Paradise Exteriors understands the importance of protecting Florida homeowners’ homes against extreme weather, including hurricanes.
In Florida, hurricanes aren’t a matter of “if” but “when,” and for anyone living in the Sunshine State, creating a hurricane-proof home is more about protecting you and your loved ones as much as it is about comfort.
Every year, storms can bring extreme weather ranging from heat and humidity to strong winds, rain, and flying debris that can wreak havoc on homes.
This guide is designed to educate homeowners about the essential features they need to know to protect their homes and property properly.
For example, reinforced roofs with impact-resistant windows, generators, and flood protection for agriculture, which together act to provide added layers of safety and security.
Why Hurricane-Proofing Matters
Surrounded by warm waters, Florida is situated right in the middle of hurricane alley, the breeding ground for some of the most extreme and powerful storms that rapidly intensify in strength before making landfall.
Coastal and inland residents alike share in the threats of these weather patterns, such as:
- Winds that may exceed 150 mph
- Storm surges are pushing water and debris out into neighborhoods
- Flying debris that is dangerous and may cause extensive property damage
- Power outages and service disruptions that may last days or weeks
Again, it’s not a matter of “if’ but “when” for another hurricane to come, so investing in hurricane-resistant features helps protect families, improves home values, keeps insurance costs low, and minimizes any potentially expensive repairs after the storm subsides.
The Dangers of Not Hurricane-Proofing Your Home
Living in Florida, it’s not a matter of “if” a hurricane will occur, but rather “when” an extreme weather event will happen.
Some concerns about not hurricane-proofing your home can include:
- Higher insurance premiums, especially in higher-risk areas like coastal homes
- Dangerous situations during extreme weather events
- Expensive and time-consuming repair work
- Lengthy recovery time to repair and replace after the storm
Ultimately, consider whether the potential benefits are worth the upfront costs required to hurricane-proof your home and whether that’s a risk you’re willing to take.
Essential Features of Hurricane-Proof Homes in Florida
Listed below are the key features that have a significant, positive impact on protecting homes.
- Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors
Hurricane-force winds are strong enough to uproot trees, snap branches, and turn everyday items into dangerous flying debris.
One of the easiest ways a homeowner can protect their home is by installing impact-resistant windows and doors.
Benefits include:
- Designed for hurricane-force winds of upwards of 150 mph
- By keeping the wind out, it maintains the structural integrity of the home
- Protects against mold and water damage
- Home security is enhanced year-round
Pros:
- Insulated glass aids with home energy efficiency
- Increased security can help lower home insurance premiums
- Boost home appeal and increase home value
Cons:
- Costs more than standard windows
- Requires larger upfront costs
- The quality of installation techniques impacts effectiveness
Paradise Exteriors specializes in installing impact-resistant windows to provide long-term peace of mind.
Backed by a double lifetime warranty, homeowners in Florida are given even greater confidence in their safety and security.
- Reinforced Roofs
One of the most vulnerable parts of a home is the roof. Roofs that are reinforced prevent wind, water, and debris from destroying the house, even during hurricane-force winds.
Features of reinforced roofs include:
- Metal roofing
- Wind-rated shingles
- Hurricane straps/clips and roof-to-wall connections
- Secondary water barriers
Pros:
- Long-term durability
- Increases home value
- Reduces the risks associated with roof uplift from hurricane winds
Cons:
- Costly upgrades to roofing
- Code compliance requires professional knowledge and experience
- Storm Shutters
Storm shutters combined with impact-resistant windows provide an added layer of protection and security against hurricane-force winds.
Types of Shutters:
- Roll-down
- Accordion
- Colonial – also known as Bahama shutters
Pros:
- Affordable option that can be stand-alone or combined with impact-resistant windows for added safety
- Can be utilized and deployed rapidly
- Provides another layer of security from flying debris
Cons:
- Requires proper installation to be effective
- May change the exterior aesthetics
4. Flood Barriers and Elevated Foundations
Along the coast, storm surges and flooding can add a layer of safety concerns.
Flood barriers and elevated foundations are good suggestions to prevent costly water damage and provide an additional element of safety.
Features include:
- Flood vents to equalize and limit water pressure
- Raised or stilted homes in areas prone to flooding
- Sealed barriers and foundations
Pros:
- May aid in lowering flood insurance costs
- A layer of protection against water damage
Cons:
- Not applicable or necessary in all areas
- Expensive, especially retrofitting older homes
5. Power Generators for the Home
Power outages are a common byproduct of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes.
Having a backup power source, such as a generator, is crucial for both safety and comfort.
Pros:
- Provides energy to maintain essential systems like refrigeration, medical devices, and AC
- Allows for peace of mind during a crisis
- May increase home resale value
Cons:
- Upfront investment may be high to purchase, and fuel costs may be costly
- Regular maintenance is required even when not used
6. Reinforced Garage Doors
In addition to roofs, garage doors are one of the more significant entry points that can pose a safety concern due to extreme weather.
A compromised garage door can lead to significant or even catastrophic failure of a home’s structural integrity.
Pros:
- Added protection against wind, rain, and heat from compromising the home’s structure
- More affordable than other types of reinforcement
- An additional layer of everyday security
Cons:
- Limited styles as compared to traditional garage doors
- Often requires the entire replacement of the existing garage door
7. Preventive Landscaping
Storm protective landscaping can play a significant role in protecting your home and property during extreme weather events.
Best practices include:
- Native trees that are wind-resistant
- Use mulch instead of loose gravel, which can become a dangerous projectile
- Keep trees and branches away from the home
Pros:
- Reduced risk of flying debris
- Enhances the aesthetics of the home year-round
Cons:
- Requires constant upkeep and maintenance
- Although it helps reduce risks, it cannot eliminate them entirely
Additional Hurricane-Proofing Tips
- Before the storm, secure all outdoor furniture, barbeques, and anything that can become a projectile.
- Seal openings, such as vents and chimneys, to reduce or eliminate water intrusion.
- Review your home insurance policies to ensure there is adequate coverage.
- Have your home reinforced by professional installers like Paradise Exteriors.
Benefits vs. Costs: A Delicate Balance
Hurricane-proofing your home and loved ones requires some upfront costs but provides long-term security. Think of it more as a long-term investment that can prevent even more expensive repairs in the event of damage.
Pros to hurricane-proofing your home include:
- Added security and safety for your property and, more importantly, your family.
- Enhances the aesthetics of your home, boosting resale values.
- Reduces the time required for recovery after a storm.
Cons:
- The upfront costs may be expensive and significant
- Will require constant upkeep and maintenance, as well as potential upgrades
Hurricane Proofing: Building a Safer Home
In an area like Florida, where extreme weather events are common, hurricane-proofing your home isn’t an option; it’s a necessity.
From impact-resistant doors and windows, reinforced garage doors and roofing, to generators and landscaping, the combination of all these things can make a difference in protecting you and your home.
For homeowners seeking assistance in protecting their homes, Paradise Exteriors offers superior installation of impact-resistant windows and doors backed by industry-leading warranties.
With the right upgrades in place and taking an educated, proactive approach to hurricane-proofing your home, you can have the confidence that your home and your loved ones are prepared for any extreme weather that may arise. If you’re looking to upgrade or reinforce your home to enhance security and safety for your loved ones, contact Paradise Exteriors today to get a FREE consultation.
