Protecting Your Florida Home's Foundation During Hurricane Season
As Floridians, we face the yearly threat of devastating hurricanes. In 2023, Hurricane Idalia hit Keaton Beach on August 30th as a Category 3 hurricane, unleashing destructive storm surges and unrelenting winds. The Big Bend Coast experienced an intensity not seen in years, with sustained winds of 125 miles per hour.
Idalia's landfall brought a staggering 10-foot storm surge to coastal towns like Steinhatchee and Cedar Key, and Crystal River faced surge estimates of 7 to 9 feet. The hurricane caused a tragic loss of lives and an estimated $20 billion in property damage.
Given these dire circumstances, many Floridians are concerned about whether their homes can withstand the fierce winds and flooding during hurricane season.
Even if your home isn't hit directly, torrential rain can still cause foundation damage. Are you prepared? Let's explore how you can make sure your home's foundation is ready for the next inevitable hurricane.
The Importance of Preparing Your Foundation
In the aftermath of the catastrophic Hurricane Andrew in 1992, Florida implemented the Florida Building Code, establishing stringent standards for coastal homes. However, many homes were constructed before these standards came into effect, and others have not received the necessary maintenance to endure the challenges of a major hurricane. While some factors may be beyond our control, there are proactive measures you can take to protect your home's foundation.
Key Features to Inspect Around Your Home's Foundation:
- Soil Type and Compaction: Water runoff from your roof due to heavy rainfall can have a profound impact on the soil around your foundation. Assess the soil surrounding your home. Clay soil can expand significantly when saturated, exerting pressure on the foundation. Conversely, sandy soil can create drainage issues, potentially leading to cracks and weakened foundations. Consider professional soil inspections to identify loose or poorly compacted soil, a common issue in construction.
- Sloping Terrain: Examine the grade of your yard. Proper grading ensures water flows away from your foundation, preventing pooling during heavy rains. If your yard slopes toward your home, consider installing a drainage system to divert excess water.
- Roof and Gutters: Regularly inspect your roof and gutters. Ensure they are free from debris and damage. Well-maintained gutters are crucial for directing water away from your foundation, protecting it from excess moisture.
- Crawl Space: If your home has a crawl space, it may trap moisture during hurricanes, leading to wood rot and mold growth. Consider installing an effective waterproofing and encapsulation system to provide proficient moisture control and air quality protection.
Greater foundational support, healthier air, and even a reported 15-20% savings on energy costs can be one of the smartest moves to protect your largest investment.
The hurricane season in Florida brings understandable fear and uncertainty. However, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home's foundation is well-prepared to withstand the harsh conditions of a major storm is invaluable. For expert reassurance, consider scheduling a free inspection with LRE Foundation Repair.
Our team of professionals can provide certainty during these worrisome times. Protect your largest investment—schedule an appointment with LRE Foundation Repair and give your home a fighting chance against the forces of nature.
