As hurricane season approaches in Martin County, it’s important for businesses to prepare themselves for the potential impact of severe weather. For businesses with overhead commercial doors, Guaranteed Garage Doors & Repair (GGDR) can help you in this preparation through our 31 Step Maintenance Plan. There are several important steps that should be taken to protect your facility and ensure a quick recovery in the event of a hurricane in Stuart, Florida.

1. 1. Have a Business Plan: The first step in preparing for hurricane season is to have a comprehensive business plan in place. This plan should include procedures for emergency response, communication with employees and customers, and strategies for minimizing damage and recovering quickly after the storm.

1. 1. Have Backup Power: One of the biggest challenges during a hurricane is power outages. Having backup power, such as a generator, is crucial to ensure that your business can continue to operate during and after the storm. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on refrigeration or other critical equipment such as overhead doors. When your overhead doors are wind-resistant and impact loaded, they can weigh a lot, during a hurricane the last thing you want is to be stressed over lifting a heavy door.
   2. Check Equipment: If you are new to a Martin County facility, it’s important to make sure that all equipment is up to date and in good working condition. This includes overhead commercial doors, which should be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. If your overhead door is starting to have issues ranging from stability, noise or corrosion you should call GGDR today to get in ASAP for a fix.
   3. Plan for Alternative Storage: In the event of a hurricane, it’s possible that your facility may sustain damage or be inaccessible for a period of time. It’s important to have a plan in place for alternative storage sites, such as a secondary facility or storage containers, to protect important equipment and inventory.
   4. Flood Insurance: Many Stuart, Florida businesses overlook the importance of flood insurance, assuming that it is covered by their standard insurance policy. However, flood insurance is typically a separate policy and is essential for protecting your business from water damage during a hurricane. Not to mention that having a wind loaded/ impact resistant overhead door often leads to lower insurance rates.
   5. Security Post Hurricane: After a hurricane, businesses may be vulnerable to theft or looting. It’s important to have security measures in place, such as surveillance cameras, to deter criminals and protect your facility. There are several overhead door operators that have automatic deadbolt lock mechanisms in place to prevent this.

1. Wind-Rated Doors: Wind-rated doors are designed to withstand high winds and debris during a hurricane. If your facility is in a hurricane-prone area like Stuart, Florida, it’s important to invest in wind-rated doors to protect against potential damage. Losing the overhead door often means damage to the building, roof and any of your client’s items, thus costing you more money.
2. Impact Resistant Doors: In addition to wind-rated doors, impact resistant doors are also important for protecting your Martin county facility during a hurricane. These doors are designed to withstand impact from flying debris, which can cause significant damage to traditional doors. They are durable, and offer superb protection against unwanted entry.

Overall, preparing for hurricane season requires a comprehensive approach that includes both emergency planning and investment in protective measures such as wind loaded and impact resistant doors. By taking these steps, businesses can minimize damage and ensure a quick recovery after the storm.

Guaranteed Garage Doors & Repair is licensed, bonded, and insured with 30+ years of experience in residential and commercial overhead door repair and installation. Our certified technicians are always up-to-date on the latest technologies and products to help you find the best door for your needs. Call us today to learn more about our quality workmanship, maintenance programs, and to receive a quote on your new door install or repair. Call 772.877.3877 for same day service within Stuart, Florida and Martin County. Better than best, GUARANTEED. Our certified, highly experienced technicians are standing by for your call.