In Case You Missed It: Florida Building Code Improvements to Better Withstand Hurricanes Under Consideration

As reported by the News Service of Florida, the Florida Building Commission is considering updates to the statewide building code that would enable buildings to better withstand the damaging winds and water intrusion associated with hurricanes. Sealing rooftop decks to prevent water intrusion and stronger wind resistance requirements for vinyl siding are under discussion.

Not currently up for consideration is strengthening the wind resistance requirements for buildings in the Florida Panhandle, where it is currently far less stringent than other parts of the state, as evidenced by the destruction caused last year by Hurricane Michael’s 160+ mph winds.

As recovery in the Panhandle continues, those rebuilding homes and businesses should consider building beyond code, which is the bare minimum required to make a structure safe. Resilient design, construction and materials will increase the likelihood that new homes and buildings will fair far better in future storms. There are many low-cost measures, such as hurricane ties and windstorm plywood, that can strengthen homes and businesses against the impacts of future storms.

Read the full article here.

https://www.news4jax.com/news/florida/building-improvements-eyed-to-withstand-hurricanes