Living on and around the picturesque North Carolina coastline is a dream for many — and for good reason! The breathtaking views, the soothing sound of waves, and the fresh ocean breeze make it an ideal place to call home. Plus, being situated near the Cape Fear River means residents of the greater Wilmington, NC area enjoy both beach views and a lush wonderland of rivers and forests.
The beauty of coastal living, however, comes with the reality of potential storms. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and heavy rainfall are all just a part of life on the coast, and protecting your home from these elements is crucial. In particular, garages can be vulnerable areas during storms, but with the right preparations, you can keep your home safe and dry. Let’s explore some effective storm protection measures tailored for residents of the North Carolina coastline.
Reinforce and seal your garage door
The garage door is often the weakest point of entry during a storm. High winds can easily breach a standard garage door, allowing water and debris to enter your home. That’s not exactly what you want if you’re a North Carolina homeowner. With 39 tropical storms and hurricanes impacting the Tarheel State in 2022 and 2023, it’s a good idea to make sure every point of entry is secure. Reinforcing your garage door can significantly improve its ability to withstand strong winds and flying debris. That’s why any professional would recommend investing in specially crafted storm systems, including a strong, sealed garage door, designed to resist any storm debris or wind speed. When you schedule an inspection and estimate, make sure the experts inspect your garage for any gaps or cracks where water could seep through during a storm. Inquire whether you should seal these openings with weather-stripping or caulk to create a watertight barrier or invest in a whole new, stronger system. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and the garage door itself.
Keep things high and dry
Lots of people use their garage both for parking and extra storage space, of course. If your garage is prone to flooding, though, you’ll want to make sure any valuable items, electronics, or otherwise easily ruined items are stored high off the ground to prevent water damage. In some cases, it might be worth moving important papers or valuables inside for the duration of hurricane season. You can also use shelves, pallets, or storage containers to keep belongings safe from rising waters. For added protection against flooding, flood barriers or sandbags can keep the perimeter of your garage safe and dry. Of course, if you don’t want to worry about the hassle of moving stored items, installing a great garage door will give you the peace of mind without the nuisance of relocating or setting up sandbags.
Keep your drainage systems clear
Your drainage systems, such as gutters and downspouts, can only work if they’re clear of debris and clutter. Clogged gutters mean water overflowing into places it shouldn’t, leading to pools that damage your home’s foundation or seep into your garage. These once-a-year tasks can be so easy to forget about until it’s too late, though! Set a recurring task in your calendar to remind you about hiring a gutter cleaning service in late May. That way, by the time hurricane season is at its worst, you’ll be ready with clear gutters and downspouts.
Taking these proactive measures is crucial for anyone who wants to protect their garage — and home — from storms. The experts at Crawford Door Systems have been helping homeowners and businesses alike to protect their homes from the perils of storm season since 1957. If you’re a North Carolinian who wants to enjoy the beauty of coastal living while keeping your home safe and dry, reach out at 910-791-4389 to get a free estimate today or email us at customerservice@crawforddoorsystems.com to learn more.
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