Living in Florida, people are not new to the devastation hurricanes can bring into their lives. The requirements for hurricane-resistant construction are resolute. Here, we’ll discuss some of the major recommendations by Florida contractors about how to build a home that can face a storm’s wrath.
1. Strong Foundations
- Deep Pilings: Pilings bind the building to the ground as firmly as possible. Deep pilings resist the uplifting forces created by high winds
- Monolithic Slabs: Use monolithic slabs, which are poured as a single piece, to eliminate the occurrence of cracks which may lead to breaks in extreme conditions
2. Reinforced Wall
- Concrete Block: Use concrete block walls with steel reinforcement and poured concrete to improve structural integrity
- ICFs: IFC’s will give superb strength and energy efficiency. Moreover, they offer exceptionally high resistance against high wind and flying debris
3. Impact Resistance Windows And Doors
- Hurricane Windows: Design and install impact-resistant windows that endure both heavy winds and flying debris. These are designed to stay intact upon shattering
- Reinforced Doors: Use doors that are rated to withstand hurricane winds. Additionally, be sure to get your garage doors, which can be problematic, reinforced
4. Roofing Security
- Metal Roofs: A metal roofing system is recommended due to the simple reason of its strength and durability in the face of hurricane-force winds
- Hurricane Straps: Install hurricane straps and clips, as well as fasteners to fasten the roof to the walls.
5. Proper Ventilation
- Vented Soffits and Ridge Vents: Proper ventilation ensures pressure balancing and decreases the risk of roof damage
- Hurricane Vents: Consider hurricane vents with auto-close shutters during hurricane-force winds to seal against water intrusion
6. Storm Shutters
- Roll-Down Shutters: Activated on short notice, the window and door protection is very good
- Accordion Shutters: With easy closure, this is a solid and effective option as well
7. Elevated Structures
- Raised Foundations: In flood-prone areas, build on stilts or on a raised foundation so that the storm surges and flood waters do not reach the home
- Flood Vents: The foundation walls should be fitted with flood vents. These will allow an unobstructed path for water rather than pressure accumulation, causing potential structural damage
8. Landscape Considerations
- Wind-Resistant Landscaping: Plant trees and shrubs that are known to have a higher resistance to high winds. Place them strategically to block or at least minimize wind from directly hitting the home.
- Debris-Free Zones: The area around the home shall be kept free of loose objects that might become projectiles during a storm.
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided extensive commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands. Hire Varian Construction for your hurricane-resistant construction; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.