Do I Need A Flood Barrier For My Garage?

By Tony Hall

Have you ever suffered damage from floods? This may be an odd question for us Texas Panhandlers. Although Amarillo, Texas is usually a dry and arid place, it can flood. When it rains it pours, and the area has suffered from flooding over the years. Storms can bring about flash floods and road closures very quickly in this area. One way to minimize damage to your home, car and other contents of your garage is by installing a flood barrier.

What are garage flood barriers?

Modern flood barriers are an improvement of older flood control methods, which were cumbersome and did not provide enough protection. They are also not considered efficient preventive measures by insurance companies so they can drive flood insurance premiums up. These include flood protection methods such as sandbags.

Modern flood barriers, which are also known as flood panels and flood shields, are made to offer adequate protection against the damage that can be caused by floodwater inundation. A flood barrier are not difficult to install and they provide an effective, watertight seal for openings such as garage doors.

What type of flood barriers are available?

Different types of openings need different designs that offer maximum protection. One option is flood panels. This is a removable flood barrier system that can be used for single and double door openings. They are made up of panels that are made to suit the height of the opening and each panel has a rubber gasket gadget that keeps water out.

There is also the post and panel system. It is similar to standard floor panels with the difference that panels are mounted on vertical posts that are removable. The puddle panel is another way you can go. This is a type of panel that is designed to be a quick reaction system which can withstand low levels of flooding. It is quickly and easily installed and it works very well to keep water from getting into entryways like your garage door.

You can also go for a hinged flood gate. The difference between this flood barrier and others is that it is installed at the opening location permanently. They can be customized to fit single and double entry ways. The fact that they are permanent makes them unsuitable for use over the garage in your primary residence. You may however have them installed over a holiday home especially one in a flood prone area.

There is also the pedestrian flood door which is also known as the man door. These resemble and work like the standard pedestrian door only that it has been reinforced internally. This is a done with a sealing mechanism that is placed within the frame. When the door is closed, there seal keeps water out. This option would have to be custom made for your garage door.
You may also opt for a flood log. This is a modular system that is designed to stand up to high velocity water movement and impact. It works very well more so in areas where weather extremes like hurricanes are common.

How can I protect my garage from flooding?

It is best to bring in the experts when choosing a flood barrier for your garage door. They will advise you on what works with your door and they can undertake to custom make and install your flood barrier. 

Call on Willow Creek Overhead Door for professional and expert advice and installation of your garage door flood barrier. Owner Tony Hall has years of experience installing and repairing a variety of garage and overhead doors. He knows how Amarillo is subject to torrential downpours, and he can help protect your home or business from potential flood damage. Contact Willow Creek Overhead Door today for a quote.

---

Photo Credit: adwriter via Compfight cc