Wind Rating and Reinforcement on the South Plains

In most of the country wind rating is a coastal conversation. Here it is a plains one, and it applies to ordinary replacement work rather than only to new construction.

What a wind-rated door actually is

Heavier gauge sections, more and better-anchored track, reinforced end stiles, and struts running horizontally across the sections to stop them flexing. It is a construction specification rather than an accessory.

Retrofitting struts

On an existing door in sound condition, adding reinforcement struts is frequently possible and is the cheapest meaningful improvement available. It will not turn a light builder-grade door into a rated one, but it markedly reduces flex and the wear that follows from it.

When the door is already past it

If track has spread, roller stems are worn on one face and fixings have opened up the timber, reinforcement is treating a symptom. At that point the assembly needs assessing as a whole.

What to specify on a replacement

Ask about wind rating explicitly at order time. It cannot be added cheaply afterwards, and on a wide double or triple door in this metro it is the difference that determines how the door ages.

Why it matters beyond the door

If the door gives way in a high-wind event the building is pressurised from inside and that load transfers to the roof. The door is not the most valuable thing you are protecting when you specify it properly.

Free estimate — no charge for the visit

Tell us what the door is doing and we will tell you what it normally means in Lubbock. Every job is quoted in person and in writing before any work starts.

Call (806) 639-4811 Request a callback