3 Must-Haves For Hurricane-Proof Designs

1- Durable Roofing:
A TPO membrane from provides strong resistance to tears, punctures, and impact damage. Installed over waterproof plywood sheathing, the white material also reflects sunlight to help keep the house cool.

2- Strong Framing:
Laminated veneer lumber (LVLs) featuring cross graining and engineered layers provides superior strength and less waste.

3- Impact-Resistant Windows & Doors:
Impact-resistant windows and sliding doors with laminated glass and durable frames provide protection against large and small airborne debris.

These three items are the most important items in planning for the best Hurricane-Proof dwelling.
Information shared from 'Builder' Magazine, December 2014 - http://www.builderonline.com/building/three-elements-of-a-hurricane-proof-house_o

Use Plenum Trusses To Keep Ducts Out of Your Attic: If you want to do something really stupid with the ducts for a heating and air conditioning system, put them in an unconditioned attic.

In cold climates, designers, builders, and contractors know this and, for the most part, avoid it. They also have basements as an alternative location. In hot climates, designers, builders, and contractors do the really stupid thing all the time. Use Plenum Trusses To Keep Ducts Out Of Your Attic!

 

See-through fireplaces boost design options
Versatile indoor/outdoor propane fireplaces capitalize on the outdoor living trend while sealing out fluctuating weather conditions. This is a really great way to get the fireplace on an outside viewing wall without blocking the view! Really great on Ocean-Front or Water-Side cottages!

See-through fireplaces boost design options

Flood insurance bill gets final push from senators
WASHINGTON — A bipartisan group of senators made another push Tuesday (1-7-14) for a vote on legislation to delay hikes in federal flood insurance premiums, saying the number of property owners facing skyrocketing increases grows each day. http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/01/07/flood-insurance-premiums-senate-bill/4362861/