Hurricanes are notorious for leaving destruction in its wake. Especially when it can level neighbourhoods that can take months, if not, years to clean up. If you want to build a home that can withstand powerful hurricanes, you’ll find out how to do it in four ways.

Your home will be filled with cherished memories. It can be wiped out in a blink of an eye if you’re not prepared. However, you can build one that can withstand one of nature’s deadliest types of storms. Let’s take a look now at what you need to do step-by-step.

Know the building code in your area

Before constructing a home, you’ll want to know what the building codes are. A hurricane damage lawyer can be someone you can talk to. They are familiar with the codes and construction laws in your area.

You will understand what is allowable and what isn’t for your construction project. So it may be a good idea to understand the building codes in your local area and your state. It will make it easier to choose the materials to build your home.

Use impact resistant materials

Most of the building materials you’ll need should be impact resistant. These include but are not limited to storm resistant windows (also known as hurricane shutters). They also include synthetic window shades, and pull-down PVC shutters.

You’ll want to build a framing system using two-by-six studs. You will need structural panel sheathing and wallboards that are meshed and high in density. If you need to build a garage, find a door that will be strong enough to sustain wind speeds up to 180 mph.

A Category 5 hurricane will have sustained winds of 157 mph or greater. So you can build a house that can sustain impact from even the toughest of hurricanes. You can find a garage door that will handle it as well.

Make sure it stays dry

Wind is not the only thing to worry about. Storm surge and subsequent flooding will also play a role as well. You’ll want to include materials such as a house wrap, rainscreen, waterproof membranes, and sealants to keep water from seeping into your home.

In the event of leaks, you’ll want to make sure your home includes materials that are resistant to mould and mildew. Water damage can lead to its growth and can lead to health problems for your household. Worst of all, it can lead to structural damage (especially mould).

Extreme flooding of your home can be protected. Your roof may even be ripped off during a major hurricane. For this reason, you’ll want to include a seal that includes a water and ice shield that you can install underneath.

Know the costs

The cost of building a hurricane-resistant home will depend on several factors including the location, the building materials being used, and more. On average, it may cost you anywhere from $200 to $325 per square foot.

Building materials alone will cost you somewhere in the neighbourhood of $25,000 to $50,000. You may also find that some locations such as Mississippi will cost more to build an 1800 square foot home compared to one in Florida.

Final Thoughts

If you are considering the idea of building a hurricane-resistant home, these are four ways to follow. Finding the best materials to prevent catastrophic damage from happening can be a challenge. But it will be worth it since you want to keep your home standing even after a Category 5 hurricane.

No home in a hurricane zone should ever have to sustain so much damage. It should be a thing of the past. Make your home hurricane resistant so it can stay standing, even in the path of nature’s worst.