A hurricane-rated garage door is not one product but a set of claims you should be able to verify in writing: the wind and impact standard it was tested to, the certification for the zone it is installed in, and the hardware that comes with it.
1. The zone it is certified for
In South Florida, doors must meet the High Velocity Hurricane Zone requirements of the Florida Building Code. Miami-Dade publishes Notices of Acceptance (NOA) for products approved there. Ask for the NOA number and check that the door model and the glazing or panel configuration in the NOA match what you are being sold.
2. Wind load and impact rating
Two different tests: one for how much pressure the door takes, one for whether flying debris penetrates it. A door can pass the first and fail the second. Ask for both figures, on paper, for the exact size you are ordering: rating changes with door width.
3. The hardware, not just the door
Hurricane-rated panels on standard track and hinges are not a hurricane-rated door. Track gauge, reinforced hinges, jamb brackets and the anchor pattern into the wall all form part of the assembly that was tested.
4. Sealing
Wind pressure builds up inside a garage when the door leaks. Perimeter seals, a bottom astragal that actually touches the floor and a proper threshold are what stop water intrusion and pressure buildup.
What we do
We supply and install hurricane-certified doors that meet Miami-Dade and Florida Building Code requirements, in residential, commercial and industrial configurations, and we provide the certification paperwork with the door.
Same-day service across Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach, 100% workmanship guarantee, free estimate. Call (305) 885-8088.
Prices depend on size, model and hardware, so we quote after measuring. Estimates are free and we do not publish a price list. See our hurricane-rated doors page.