Hurricane Garage Door Myths for Naples Homeowners: What’s True and What’s Not

Why Garage Door Safety Matters in Southwest Florida

Living in Naples, FL, means enjoying beautiful coastal views and warm weather, but it also means preparing for hurricane season. Your garage door is one of the largest openings in your home, and if it fails during a storm, the consequences can be catastrophic. Yet, despite the risks, misinformation still circulates around hurricane safety, especially when it comes to garage doors.

At On Track Doors, we hear these myths all the time. That’s why we’re setting the record straight. If you want real protection, you need real facts.

Myth: Any Garage Door Is Good Enough for Hurricanes

Fact: Only hurricane-rated garage doors offer meaningful protection during a storm.

Standard or outdated garage doors are not built to withstand the powerful wind forces that come with a hurricane. In fact, Florida building codes require wind-resistant or impact-rated garage doors in many parts of the state, including coastal cities like Naples. These doors are designed and tested to withstand extreme pressure and impact from debris. 

Myth: Cracking the Garage Door Open During a Storm Reduces Pressure

Fact: Opening the door, even slightly, increases internal pressure and can lead to catastrophic structural failure.

This myth continues to be prevalent because it sounds logical. But it’s dangerously wrong. The idea is that opening the garage allows air pressure to “equalize,” but in reality, it gives hurricane-force winds a way inside. This pressurization can blow out windows and even lift your roof. The only safe solution is a storm-ready, hurricane-rated door that stays closed, secure, and reinforced from the outside.

Myth: I Only Need to Protect Doors Facing the Ocean or Prevailing Wind

Fact: Hurricanes are unpredictable. Every entry point needs protection.

It’s a mistake to think wind only comes from one direction. Storms shift constantly, especially near the coast. One minute, your garage door may be on the “protected” side of the house; the next, it’s taking a direct hit. Every garage door, regardless of orientation, should meet hurricane safety standards.

Myth: Taping or Boarding Up the Garage Door Helps

Fact: Tape doesn’t strengthen anything, and boards aren’t enough.

While it might feel proactive, taping your garage door is purely cosmetic. It does nothing to improve its structural integrity. Boarding up may slow down some debris, but it won’t stop the wind pressure from bending or ripping the door off its tracks. If you’re relying on plywood over a hurricane-rated garage door, you’re taking a gamble with your home.

Myth: Reinforcing My Old Garage Door with Braces or Add-ons Is Just as Good as Replacing It

Fact: Temporary reinforcements may not meet code and fall short of modern engineering.

Braces and bolt-on reinforcements were a common workaround years ago, but they’re no longer enough. Today’s hurricane-rated garage doors are engineered as complete systems, with reinforced frames, impact-resistant panels, and heavy-duty tracks that work together to provide reliable protection. These modern doors are more likely to meet code, qualify for insurance benefits, and, most importantly, protect your home during a real storm.

Myth: If My Garage Door Fails During a Hurricane, Only the Garage Is at Risk

Fact: A failed garage door can cause widespread damage to your entire home.

When your garage door gives way during a storm, the sudden pressure inside your home can break windows, damage interior walls, and even lift the roof. It’s not just the garage that’s at risk—it’s your whole structure. That’s why your garage door should be a top priority in your hurricane prep plan.

How Naples Homeowners Should Prepare Their Garages for Hurricane Season

If you’re serious about protecting your home this hurricane season, here’s what we recommend:

• Install a hurricane-rated garage door that meets or exceeds Florida building code requirements.

• Select a reputable local company with expertise in Southwest Florida's weather conditions and local permitting regulations.

• Schedule regular inspections to ensure your door, tracks, and opener are in proper working order.

• Don’t wait until a storm is approaching. Get your door updated before hurricane season peaks.

Stay Hurricane-Ready with On Track Doors

At On Track Doors, we install code-compliant, hurricane-rated garage doors built for Southwest Florida homes. Our team understands the unique challenges of coastal Florida, from salt corrosion to wind load requirements, and we’re here to help you stay safe without the stress.

Plus, with same-day service and no service call fees, we make the process easy, fast, and affordable. Contact On Track Doors today to schedule a free estimate and make sure your garage door is ready for whatever this hurricane season throws your way.