How to storm proof your home

When you first start the project to build a home, especially in Florida and South Florida you need to be sure that it will be built to withstand a storm. The area is prone to bad weather, so you want to ensure that you as well as your home are protected. Here in Florida, we are prone to high wind speeds and strong storms, so upgrading to impact-resistant windows and doors is particularly important for protection against hurricane-blown, wind-borne debris. Homes that are built using concrete often have a much greater ability to withstand strong wind and rain than those built with wood, brick, or paneling. Resilient walls that are fortified by concrete and include a double-panel system should be used throughout the home when possible. Given that we know a little about what may be needed as far as protecting your home during the stormy weather, let’s talk about why this is important and some ways to make sure all is taken care of. General contractors in Florida and South Florida are used to this when building, so be sure to hire one who has completed many. Let’s get started!

How most homes in Florida are built 

During severe thunderstorms or hurricanes, homes may be damaged or destroyed by high winds. Debris flying through the air can break windows and doors, allowing high winds inside the home. In extreme wind storms, the force of the wind alone can cause weak places in your home to fail. Homeowners are often surprised to hear that wind can cause damage to their homes. High winds can cause hazards to your property and surrounding areas – hazards such as fallen branches, uprooted trees, and torn-down power lines. If wind speeds are very high, even new, secure shingles can tear away. Many homes are built in Florida every year, and they are built-in ways that will withstand the worst of storms. Most of Florida’s residential exteriors are built using one of two structural methods. One method is engineered frame wood construction and the other method is concrete block construction or CMU construction (short for concrete masonry unit). The exterior walls are constructed with 2 x 4 or 2 x 6-dimensional lumber. There is a difference between hurricane-proof homes and regular homes, Hurricane-proof homes are designed to protect inhabitants from the wind, but nothing can counteract the power of water. That’s why the homes are located to avoid storm surge flooding.

When you meet with your general contractor you may start to learn that not many if any homes in Florida have basements, there is a reason for this, Florida has a large aquifer system that spans around 100,000 square miles and provides water for many large cities. The groundwater’s very close to the surface in most parts of Florida and Southern Georgia. Because of the high water table and proximity to the ocean, it is impossible to dig out for a basement. Also, many homes are built using blocks, Energy Efficient Due to concrete block’s thermal mass, a home constructed with concrete block holds heat longer in cool weather, and cool air inside for longer periods, even in the heat of a Florida summer. That means that as long as you live there, your home will retain its curb appeal and its value. If the hurricane’s speeds go above 157 mph, catastrophic damage can occur. The winds can flatten your entire house and trees and power poles will be destroyed. It is best as you may already know to have your home built to survive the harsh weather that comes with living in Florida.

What you need to have prepared in case of a Hurricane: 

1. Non-perishable food (enough to last at least 3 days)
2. Water (enough to last at least 3 days)
3. First-aid kit (include any prescription medication you may need)
4. Personal hygiene items and sanitation items.
5. Flashlights (have extra batteries on hand)
6. Battery operated radio (again, have extra batteries)

All in all, we have learned that the safest bet for your home will be to use concrete,  Concrete is probably the best material for a hurricane-proof house or any high-risk construction. Concrete is strong, durable, readily available, fire-resistant, and will last a very long time. Concrete homes can absolutely withstand hurricanes! Walls were built of 1-foot thick poured concrete,

Taylor Builders is located in Florida and they are more than experienced in building homes to withstand the weather elements. If you are looking for a general contractor to start building your dream home, contact them today!