If you’re building your first home, there are various things to consider. Pushing further than choosing the color of the siding and where to put the bathroom, you also need to discuss proper practices that make a safe home. One of those things you need to plan for is the weather. Your home is your shelter, and if you don’t plan for it to protect you through rain, wind, or snow, then you’ll run into numerous problems. If you want to keep your family safe, look at these tips for building a storm-resistant house.
Pay Attention to Safe Design Concepts
Your first step to a safe home is a safe design concept. If you design your home based off looks, then you’ll probably miss out on important stabilizing design needs. A storm-resistant home will have a design that has flood-resistant qualities and, most importantly, a continuous load path. A flood-resistant design will include elevated structures made of materials that can handle getting wet.
A continuous load path means that when a force (load) attacks a home, the load will move from the roof and walls to the foundation and into the ground. Rather than winds uprooting your home, a continuous load path will tie together your home’s structural elements. If you don’t include both of these features into your design, you’re asking for trouble.
Install a Storm-Resistant Roof
Another important aspect of a safe home is a roof that will protect your home for years to come, no matter the weather. Asphalt and concrete roofs don’t cut it anymore—you’ll need to invest in a metal roof that can withstand high winds and inclement weather. For example, winter storms are a big issue for a lot of homes and can really affect your roof. Your best choice is to install a metal roof that can handle hurricane-force winds, loads of snow and ice, and any other storm Mother Nature throws your way.
Invest in Impact-Resistant Windows & Doors
In that same vein, you want to ensure that any entrances or exits to the home can handle the force of storms. This means that you must invest in impact-resistant windows and doors. These windows are meant to resist wind, leakage, and other forces so that your home and its foundation stay safe and stable. If you know that you live in a hurricane- or tornado-prone area, then you should also invest in quality shutters and window and door covers.
Choose Resilient Materials
When it comes to your home’s actual building process, make sure that you’re choosing resilient materials. All your design plans will go to waste if you choose materials that buckle under water, wind, or pressure. Steel is a top pick for people looking for homes built-to-last. Think about it this way; if your materials stay soaked through after water hits them, then you need to choose something different. Not only will these sturdier materials help create a storm-resistant home, but it’ll also prevent mold and mildew growth.
A storm-resistant house is on the way—happy building!
