Weather Any Storm: The Power of Hurricane-Rated Steel Buildings
The first concern for many homeowners in Florida is how their homes and buildings will hold up during hurricane season, which occurs every year from June 1 to November 30. And there’s good reason for this concern. Each year, hurricanes cause thousands, if not millions, of dollars in damage to homes and businesses alike.
But what if we told you there was a way to protect your buildings and minimize damage costs?
The solution? Hurricane-rated steel buildings. These structures are designed to withstand whatever the Florida weather brings. Discover the benefits of hurricane-rated building materials and how you can get started on protecting your home this hurricane season.
What Is a Hurricane-Rated Steel Building?
Hurricane-rated material is more than just a buzzword people throw around. It means that the material in question has been rated to withstand winds based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. So, for example, if it’s been hurricane-rated up to category 3 hurricanes, it should be able to withstand winds within the 111–129 MPH range.
A hurricane-rated steel building is specifically a steel structure that has been tested and proven to withstand high-force winds and rain. Steel has an advantage because it’s naturally strong. In fact, all of our steel buildings have a wind rating up to 180 mph, which would be a Category 5 hurricane, the most destructive classification of storms there is.
Are Hurricane-Rated Structures a Requirement in Florida?
If you ask anyone in construction, they’ll tell you that Florida is notorious for having a robust building code, and for good reason. Every year since 1850, the entire coast of Florida has been hit by at least one hurricane, meaning the whole state is at risk when a hurricane comes through. In order to protect its people and prevent damage, the Florida government requires strict building regulations, including hurricane-rated structures and homes.
And we’ve seen good results from these rules—newer homes are faring much better in recent hurricanes than older homes are. So whether you’re just looking for a small shed or a whole tubular steel frame building project, make sure you and your contractor are following the building codes required by Florida law.
Benefits of a Steel Building in Florida During Hurricane Season
Investing in steel buildings for Florida weather comes with some unique benefits. Here are the top six benefits of building with steel when you’re facing unpredictable weather.
1. One of the Strongest Materials There Is
Steel is one of the strongest materials there is, especially in the construction industry. So when you invest in tubular steel frame buildings, you can rest assured that your building is already set up to withstand high winds and stay strong throughout the years.
More and more buildings in Florida are moving toward steel frames for this reason—it allows for taller buildings with a sturdy foundation and structure.
2. Cost-Effective to Build & Repair
In the case that your steel building is damaged or needs replacing after a hurricane, steel structures are incredibly cost-effective to build and repair. They also require less maintenance and labor, saving you money in the long run.
3. Resistant to the Elements
From wind and rain to fire and rust, hurricane-rated steel structures are designed to resist nearly everything the weather can bring. Unlike traditional wooden structures that are prone to water damage and catching fire, steel avoids these problems altogether. Steel buildings are even resistant to snowstorms and ice, though that is not a common problem we face in Florida.
4. Made to Stay Anchored
While wind load-rated metal buildings are already proven to withstand the storm, we go a step further by anchoring these buildings down. The steel structure buildings are anchored to the ground using high wind ground anchors, which are rated to withstand the winds of your area.
If the building has a concrete foundation, as some larger steel buildings and carports might, they are anchored to the ground using concrete anchors. This provides an extra layer of protection and ensures your building can withstand hurricane-force winds.
5. Insulated & Energy-Efficient
Steel buildings are well insulated, increasing their energy efficiency. This is a benefit all year long because it means you can spend less on energy costs, but it can also be particularly useful during hurricane season. Insulation means the cool air is kept in and the hot air is kept out. So if you lose power during a hurricane, an insulated steel building may remain cooler for longer, allowing for increased comfort and temperature regulation.
6. Peace of Mind with a Hurricane-Proof Carport
A common concern during hurricane season is car protection. If you don’t have a garage or carport, your car could be at risk for hail damage or hit by hurricane debris. If this is the case for your home, you may want to consider investing in a carport rated for Florida wind, and steel buildings are the perfect solution for this.
Imagine all of the benefits we’ve already listed, but inside the steel structure is your car, protected from all elements. You can enjoy peace of mind and protection this season by building a Florida storm-resistant structure for your car.
Buildings And More Steel Structures Are Built for Rain & Shine!
Whether you’re looking for increased protection during hurricane season or just want a building that’s going to last, Buildings and More has you covered! All our portable steel structures are rated for 150-180 MPH winds and are built with quality in mind. From a backyard shed to an entire new building, our solutions keep you safe and protected all year round. Get in touch with our team today to begin planning your next, hurricane-resistant building project!
