Hurricane Mitigation

In Florida, after Hurricane Andrew hit Miami in 1992, the building codes were updated to reflect what we had learned from this disaster. The engineering of all buildings was increased to help the whole building stay connected to the ground during high winds. Essentially, we have learned how to tie down an open umbrella in a windy rainstorm.

In your home, this meant the introduction of many metal straps and ties which are later hidden in your walls, ceiling, and floor. Roofs especially were changed by adding more nails and screws to keep them from flying away. Doors and windows are either made with impact-resistant glass or required to have coverings to keep them from being broken and letting in all the rain. When FEMA conducts surveys of the damage after hurricanes, they found that even the smallest hole in a building can let in enough rain to damage the contents. Therefore, you should recognize that roof vents, soffits or eave vents, gable vents, skylights, and even dryer and bathroom exhaust fan vents can let in wind-driven rain.

Remember, knowing is half the battle. These resources can help you "fix" these problems.

Flood and Fire Protection

According to FEMA, floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states.

If you are required to have flood insurance, there are special rules which come into effect when you remodel. If you live in other areas that could flood, remodeling is a great time to check out different strategies to minimize the damage to your home. For example, raising your first floor so it won't flood, raising your outside A/C unit above the ground, or installing flood walls around your property.

Per FEMA, the threat of wildland fires for people living near wildland areas or using recreational facilities in wilderness areas is real. Dry conditions at various times of the year and in various parts of the United States greatly increase the potential for wildland fires.

Simple remodeling tips include using materials that won't catch on fire, and figuring out which plants are potential hazards during fire conditions. Did you know that highly flammable plants shouldn't be closer than 30 feet from your home? And building materials that could burn include vinyl or wood.