Five Ways Contractors Are Building More Disaster-Resistant Homes

From add-ons like hurricane shutters to improved roof construction methods, builders are focusing more on protecting homes from natural disasters.

The old adage says that nobody can predict the weather, but one thing seems certain: based on the past several years, extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent. Recognizing the need for disaster mitigation, more states and municipalities are establishing guidelines for builders, contractors and homeowners for methods designed to protect structures from extreme weather conditions.

This just makes economic sense, according to many studies. The Louisiana State University Hurricane Center conducted a comparative analysis of Hurricane Katrina's economic impact on Mississippi, projecting a $3.1 billion savings if tougher building codes had been in place. To help build more storm-resistant homes, the Insurance Institute for Business and Home (IBHS) has created the FORTIFIED program to help contractors and homeowners strengthen their homes against hurricanes and high winds, wind-driven rain, earthquakes, hail, wildfires, flooding, and severe winter weather. Studies show every $1 spent on disaster mitigation saves $4 in community disaster recovery expenses.