At Deltec Homes, we think about hurricane resistance as a complete system. The roof, walls, openings and structural connections must work together to help transfer wind forces safely through the home. While an existing conventional home may not have been designed with that same integrated approach, strengthening its most vulnerable areas can still make a meaningful difference.

Homes designed from the ground up for high-wind conditions generally offer the strongest protection against hurricanes. But homeowners with existing homes can still take practical steps to reduce damage from wind, wind-driven rain and flooding.

Protect Windows and Doors

Windows, exterior doors and sliding glass doors are vulnerable to windborne debris.  Protect them with impact-rated products, permanent hurricane shutters, removable storm panels or properly installed plywood panels.

Large openings require special attention. Check that doors, frames, hinges and locks are properly secured—not just the glass or door panels themselves.

Reinforce the Garage Door

Because it is often the largest opening in a home, the garage door can become a major failure point during a hurricane. If the door fails, wind may enter the garage and place additional pressure on the walls and roof.

Have the door inspected to determine whether it is rated for your area’s required wind speed. Older doors may need an approved reinforcement system or replacement with a wind-rated model. 

Strengthen the Roof System

A resilient roof depends on more than shingles or metal panels. The roof covering, roof deck, framing and connections must all work together.

Have a qualified professional inspect:

• Roofing materials and flashing
• Roof decking
• Soffits and fascia
• Roof vents
• Roof-to-wall connections
• Hurricane straps or clips

When replacing a roof, ask about strengthening the roof deck attachment and installing a sealed roof deck to help limit water intrusion if the outer roofing material is damaged.

Secure Outdoor Objects

Patio furniture, grills, planters, garbage cans and children’s toys can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Move these objects indoors before a storm.

Trim weak or damaged branches well in advance of hurricane season, particularly those near the roof, windows or utility lines.

Reduce Water Damage

Hurricanes can introduce water through roof damage, wind-driven rain, overwhelmed drainage systems and flooding.

Before storm season:

• Clean gutters, downspouts and exterior drains.
• Repair damaged flashing, siding and sealant.
• Direct drainage away from the foundation.
• Elevate important equipment where flooding is a concern.
• Review whether a sump pump, backwater valve or other drainage improvement is appropriate.

Remember that standard homeowners insurance generally does not cover flooding caused by rising water or storm surge. Review your flood and wind coverage before a storm threatens. 

Create a Hurricane Plan

Structural improvements can reduce damage, but no home is hurricane-proof. Every household should also have an evacuation and emergency plan.

Know your evacuation zone, prepare supplies, protect important documents and identify where family members and pets will go if evacuation is required. Follow local emergency-management instructions rather than relying only on a hurricane’s category, which does not reflect every risk from rainfall, flooding and storm surge. 

Designing for Hurricane Resistance From the Beginning

Retrofitting can strengthen an existing home, but new construction allows hurricane resistance to be incorporated into the entire structure.

Deltec’s round homes are designed to help wind move around the building rather than concentrating pressure on broad exterior walls. Their radial roof and floor systems distribute loads throughout the structure, while engineered connections help create a continuous path from the roof to the foundation.

No home can eliminate the risks associated with a major hurricane. However, thoughtful engineering, quality construction and attention to every structural connection can help create a home that is better prepared for severe weather.