With hurricane season upon us, many homeowners are inquiring how they can hurricane-proof their homes. Today we’ve gathered some of the best ideas to ensure your home can withstand the high winds and rain as best as possible.
Hurricanes do most damage through entry points in the home. Windows, doors, garages and roofs are focal points of weakness. Adding strong, high impact elements allows these entry points to withstand pressure. Below are some ways to keep your home safe and protected.
- Metal Roof
Metal roofs can stand up to wind 140 miles per hour and are statistically known to be the most durable in a hurricane. However, when installing a metal roof you’ll need to check that it meets all state and local building codes.
- Windows Protection: Impact Windows
Windows can cause wind and rain to enter the home, even causing interior pressure that then damages the roof. Adding high impact windows throughout the home creates a solid barrier against storms. Impact windows are made with shatter-proof glass that keeps flying objects, intense wind and rain from entering.
- Window Protection – Shutters
Shutters are another option for window protection. They cost less than installing impact windows, and are made to withstand up to a category 5 hurricanes. They are installed on the exterior of the home. Shutters come in various types, such as roll down, screens and panels to best fit your home design.
- Garage Door Protection – Heavy Impact
The garage is the largest and most vulnerable part of a home, and can be the largest entry point of wind damage without proper protection. There are various options for protecting your garage. The most costly option is a hurricane-proof garage door. These heavy duty doors are designed with a minimum one layer of steel. Some models have additional layers of aluminum, insulation and wood paneling.
- Garage Door Protection – Removable Panels
A more affordable option to protect garage doors are removable panels. These panels are made of aluminum and galvanized steel and are mounted to the garage door.
- Fiberglass Entry Door
While wood doors can be a vulnerable entry spot for water and flooding, replacing them with fiberglass creates a solid wall able to withstand intense pressure. Fiberglass is the standard material for hurricane-proof doors and can even be made to look like wood.
When adding hurricane-proof elements to your home, always hire a licensed contractor who is obtaining the proper permits. Many cities and counties require permits before installing these home additions, and doing so will avoid risking fines or improper work.
These changes are just a few ways you can ensure the safety and integrity of your home during a hurricane.