Protecting Your Property vs Wind, Storm Surge & Flooding

Hurricane season happens from June 1st to November 30th every single year. Hurricanes have the potential to cause serious damage to your property via intense wind, storm surge, and flooding. Hurricanes are not going away any time soon. In fact, there are some who feel they have been and will continue to worsen and occur more frequently. So the question becomes how can you protect your property and loved ones vs the wind, storm surge, and flooding caused by hurricanes? Keep reading because that is what we will cover in this comprehensive guide to hurricane protection. We cover a wide range of products that can protect your property vs hurricanes, including hurricane shutters, flood barriers, and more.

Here is what we cover in this article:

Hurricane Wind Protection For Homes

Hurricanes bring intense winds that can reach 180+ MPH. These winds alone have the potential to break standard glass windows and doors. In addition, hurricane winds pick up debris and turn it into projectiles, which also can break vulnerable glass openings. If your home is exposed due to a broken opening it has the potential to lead to much more significant damage. This can include severe water damage as well your home becoming pressurized, which can lead to structural and/or roof damage.

Because of this it is critical to properly protect your home’s windows and doors from breaking in a hurricane. There are a few ways to accomplish this. These options are discussed below.

Install Impact Windows and Doors vs Regular Glass

Standard glass is no match for hurricane winds and flying debris. Impact windows and doors are made with impact glass. That means these products are capable of withstanding hurricanes without the need for hurricane shutters.

If desired, you can replace all of your glass windows and doors with impact windows and doors. They are available as:

• Impact windows
• Impact entry doors
• Impact patio doors
• Impact sliding glass doors

Explore impact windows and doors in Southwest Florida

Protect Your Existing Windows and Doors with Hurricane Shutters

If you have no desire to replace your windows and doors then you can protect your existing ones with hurricane shutters instead. Impact resistant hurricane shutters are retrofit over your existing windows and doors.

Hurricane shutters act as an impact resistant barrier between your property’s glass windows and hurricane wind and wind borne projectiles. Many storm shutters can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane. And Hurricane shutters cost less than impact windows if budget is a concern. 

There is a wide range of hurricane shutter styles to meet your needs and preferences. These shutter styles include both permanent and non-permanent options, which are listed below.

Permanent Hurricane Shutter Styles

• Rolling Shutters
• Accordion Shutters
• Bahama Shutters
• Colonial Shutters

Learn more about Permanent Hurricane Shutters

Non-Permanent Hurricane Shutters

• Storm Panels
• Hurricane Fabric Panels

Protect Your Garage Doors

Garage doors are extremely vulnerable to damage if not protected. Wind gusts and flying debris can cause damage to panels, loosen the door from the track or even completely blow out the door from the track.

If you garage door is compromised it may result in additional damage. An exposed garage can lead damaged items and vehicles, water intrusion, and even your property becoming pressurized.

You can protect your garage door by one of two ways:

• Replace it with an impact garage door
• Retrofit your existing garage door with a bracing system

Flood Barriers for Homes: Exploring the Best Options, Products, and Pros and Cons

Flood barriers are becoming more and more essential in Florida. With tropical storms, hurricanes, and rising sea levels, it’s time to consider protecting your home from water damage.

Flood barriers are a way to protect your property without changing its elevation. And these products can, potentially save you thousands of dollars in water damage repairs.

Below we break down the types, advantages, disadvantages, and insider tips to keep your home or business in FL stay better protected from storm surge and flooding.  

Why Flood Barriers are Becoming Essential for Florida Home Protection

Did you know that only one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage to your home? 

Florida’s unique geography makes it vulnerable to flooding. The extensive coastline is mainly low-lying, putting homes at risk during hurricanes and severe storms. And even if your property is inland, the state’s heavy rainfall can lead to unexpected flash floods. Storm surge also has the potential to travel tens of miles inland. This of course means that storm surge related flooding is not exclusive to coastal properties.

Flood barriers can prevent water from entering your property. They help protect your foundation, walls, and belongings from potential expensive damage. A well-chosen flood barrier may also impact your insurance costs as well. Some insurers offer lower rates for homes that invest in flood prevention as a precaution. With a solid flood barrier system, you can help protect your property while enhancing its value, easing the financial burden of insuring a home in a flood zone. 

Below are some different types of flood barriers you can equip your property with.

Quick-Deploy Flood Barriers: Ideal for Emergency Situations 

Quick-deploy flood barriers are designed to be set up fast. This makes them ideal for emergencies when a storm or flash flood is imminent. It also makes them easy for homeowners and business owners to set them up without major effort. Quick-deploy flood barriers are lightweight, portable, and require minimal installation (typically). All of this makes them perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to a permanent floor barrier. 

Types of quick-deploy flood barriers:

Below are some common types of quick deploy, non-permanent flood barriers.

1. Water-activated dams fill up when they come into contact with water, creating an instant barrier. These water-activated dams are lightweight, compact before activation, and reusable. And, where traditional sandbags are heavy and messy, water-activated sandbags are easier to set up and clean up. 
2. Inflatable flood barriers (bladders) are another quick-deployment option. These barriers quickly inflate and can be placed around your property’s access points or even around the perimeter of your property. They provide a solid blockage against rising water and are fairly easy to move or set up. 
3. Foam-filled flood blocks are easily installed, expand and solidify in place on contact with water. When dry they are lightweight for simple movement. When in contact with floodwater, they become sturdy, temporary blocks against rising water levels. 
4. Plastic flood barricades (flood walls) are another type of non-permanent flood barrier that lock together to form a barrier against flood water. These are typically interlocking, L shaped barriers that block or divert water away from structures. There are also self-opening flood wall varieties that will open when water fills them.

Pros and Cons of Quick Deploy Flood Barriers

• Pro: These flood barrier options are easier and faster to deploy, require less storage space, and are portable and reusable for various uses. They can be purchased, stored, and deployed by both homeowners and business owners.
• Con: These flood barriers are less durable than permanent options, require manual setup each time, and are limited to certain flood heights and water pressures.

Permanent Flood Barrier Solutions for Long-Term Protection 

For those looking for more “set-it-and-forget-it” solutions, permanent flood barriers are worth considering. These flood protection products require upfront installation (by professionals) but provide consistent protection without requiring rapid deployment in emergencies. 

Permanent Flood Barrier Options Include: 

1. Flood Doors and Flood Windows: These are custom-built doors and windows, often sealed with reinforced frames and gaskets to be water-resistant. 
2. Permanent Flood Walls. Constructed from concrete or metal, flood walls blend with your home’s natural architecture and create a permanent barrier around vulnerable areas. 
3. Automatic Flood Gates. These are mechanical gates that rise when water levels increase. Though pricey, they’re practical and operate without manual input once installed. 

Pros and Cons of Permanent Flood Barriers

• Pro: These permanent flood barriers provide consistent protection without manual setup, offer durable and reliable protection during heavy floods, and can increase a Florida property’s value. 
• Con: These permanent flood barriers have high upfront costs (especially with professional installation), have limited mobility, and may compromise some property aesthetics. 

DIY vs. Professional Floor Barrier Installation: What to Consider

For some types of flood barriers, especially quick-deploy ones DIY installation can be quick and inexpensive. Many quick-deploy barriers are lightweight and require a straightforward setup, making them easier to DIY. However, professional installation is a must if you’re looking into more complex systems or permanent options like flood walls, flood doors, or automatic gates. Professional installation ensures everything is sealed and secured, providing peace of mind while keeping floodwaters from damaging your home. 

• DIY Installation: Best for minor, temporary barriers that don’t require structural-related work or complex set-up. 
• Professional Installation: Recommended for permanent flood barriers, more complex systems, and barriers that cover multiple access points. 

Cost Comparison: Finding a Flood Barrier for Your Budget 

The cost of flood barriers varies significantly based on brand, type, and many other factors. Here’s a rough breakdown: 

• Water-Activated Sandbags: Around $2 to $10 per bag, depending on brand and size. 
• Inflatable Flood Barriers: $100 to $500, depending on coverage area. 
• Foam-Filled Flood Blocks: Approximately $25 to $100 per unit, but can go up significantly depending on complexity and size. 
• Flood Doors and Windows: $1,500 to $5,000 each. 
• Flood Walls: $10,000 and up, depending on length and height. Varies widely.
• Automatic Flood Gates: $10,000 to $50,000, depending on design and automation level. 

While more expensive solutions may seem excessive, consider potential savings in flood repairs and reduced hassles of having your home ruined. Investing in a good flood barrier can prevent greater expenses and life-shifting hassles after a catastrophe. 

Maintenance Tips to Keep Flood Barriers Effective 

• Inspect for Wear and Tear. Check seals, hinges, and any moving parts for permanent flood barriers. Quick-deploy barriers should be checked for damage, such as holes and missing materials after each use. 
• Clean After Use. Floodwater carries debris, which can damage barriers and make them unsanitary. Clean barriers to ensure no lingering residue weakens the structure or causes health issues. 
• Store Properly. Quick-deploy barriers should be stored in dry, easily accessible places to maintain usability. If they are a system, organize them so they are easier to set up (similar to storm panels).
• Schedule Regular Testing. Test barriers like automatic gates periodically (especially before and throughout hurricane season) to ensure they deploy correctly in case of floods. 

Choosing the Right Flood Barrier for Climate and Area

For Florida homeowners, the proper flood barrier depends heavily on your property’s location and risk of flooding. A permanent flood barrier may offer more security and peace of mind if you’re in a high-risk zone. Or maybe elevating your home is the best choice if warranted. In moderate-risk areas, a quick-deploy option may be sufficient.

It is important to take the time to evaluate flood risks and seasonal weather patterns to choose a barrier that aligns with your property’s specific needs. 

In the meantime, bolster hurricane and storm protection with hurricane shutters for your Florida home. When you are ready to start your project contact Eurex Shutters for more information! 

Or call (239) 369-8600 for immediate service.