Ever heard of a hurricane resistant home?

Most people haven’t.  However, in the near future hurricane resistant homes might be the norm.

As the previous few hurricanes passed through the Southeast and the Gulf Coast, researchers from Clemson University, the University of Florida and Florida International University raced against the line of traffic leaving town and fled directly into the path of the storm.  These teams of wind mitigation researchers collected data on wind speeds and storm surges from Hurricane Gustav and Tropical Storm Hanna.

Why you ask?  In the wake of the devestation from Hurricane Katrina, these researchers and their schools have earned the funding to perform millions of dollars worth of research each year to learn how hurricane damage affects homes- and most importantly- how we can avoid it.

FIU’s International Hurricane Research Center is working on a project called “Wall of Wind” which is being funded by $3.5 million in state and private grants.  “Wall of Wind” is a hurricane simulator, which will be housed in the 8,000 square foot facility currently underway on campus.  The simulator consists of 12 massive  industrial fans that have the capability of pumping out 150 mph winds and pounding rain. A two story home will sit on a  turntable inside the simulator where it will be subjected to a  “hurricane” so researchers can see how the structure responds.

All of this research ultimately will show researchers how homes can be built stronger and more hurricane resistant. If able to determine the specific materials and building practices that can withstand hurricane force winds, homes can begin to be built stronger and the threat of hurricane damage can be alleviated. While many homeowners in hurricane prone areas have outfitted their home with hurricane shutters, reinforced doors, etc., wind researchers are hoping that what they learn from “Wall of Wind” will give them even more insight into hurricane-proofing technologies.

The good news doesn’t end there for homeowners.  Most states require home insurance companies to offer substantial discounts to homeowners who fortify their home with hurricane resistant materials. This new research might not only help protect your home- but also your wallet.

Thanks,

HomeInsurance.com