How to Build a Hurricane Resistant Home [Info Graphic]

America is highly prone to hurricanes, having faced many devastating storms in recent years. In 2017, Hurricane Maria severely impacted Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, causing over 2,900 fatalities. The hurricane wiped out the island’s power supply and destroyed thousands of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, highlighting the urgent need for hurricane-resistant homes.

Furthermore, In 2018, Hurricane Michael invaded Florida, which was the strongest hurricane ever to hit Florida. Many other monstrous hurricanes knocked down the nation in the past. As the losses due demolitions are unbearable, and we need structures that can withstand this natural disaster. We can’t control nature and its behaviors, but we can be prepared to face adverse situations.

The concept of the hurricane-resistant building is introduced to avoid structural damages due to storms.

When a storm’s wind speed exceeds 74mph, it is called a hurricane. Your building should be tenacious enough to stand strong in hurricane winds.

Now, the question is how to make the structures hurricane resistant homes. The hurricane-proof buildings are designed to channel the heavy winds and reduce the pressure on the building. To know more about massive hurricanes, how to build a hurricane-resistant home, and more useful insights, view our knowledgeful infographic.

Source: vikingsteelstructures.com

Understanding Hurricanes

What is a Hurricane?

A large rotating storm with high-speed winds exceeding 74 mph.

How Hurricanes Occur?

They form over the ocean, starting as a tropical depression, developing into a tropical storm, and then becoming a hurricane.

Understanding Hurricane Dangers Before Building

Knowledge of hurricane risks is crucial for creating hurricane-resistant homes.

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

• Tropical Depression: < 38 mph winds
• Category 1 Hurricane: 74-95 mph
• Category 2 Hurricane: 96-110 mph
• Category 3 Hurricane: 111-129 mph
• Category 4 Hurricane: 130-156 mph
• Category 5 Hurricane: 157+ mph

Hurricanes of Category 3 and above are considered major due to their potential for significant damage.

5 of the Worst Hurricanes in US History

Galveston Hurricane of 1900

3,600 homes destroyed, 8,000 deaths, $21 million in damage.

Miami Hurricane of 1926

150 mph winds, $105 million in damage, 372 deaths.

Okeechobee Hurricane of 1928

407 deaths, $100 million in damage, 24,728 homes destroyed.

Hurricane Andrew of 1992

Category 5, $25.5 billion in damage, 65 deaths.

Hurricane Katrina of 2005

$108 billion in damage, 1,577 deaths.

Five Ways to Design a Hurricane-Proof Structure

Shape

Lower profile structures withstand wind better.
Two-story buildings fare better than high-rise buildings.

Framing

Strong framing, particularly with engineered steel, resists wind damage.
Steel provides a strong, lightweight, and durable frame.

Openings

Fewer openings in the structure reduce wind damage.
Smaller, outward-opening doors are more wind-resistant.

Windows & Doors

Invest in impact-resistant doors and windows.
Ensure all doors open outward for maximum protection.

Resilient Construction Materials

Use materials like concrete and steel for “built-to-last” homes.
Steel is particularly noted for its durability against high winds.

Why Choose Steel Buildings as Your Hurricane-Resistant Home?

Durability :

Built to withstand severe weather, including hurricanes.

Strength:

High-grade, commercial quality steel is resistant to rust and water damage.

Wind Resistance:

Can withstand wind forces up to 170 mph.