When it comes to hurricane protection, commercial doors aren't the first thing that comes to mind. People tend to pay more attention to windows, roofs, and walls because these are the most vulnerable parts of a building during a storm. However, doors are equally important, if not more, because they not only protect the building but also the people inside it. As a business owner in a hurricane-prone area, investing in hurricane-rated commercial doors is a wise decision. In this blog post, we'll look at what hurricane-rated doors are, why they're important, and what types of doors are available.
What are Hurricane Rated Commercial Doors?
Hurricane Rated Commercial Doors are doors that have been tested to withstand the effects of hurricanes and other severe weather conditions. These doors are designed to resist high wind speeds, flying debris, and water infiltration. They are made of strong materials such as steel, aluminum, or fiberglass and are equipped with reinforced frames, hinges, locks, and seals. Hurricane-rated doors are subjected to rigorous scientific testing to ensure they meet or exceed the standards set by the International Building Code (IBC). When you see a door that bears the label "hurricane rated," it means that it has passed the tests and is certified to provide reliable protection in a storm.
Why are Hurricane-Rated Commercial Doors Important?
The importance of hurricane-rated commercial doors cannot be overstated. During a hurricane, strong winds can exert tremendous pressure on a building, leading to structural damage, roof uplift, and even complete collapse. The wind also carries debris, such as tree branches, roof tiles, and other objects that can shatter windows and break doors. A compromised door opens the way for water, wind, and debris to enter the building, causing further damage and putting occupants at risk. Hurricane-rated doors provide a first line of defense against wind, water, and debris, ensuring that the building stays intact and the occupants stay safe.
What Types of Hurricane-Rated Commercial Doors Are Available?
There are many types of hurricane-rated commercial doors available. The most common ones are:
Heavy-duty Swing Doors
These are the most traditional type of commercial doors and are suitable for most applications. They come in various sizes, shapes, and designs and are made of different materials. Heavy-duty swing doors are perfect for areas that require frequent access and egress, such as storefronts, hotels, hospitals, and warehouses.
Overhead Doors
These are doors that open vertically, like a garage door. Overhead doors are ideal for large openings such as loading docks, hangars, and fire stations. They come with reinforced tracks, springs, and motors to withstand high wind speeds and resist impact from debris.
Curtain Wall Systems
These are doors that are part of a complete glass and framing system that forms the entire building envelope. Curtain wall systems are used for high-rise buildings and provide superior protection against hurricanes, severe storms, and other environmental factors. They are made of glass, aluminum, and steel and come in a variety of colors and finishes.
Hurricane-rated commercial doors are essential for businesses in hurricane-prone areas. These doors offer reliable protection against wind, water, and debris and can prevent costly damage and loss of life. If you're a business owner, consider investing in hurricane-rated doors to ensure the safety and security of your building and the people inside it. With many types of doors to choose from, you can find the perfect one that meets your needs and budget. Don't wait until it's too late. Contact a reliable door contractor today like Horton Automatics and ask about their hurricane-rated door options. Stay safe!
Share9 February 2024
I liked everything about my newly-purchased home with the exception of the garage door. The old swing type door didn't work for me. It took too much time and effort to open, and the door was a little too heavy for some of the family members. That's when I decided to talk with a contractor. With his help, I chose a remote controlled rolling door. Once it was in place, it was easy to see how convenient this was for our family. There was no lifting and no getting out of the car in the rain to open the door. Since it came with a manual override mechanism when the power was out, it was perfect. If you are thinking about installing a new garage door, let's talk. I'll tell you what I learned along the way and why I chose an overhead door for my garage.
