prep. Reach out today to learn more about our wind-rated options and how we can help you weather hurricane season with confidence.

Contact your local Haas Door dealer to get started.



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