Wind Resistant House plans:

Building a house plan that is wind resistant requires using exterior materials that have been rated for high winds. Some local home building codes in areas known for high winds require rated materials, such as roofing shingles, exterior doors, garage doors and windows. Most of these products are priced higher than standard products.

Reducing the amount of overhang at the eve or lowering the pitch of a roof, using heavier exterior materials, such as brick, stone, concrete or stucco for exterior walls greatly reduces the amount of damage done by high winds. Using these materials will reduce homeowner's insurance cost.

Products are typically range from 70 mph to 120 mph; the higher the rating the higher the cost.

There are a lot of claims being made right now for earth quake and hurricane proof housing, but unfortunately, homes are at risk. The best advice we can offer is to hire an engineer to review your house plans before building. Most high risk areas have stringent building codes, which requires an engineer's stamp. There are some building systems and building methods which are affordable and offer the best protection against, hurricanes, earthquakes, and fire.

• local building codes are designed for a regions average weather conditions. They seldom require construction standards that will resist winds up to 200 miles per hour.
• There is really no structure that will withstand every disaster, natural or man made.
• It is up to the individual to use good judgment in determining which methods of construction and which materials will best weather the storm.

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