Homes on the waterfront can be hurricane-ready with Shore-Line Construction.
The east coast is known for its hurricane season, and this year, it’s from June-November. It can be difficult to predict the severity of storms in coming months, so it is best to be prepared, especially if you live on the water. Even on the Chesapeake Bay, storms can get fierce and flood people’s homes. If you are planning on building a custom waterfront house, check out these top features for a hurricane-proof home.
Hurricane-Proof Roof Design
A hurricane-proof home takes all the structural elements of a house into account. In a severe, high-wind storm, the roof is the first component to suffer damage. In some cases, it will fly right off. Considering both heavy rainfall and high winds, one has two main options for roof design: gable and hip. A gable roof, which looks similar to a tent, allows water to fall off more quickly, while a hip roof, which is closer to a pyramid, is the most wind-resistant. Including eaves helps drive the water away from the house.
Hurricane-Proof Walls & Windows
As with any residential building, the construction of the walls must fulfill local building codes in order to best maintain structural integrity. A hurricane-proof wall system emphasizes stiffness and soundness so that it can withstand the sheer force of hurricane winds. Windows should be recessed to direct water away from them, and storm shutters can be helpful features in such times.
Proper Drainage System & Foundation
In a hurricane-proof home, one can consider building more than one drainage system. A regular system with gutters and downspouts can help direct water off the roof, but a footing drain can ensure it stays away from the foundation even more.
As for the foundation itself, one should tie the house down to it either temporarily or permanently. Concerning wind, the goal is to create a continuous load path that drives the wind down the roof, down the walls, and into the ground.
Moisture-Resistant Building Materials
Along with a strong design comes moisture-resistant building materials. Waterproof membranes, house wraps, and more will also assist in keeping the house protected from heavy rains. For more information, contact Shore-Line Construction!
BUILD YOUR WATERFRONT DREAM HOME WITH SHORE-LINE CONSTRUCTION!
At Shore-Line Construction, we know that your home is a reflection of you. That’s why we strive to make each home we build as beautiful as the family who will live there. We work with each of our clients to design a home that fits their needs. The end result is a durable, energy-efficient custom home that the family will enjoy for generations to come. Shore-Line Construction has been serving our customers for over 25 years, and we look forward to the opportunity to help you!
If you’re interested in learning more about what Shore-Line Construction can do for you, check out our website or give us a call at 410-574-6623. Keep up with all of the latest news by following our blog and social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Houzz!
