How do you build a hurricane proof house?
Question:We just bought a lot near the intercoastal waterway in Wilmington NC. It will be built on pilings so what are the features we should invest in to make it very secure? NC has a rigorous building code. Any good reference works?
Answers:
Florida has a coastal code that is a good one, it requires that all living spaces be on what would normally be the second floor. Structural strapping to hold down the roof so it doesn't blow off, a high MPH design wind speed to ensure a strong structure. May be others too, I would consult a design professional to get the whole and straight scoop.
Not being funny, but I think you should move and cut out all of this bother. West Sussex, England is very nice.
i live in florida too we got the impact windows but we got them before hurricane season because they are expensive durnig hurricane season but the impact windows can take up to 120 pounds of pressure no shutters are needed
I just bought a new construction home in Houston and they have emphasized the importance of hurricane straps. They are curved metal pieces every few inches or so providing a more durable structure.
there are a variety of metal connectors for wood construction at your local hardware store. hurricane straps, foundation anchors ect. the key is putting them in the right location. a structural engineer will be the one you want to consult for this. you may have to beef up some of the areas where you put these connectors to insure there is good structural integrity. it may cost a bit, but in the long run you'll be glad you spent the extra money when your house is still standing.
Palm Harbor Homes has home designs for modular homes that can go on pilings. they build a lot in Florida. I have recently purchased a home in Hernando County Florida less than a mile from the coast. There are a lot of the Palm Harbor homes their being built there.You will need to check the wind rating on the different designs, and they really are not that expensive. The newer designs don't look like trailers.
I was in the Dominican Republic and stayed in a house that was made of solid concrete, masonry block filled with re-bar and concrete, the interior walls were the same, the roof was solid concrete. We went back after the hurricanes and the house was perfect, but it was built on the ground. this is the only truly hurricane proof house, but I have no idea on how it could be structurally supported.
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