Living in the Southeast can be a beautiful experience. However, it also comes with its share of risks, particularly the risk of living in an area impacted by hurricanes.
If you are constructing a new home in the Southeast, one of the primary considerations should be building it to be as hurricane-proof as possible. Doing this will require careful planning and specialized materials, and could end up costing a bit more than an ordinary build, but the peace of mind it will offer is well worth it.
Fortunately for those building in the Southeast, there are steps you can take to ensure your home is as hurricane-proof as possible. From heavy-duty windows and special roofing materials to reinforcing your walls and using hurricane straps, there are plenty of ways to protect your home.
Strategically Select Building Materials
One of the most important things you can do when constructing a hurricane-proof home is to select the right materials. Everything from the roof to the walls must be made from materials that can withstand strong winds, torrential rain, and other extreme weather. Metal roofing is the best option, as it is more resistant to wind damage than regular shingles. When it comes to walls, opt for brick or stone, as they are far more durable than wood.
Use Impermeable Glazing Materials
Your windows and doors need to use the same level of materials as the rest of your hurricane-proof structure. Ideally, you should opt for impact-resistant windows that are designed to withstand heavy winds and objects flying through the air. This type of window is created with a special kind of glass that is resistant to breaking and made to flex rather than shatter when impacted.
For your doors, you should look into impact-resistant materials such as metal, vinyl, or composite. You can also get custom-built hurricane-resistant doors, which may make your structure even stronger. Make sure you also use quality door locks.
When it comes to protecting your windows and doors, you should also consider using shutters or privacy screens. This will give you an extra line of defense against anything that tries to get into your building.
Reinforce Structural Elements
The frame of your home should be reinforced with hurricane straps, which are metal straps used to secure the frame of your home. They can help the structure withstand high winds and heavy rain.
Your walls should also be reinforced with materials such as wood, steel, or concrete. All materials should be inspected by an engineer to make sure they are strong enough to withstand hurricane-force winds.
Finally, in addition to the structural elements of your home, you should also prepare any outdoor items, such as furniture, grills, and potted plants. These are all items that can become deadly missiles in a hurricane and should be secured or brought indoors.
Plan Ahead to Prepare for a Hurricane
- Have an emergency kit with enough water and non-perishable food to last 3-7 days.
- Prepare any outdoor items and bring them indoors.
- Consider installing permanent storm shutters
- Make sure your family has a plan in place for how to stay safe.
Conclusion
A hurricane-proof home in the Southeast is entirely possible if you take the right precautions and plan ahead. By selecting the right materials, using impermeable glazing materials, reinforcing structural elements, and preparing in advance, you can ensure your home is well-prepared for anything Mother Nature throws its way.