Once a major storm or hurricane hits, it is too late to protect a home and property. It is essential to plan ahead to limit the damage that the wind can do. While some preparations are relatively simple and inexpensive, others require a contractor for installation. Consider the characteristics of the house and the building codes required. Consult with local building authorities about building permit requirements.
Roof sheathing
During a windstorm, wind forces are carried from the roof to the exterior walls and the foundation. Homes can be damaged when wind forces are improperly transferred to the ground.
Roof sheathing (the boards or plywood nailed to the roof rafters or trusses) can fail during extremely high winds or a hurricane if not correctly installed. Examine the sheathing from inside the attic. If many of the nails have missed the rafters, it may be necessary to re-nail the sheathing. When putting on a new roof, ensure the sheathing complies with current recommended building practices.
End gables
During high winds, the side walls of the roof (end gables) can be damaged and collapse. Gable bracing often consists of 2x4s placed in an "X" pattern at both ends of the attic: from the top center of the end gable to the bottom of the brace of the fourth truss and from the bottom center of the end gable to the peak of the roof. Examine this construction inside the attic. Reinforce any gables as necessary.
Hurricane straps
In some areas, hurricane straps are required. Ask local authorities whether hurricane straps are needed for your home.
The common practice of toe-nailing the trusses or rafters often needs to be revised to hold a roof in place in high winds. Because of insulation, these clips or straps are usually very difficult to see from the attic. Hurricane straps (made out of galvanized metal) help keep the roof fastened to the walls during high winds. Remove the roof sheathing around the roof's perimeter to install hurricane straps and clips to reveal the top of the wall. It may be necessary to remove the soffit and exterior cladding to reveal the wall's top 12 to 18 inches. In addition, if the exterior cladding is a brick veneer, it may be necessary to remove small sections of brick as needed. Hurricane straps can be difficult to install; homeowners should consider consulting a contractor for this project.
Double entry doors
Double entry doors should be secured at the top and bottom during high winds or a hurricane forecast. The exterior walls, doors, and windows are the home's protective shell. If the shell is broken during a storm, high winds can enter the house and put pressure on the roof and walls, causing severe damage.
For each double door, at least one should be secured at the top of the door frame and the floor with sturdy sliding bolts. However, most bolts that come with double doors are not strong enough to withstand high winds. A local hardware store can help homeowners select the proper bolts. Some door manufacturers provide reinforcing bolt kits made specifically for the doors.
Garage doors
Garage doors on garages attached to homes are potentially the largest, weakest opening of a residential home's exterior during a hurricane. Garage doors should be adequately secured when high winds are forecast.
In situations of attached garages, if the garage door fails, winds can enter the home and blow out doors, windows, walls and the roof. Hurricane-resistant garage doors can usually withstand winds of up to 120 mph. They can be purchased from home improvement stores, but homeowners should note that these doors are expensive and may require a building permit for installation. When purchasing such a door, look for a sticker that gives the pressure and wind speed ratings.
Older doors need to be retrofitted. To do this:
Get vertical bracing (often sold in kits).
Reinforce the door at its weakest points, putting posts in the opening.
Attach U-belts to the top bracket above the garage door.
Brackets must be used to attach the U-belt to the door hinges. The metal brace should be bolted to the garage floor to be secured. Strong gauge tracks on either side of the door help keep the wind from pulling the door out of its track. Make sure fasteners are secure enough to hold the track in place.
Storm shutters
Installing storm shutters is one of the most effective ways to protect a home from high winds.
Purchase or make shutters for all exposed:
Windows
Glass surfaces
French doors
Sliding glass doors
Skylights
Many types of manufactured storm shutters are available made out of wood, aluminum or steel. During the forecast for a hurricane, if permanent shutters are not already in place, construct storm shutters with 5/8-inch thick exterior-grade plywood.
Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.fema.gov And National Hurricane Center: www.nhc.noaa.gov
