I would start by asking your builder if he has installed impact resistant windows. New Florida Building Codes require hurricane shutters or impact resistant windows. Depending on location, builders in coastal counties are required to build homes to withstand winds of 110 to 150 miles per hour. There is a difference if your a single residential home or a high-rise building. Provisions of the code that were adopted by the HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zones) required all new residential construction must include hurricane shutters or impact resistant windows. Doors and windows must meet stringent design pressure requirements (psf). Check your location with the Florida wind-born debre map (see ASCE 7-98 wind map).
Recent and Upcoming Changes to Florida Building Codes Include:
- The Panhandle exclusion zone was removed effective January 25, 2007.
- AAMA/WDMA 101/IS2/NAFS, Voluntary Performance Specification for windows, skylights and glass doors, AAMA/WEMA/CSA 101/LS.2/A440 or TAS 202 (HVHZ shall comply with TAS 202).
- Wind-borne debris protection shall be required seaward of the 120 mph wind line and seaward of the 110 mph line within 1 mile of the coast (see ASCE 7-98 wind map) effective June 1, 2007.
Hurricane Preparedness Expert
