Hurricane Codes for 2023
Hurricane Ian caused $50-$65 billion in insurance losses last year, making it the costliest insured loss in 2022 and the second most expensive ever, only exceeded by Hurricane Katrina in 2005[1]. One of the factors that prevented Ian from causing even more damage than it did was the implementation of updated building codes.
While Florida began instituting structural and waterproofing building standards in 1974, the state standards were minimal. Ordinances varied on a county-by-county basis, with some more stringent than others. That changed after Hurricane Andrew hit in 1992. The devastation was so widespread that regulators realized that stricter structural building codes were needed. In 2000, the state released its first set of up-to-date statewide building standards. Every three years the building code is updated based on new learnings, the climate, and available technologies. The current set of structural standards was released in 2020 and the next set will be released later this year and go into effect in January 2024.
Following modern structural building codes protects people’s homes. According to Building Design and Construction, in Lee County – one of the hardest hit areas during Hurricane Ian, wind caused nearly twice as much damage to homes built before 1996, when building codes for winds started, than to homes built afterwards[2].
The current structural codes require all homes to have either hurricane impact windows or shutters. While both of these options will protect your home, hurricane impact windows offer several benefits over shutters. Specifically, hurricane impact windows:
- Are much easier to use than shutters. They require no maintenance or preparation.
- Create a more pleasant experience during the hurricane since you can look out the window to see what is going on outside and natural light can enter if the power goes out.
- Provide soundproofing every day, enhancing your overall quality of life.
- Provide enhanced security against break-ins since they are nearly impossible to break.
The associates at CitiQuiet Windows and Doors are experts on the different types of hurricane impact windows and doors and can recommend options for you based on your hurricane zone, budget, and style preferences. We can even help you secure the necessary permits and install the windows to make the entire process seamlessly simple. Stop by our showroom on West Rogers Circle or call us and we’ll come to your home to provide customized recommendations.
Since 2012, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors has been engineering and installing high-quality impact windows, doors, and shutters for residential and commercial buildings throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties.
Based in Boca Raton, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors offers a turnkey service to clients including initial design, engineering, and permitting, installation and finish work. From elegant French doors to hurricane impact-resistant windows and sliding glass doors, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors has your solution.
At CitiQuiet Windows and Doors, we carry only the highest-quality products from the nation’s top manufacturers – and we stand behind everything we sell. For a free estimate, contact CitiQuiet Windows and Doors at 561-241-9463, visit us atcitiquiethurricanewindows.com, or stop by the showroom today at 6530 West Rogers Circle, Suite 29, Boca Raton, FL 33487.
With an A+ rating from Better Business Bureau (BBB), CitiQuiet Windows and Doors consistently strives to exceed customer expectations.
[1] CNN. Hurricane Ian carried the largest insured loss around the globe this year, estimates show | CNN. Accessed March 18, 2023.
[2] BDC Network.com. Updated Florida building codes helped newer homes withstand Hurricane Ian (bdcnetwork.com). Accessed March 18, 2023.