Upgrading Homes in Asheville to Be More Hurricane-Resistant
Asheville home owners know first hand that hurricanes are among the most powerful natural disasters, capable of causing immense destruction in a short amount of time. While Asheville is not directly on the coast, the increasing unpredictability of weather patterns means that homes should be built or upgraded with storm resilience in mind. Strengthening homes against hurricanes not only reduces costly repairs but also enhances safety for residents.
Notable Hurricanes That Have Impacted Asheville
Though not as vulnerable as coastal regions, Asheville has still been affected by hurricanes. 2024 Hurricane Helene, for example, brought significant wind, rain, river and runoff flood, mud slide, and tree damage to Asheville NC homes. Understanding the historical impact of hurricanes helps in preparing homes to resist future storms.
Key Materials for Hurricane-Resistant Homes
Selecting the right materials and construction methods is crucial to make a home more prepared for a hurricane. Some people might call it hurricane proofing your home, but most residential upgrades still won’t prevent 100% of of hurricane damage.
Here are some of the best options to look at getting started with.
1. Concrete Construction ($50-$100 per square foot)
Concrete is one of the strongest building materials available, with high resistance to wind and impact. Reinforced concrete walls provide stability, reducing the risk of structural failure.
2. Cement Block or Masonry Units ($10-$15 per square foot)
Cement blocks, when combined with steel reinforcements, create a strong and rigid structure. Though more expensive than wood construction, they offer better protection against hurricanes.
3. Steel Frame Construction ($20-$40 per square foot)
Steel is becoming more common in residential construction due to its strength and fire resistance. Metal studs in load-bearing walls provide greater wind resistance than traditional wood framing.
4. Wood Construction with Hurricane Strapping ($500-$2,000 per home)
Wood remains a popular building material, but it must be reinforced for hurricane resistance. Hurricane strapping secures walls and roofs to prevent separation during high winds. Additionally, shear walls help distribute wind forces evenly, reducing the risk of collapse.
5. Metal Roofing ($5-$15 per square foot)
Traditional asphalt shingles are prone to being ripped off by strong winds. A metal roof, on the other hand, provides greater durability and wind resistance, ensuring the structure remains intact.
6. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) ($20-$40 per square foot)
ICFs consist of concrete reinforced with steel and insulated between layers of foam. These forms create walls that are not only highly resistant to wind and debris but also provide excellent insulation.
Additional Hurricane-Resistant Upgrades
Though Asheville is not a coastal city, the region still experiences strong storms, heavy rain, and high winds. Homeowners can take the following steps to enhance their home’s hurricane resistance:
Upgrade to Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors ($40-$100 per square foot): Strong windows and reinforced doors prevent breakage and reduce wind pressure changes inside the home.
Install Storm Shutters ($50-$500 per window): These provide an additional layer of protection against flying debris.
Reinforce the Roof ($3,000-$10,000): Secure roofing materials with hurricane clips and ensure proper sealing to prevent water intrusion.
Elevate the Home ($10,000-$30,000): For flood-prone areas, elevating the structure can prevent water damage.
Improve Drainage Systems ($1,000-$5,000): Ensuring proper drainage prevents water accumulation around the foundation.
Remove Dangerous Trees ($200-$2,000 per tree): Trees that are too close to homes can cause major damage if uprooted during a hurricane. Removing weak or dead trees and trimming large branches can significantly reduce the risk of impact damage.
Understanding Hurricane Damage Potential
Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters and grow as they interact with the Earth’s rotation. These storms are categorized using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale:
Category 1 (74-95 mph) – Some damage expected
Category 2 (96-110 mph) – Extensive damage
Category 3 (111-129 mph) – Devastating damage
Category 4 (130-156 mph) – Catastrophic damage
Category 5 (157+ mph) – Catastrophic damage
Even a Category 1 hurricane can cause roof damage, fallen trees, and power outages. Higher categories can result in complete structural failures. Homes in Asheville should be reinforced to withstand strong winds and heavy rainfall associated with hurricanes.