This past week marked the official start to the 2021 Hurricane Season, which is expected to last from June 1st to November 30th. According to leading storm resource Tropical Storm Risk, the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season is expected to bring eighteen named storms, nine hurricanes, and four major hurricanes within the 3+ category. This report shows a 30-35% increase in storm activity above the long-range norm, meaning homeowners must take additional precautions to fortify their homes this hurricane season. For over 12 years, Miami-based construction company Stambul has helped build hundreds of commercial and residential properties throughout the state of Florida and possesses an in-depth understanding of storm-proofing properties within hurricane zones. To help east coast residents better protect their homes this hurricane season, Stambul owners Daniel Pena Giraldi and Luis Rojas of Miami, Florida, will discuss essential hurricane-proofing renovation projects and the importance of protecting a home’s point of entries.
Install a Metal Roof
While asphalt shingles remain one of the most popular roofing materials within the United States, this material was not designed to withstand a hurricane’s torrential downpours and high wind speeds. The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of the home and can be easily lifted off or torn during an intense storm. This can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage repairs and even permanently damage the home’s structural integrity. To decrease their risk of hurricane damage, homes within tropic storm and hurricane zones are encouraged to install a metal roof as soon as possible. According to popular manufacturer American Building Components, metal roofing is one of the most popular wind-resistant roofing options available and can withstand winds up to 140-mph. On average, metal roofs can last 50 years, almost twice the length of the traditional asphalt shingle roofs.
Install Impact Windows
When a hurricane touches down on land, it blows large amounts of water and debris at speeds up to 130 mph. The velocity of the debris and water can cause severe damage to the outer portions of a home. Once one window has been broken by the flying debris, this allows wind to enter the home, increasing the interior pressure often causing additional windows to be blown out. While many Americans believe that the best way to prepare a home’s windows for a storm or hurricane is to install storm shutters, this is not the most efficient way of protecting glass. In recent years, impact glass has grown in popularity thanks to its durability during tropical storms and hurricanes. Within the state of Florida, impact windows have become the standard for future homeowners as they are designed to withstand heavy rain, hurricane-force winds, and hail. Impact windows are made of two panes of glass that are bonded together using a strong interlayer that includes airspace. Next, the third pane of glass is added for insulation with another airspace used to reduce heat transfer and build wind resistance.
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Install Fiberglass Doors
Similar to a home’s windows, doors can be a point of entry for a storm if not properly fortified and made of appropriate materials. When blown at incredible speeds, it is not uncommon for a piece of debris to blow through the average front door, allowing further debris and water to enter the home. To prevent flooding and potential structural damage, homeowners must fortify their front door or installing deadbolts and purchasing a fiberglass door. Fiberglass doors are the most popular hurricane-proof doors thanks to their tough exterior and ability to withstand strong wind forces. Additionally, fiberglass doors are energy-efficient and affordable compared to other options on the market.
Prepare Your Yard
One of the most crucial steps homeowners can take to protect their homes during hurricane season is to prep their yard. Landscaping and yard renovations can be the most effective way to prevent flooding within the home and protect the exterior siding from damage. Firstly, homeowners are encouraged to clear all gutters around the home of leaves to help rainwater drain more easily off the roof. Next, it is essential that homeowners prune trees and bushes to prevent further debris from damaging the home’s exterior. An old or diseased tree near the home can also be a major hazard during hurricane season as it may fall on the home’s roof or siding and create a point of entry for the storm. Homeowners must survey their landscape for any potential hazards and reach out to arborists and landscaping professionals before or during the early portions of hurricane season.
Install a Metal Garage Door
The majority of garage doors are made out of lightweight materials which are susceptible to high winds and flooding. According to major news sources, the majority of residential hurricane damage starts with wind entry through garage doors. If a garage door is damaged during a hurricane, the inside of the garage and all valuables such as cars, motorcycles, lawnmowers, and other stored items will likely be ruined by water and debris.
This is so common that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) stated that the loss of garage doors is one of the most common factors that contribute to hurricane storm damage in homes. Experts recommend buying a steel hurricane-proof garage door and reinforcement posts to ensure your garage door can withstand hurricane-force winds for those who live in a hurricane zone. Garage door reinforcement posts cannot be installed during typical garage use but can be installed before a storm approaches.
