Hurricane Season Archives - FHIA Remodeling

Four 4th of July Entertaining Tips for the Host

Happy (almost) 4th of July! Independence Day is a day full of hot dogs, watermelon, fireworks, and friends and we are here to help you prepare for the event of the summer.

1. Decorations

A fun way to bring your house to the next level is to make your home festive with red, white, and blue decorations. It’ll also provide great photo opportunities for you and your guests. A few ways to incorporate red, white, and blue in your décor is:

Red, white, and blue napkins and table cloths
Small flags in the front yard
Burlap runner on picnic tables
Place extra flags in flower arrangements

2. Garden Games

Before your friends and family arrive for the backyard BBQ, set up backyard games to provide an activity for guest and a fun way for everyone to mingle. It is also great to keep the kids entertained. Some of our favorite backyard games are:

Corn Hole
Kan Jam
Bocce Ball
Horseshoes

3. Themed Drinks

Every event needs a themed drink and 4th of July has hundreds of options to choose from. You can find picture worthy drinks on Pinterest or have fun creating your own recipe! We listed our favorite festive drinks for the holiday below.

Create a signature red, white and blue cocktail:

Ingredients:

1 oz Grenadine
3 oz Lemonade
1 oz Vodka
1 oz blue Curacao
Ice

Watermelon mocktail:

Ingredients:

Fresh watermelon juice
Lime juice
Seltzer water
Fresh mint

4. Tasty Finger Foods & BBQ

Nothing says Fourth of July like a backyard BBQ. It is easy to get overwhelmed when preparing for a holiday event so make sure you prepare early. You don’t want to wait until the last minute to go out and buy supplies when everyone is shopping. When inviting guests, ask them to bring an appetizer to share with the group to decrease your stress and allow you to enjoy the day. You can also create a meat and cheese board for everyone to share.

2021 Atlantic Hurricane Predictions (And What It Means for Florida Homeowners)

When it comes to the safety of our family and homes against an upcoming hurricane season, every homeowner wishes they could see into the future to know what they’re up against. Luckily, thanks to the hurricane researchers at Colorado State University, we’re provided their weather predictions for the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season — no time machine necessary.

Storm season is here and with an influx of major storm events across the country, we can anticipate an eventful hurricane season for Atlantic and Florida homeowners. The weather researchers of CSU have predicted a more active hurricane season in 2021, due to the weakened presence of El Nino. Usually, El Nino suppresses hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin. However, due to average temperatures in the tropical Atlantic sea surface being paired with some warmer-than-usual sea surface temperatures of the subtropical Atlantic, CSU doesn’t expect El Nino to carry westerly winds across the Caribbean to the tropical Atlantic as usual. This shift in El Nino points to a higher potential storm risk in Florida, so we’re going to go over what to expect and how to prepare yourself against this unusually active 2021 storm season.

How many storms?

While forecasts are not certain, we are able to see that this year is expected to be particularly above-average in terms of weather events. The researchers at Colorado State have forecasted 17 named hurricanes (a substantial climb from the average 12.1 for 1981-2010). Along with this, we can expect 80 forecasted storm days, another substantial increase from the prior average of 59.4. Out of the 17 predicted storms, the researchers involved in this forecast predict at least eight to become hurricanes and four to become major, high-wind hurricanes. Of course, nothing is set in stone, so for homeowners to stay up to date on storm season the CSU hurricane research team will update forecast predictions on June 3rd, July 8th, and August 5th on their website.

How do we know this?

The team at CSU used 40 years of historical hurricane data, measuring the surface temperatures of the Atlantic, pressure levels, vertical wind shear levels (the change in wind direction and speed with height in the atmosphere), El Niño (warming of waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific), and other factors to come to this conclusion. In simpler terms, El Nino can’t carry the vertical winds from the Pacific that are crucial for stopping these trade winds in the Atlantic, so the wind continues to turn and grow into the potentially dangerous storms we know as hurricanes. The CSU team predicts that this upcoming hurricane activity will reach about 140% of the average season. While at first glance this prediction is shocking, remember that 2020’s hurricane activity was approximately 170% of the average season. Colorado State University has been releasing forecasts for hurricane season for 38 years, and their data can help coastal residents know to properly prepare. While we do know this year’s predictions, these statistics are merely best estimates, not an exact science.

What does this mean for Florida Homeowners?

Anticipating a busy storm season this year, we suggest homeowners are sure to prepare their homes for the storm season now more than ever. We are proud to offer Storm-Ready impact windows for added security. We also recommend checking out our Hurricane Preparedness Guide, for extra tips on how to prepare your family and home for a hurricane.

Be Storm Ready with a New Roof (Help Protect What Matters)

Hurricane season is already in full swing, and it’s essential to be proactive when it comes to protecting your house from extreme weather. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against inclement weather. Older or damaged roofs may be more susceptible to damage, so it’s important to ask yourself, ‘Is my roof storm ready?’ Keep reading to find out!

Older roofs are more prone to damage

Older roofs are more likely to have structural issues and pre-existing damage. So when a storm hits, roofs like these can face even more damage and become worse for wear. Some of the damage a defective roof can face during a storm is:

Roof curling
Lifted or removed shingles
Leaks and water damage
Mold and rot
Missing flashing

Before storms can further compromise your roof, it’s vital to get an inspection and consider getting your roof replaced. Getting an inspection now will save you from costly repairs in the future and will also help keep your home safe.

Your insurance may not cover old roofs

Because insurance companies consider a roof’s age and existing damages when providing coverage, some insurance companies do not provide coverage for older roofs. The typical cut-off age for this around 20 years or older. And while some homeowner insurance policies allow for roofs older than 20 years to be covered, the roofs must pass a thorough inspection. If your home’s roof is older than 20 years, it’s a good idea to look into a roof replacement. While it may seem costly now, it’s a smart investment that can help you maintain insurance coverage.

Schedule an inspection today

Roofing experts suggest getting your roof inspected twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Now is the time to make sure your roof is in shape and can withstand the inevitable rain and with this hurricane season. Scheduling an inspection today can help give you peace of mind this storm season. Not sure how to get started? FHIA is here to help. FHIA offers free roof inspections and roof replacement estimates. For more information, call FHIA today (813 547-5077) or fill out our online form now to get started.

Strengthening Your Home With New Windows

For security, energy-efficiency, and to protect against the Florida storms, builder-grade windows usually don’t come up to par. Most importantly for Florida homeowners, they’re not impact resistant. Ideally, your windows should protect you from ALL outside elements (and human ones) and should keep your HVAC system from working overtime. Here’s how you can strengthen your home so it can keep protecting you…

Upgrade to SolarMax® Glass

SolarMax® Glass is a low-e glass package only available at FHIA! It qualifies for ENERGY STAR approval, blocks up to 95% of all UV rays, and can withstand high winds and flying debris without shattering. That means, NO MORE STORM SHUTTERS!

Switch to StormSaver Windows

Our StormSaver Windows are engineered to endure Florida’s worst tropical storms. These vinyl windows withstand powerful winds and pressures of +/- 100 mph. Another exclusive to FHIA, we pioneered these windows with the help of CWS, the manufacturer of the #1 hurricane window since 1986!

Choose FHIA Remodeling!

For quality installation you can trust, choose FHIA Remodeling! As a partner to ETI, PGT, and CWS, we offer some of the best warranty protection around. Coverage may include window installation, accidental glass breakage, and even hurricane glass breakage.

Bottom line, if you want to increase your home’s strength and value, you want impact-resistant, energy-efficient glass, and insulated, heavy-duty frames from FHIA. Our windows will protect you against hurricane-force winds and flying debris, so there’s no need for shutters.

Updating your windows means you’ll be saving yourself the worry and potential cost of repairs after a hurricane. Not to mention, increasing your curb appeal and home value, sound reduction, and potentially saving on your homeowner’s insurance and electric bills! With our team’s expertise, our reputation for great service, and our industry-leading warranty, we’re the clear choice to help you and your home. Give us a call to set up a no-obligation consultation or fill out our online form to speak with a representative about a free quote.

#StormReady: How to Prepare for a Florida Hurricane

If you live in Florida, you know hurricanes are a risk every year. But with signs of La Niña in the Atlantic, this year’s hurricane season is currently on pace to match the number of named storms in 2005’s record-breaking season. As of August 2020, we have had 11 named storms in the Atlantic one month before peak hurricane season. The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration states the “updated outlook calls for 19-25 named storms (winds of 39 mph or greater), of which 7-11 will become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater), including 3-6 major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater).”

Preparing for a hurricane is critical knowledge to have as a homeowner right now. How can you get and stay prepared? Here are our top tips…

Designate a Safe Room

Choose an interior room on the first floor of your home with no windows. This could be a laundry room, a large hall closet, or a bathroom. Your family should be able to comfortably sit inside. Furthermore, you should store a battery-operated radio, some flashlights, and a first aid kit inside. Once a hurricane watch is issued, you should also include a 3-day supply of food and water.

Maintain Your Lawn

Storms have strong winds. Make sure your trees and shrubs are maintained to prevent branches and debris from flying around during a storm. When a hurricane watch is issued, you should put away all lawn furniture and anything else that might be picked up and thrown at your home.

Strengthen Your Home

Make sure all your windows and doors are in working order. That means no drafts, loose locks, or cracks. Your windows, doors, siding, and roof are your home’s first line of defense. Consider upgrading to storm windows specifically designed to withstand powerful winds and pressure. Not only will you protect your home, but you’ll also increase your energy efficiency year-round, and you won’t have to mess with storm shutters.

Homeowner’s Insurance

Read over your policy and make sure you understand what is and is NOT covered. If you have any questions, contact your agent and get clarification before a storm hits. Take a video of the outside and inside of your home to document baseline conditions and contents.

For more tips on getting and staying ready for a hurricane, download our complete Hurricane Preparedness Guide here!

If you’re ready to make the switch and finally ditch those clunky storm shutters, contact us today for a free quote! Our representative will cover all your options, answer any questions you might have, and give you a custom quote that’s good for 12 months. Take the first step towards peace of mind, request a quote now.

About Us

FHIA has served Florida homeowners for the past 50 years. Our commitment to quality work and quality service has recently earned us the sixth spot on Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 List of remodelers nationwide. We were also ranked third this year by Remodeling Magazine. Learn more about FHIA and our work here.

#StormReady: How to Protect Your Home & Put Aside Worries

Every hurricane season, Floridians dust off their storm shutters and prepare to do the put-up/take-down dance at the whim of the local weather station. It’s not a matter of whether or not we will get hit by a storm, just a matter of how hard it will hit. Knowing the certainty of storms here in Florida, we’ve come up with several solutions to help you protect your home with minimal effort.

Impact-Resistant Windows

Here at FHIA, we have served the state of Florida for over 50 years. We know and understand Florida homes and their needs. We developed a custom impact-resistant window, specifically designed to withstand Florida storms. Say goodbye to your clunky storm shutters! With our windows, you will be instantly prepared no matter what mother nature throws our way.

Why are they so efficient? Because they combine…

SolarMax® Glass: a low-e glass package only available at FHIA. It qualifies for ENERGY STAR approval, blocks up to 95% of all UV rays, and can withstand high winds and flying debris without shattering.
StormSaver Windows: Engineered to endure Florida’s worst tropical storms, these vinyl windows withstand powerful winds and pressures of +/- 100 mph. Another exclusive to FHIA, we pioneered these windows with the help of CWS, the manufacturer of the #1 hurricane window since 1986!

No other window can protect your home like ours can!

Custom Doors

Once we cracked the code for windows, doors were next. Aside from the sturdy, pressure-resistant frames and, for select doors, the custom glass package – our expert installers make sure the frame and door are fitted and locked in so your door not only protects against the elements but adds to the security of your home!

Our large selection of products makes it easy to upgrade the security and resistance of your home without sacrificing curb appeal. Click here to see all our window and door styles. Don’t forget, we also work with custom orders, so if you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for, let us know!

Prepare your home for the next hurricane by upgrading your doors and windows. Toss out the shutters and rest easy knowing your home is always protected. Get a free quote from a nationally ranked remodeling company.

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Are Hurricane Windows Required in Florida?

Florida’s Building Code requires impact windows or exterior protection used over the windows of homes in some areas of the state. In fact, certain counties and cities may have even more stringent requirements for their resident’s windows. If you’re planning to replace your windows, make sure you get the correct kind to meet your county or municipalities requirements.

What are Hurricane Windows?

Hurricane windows are designed specifically for areas that are hit by hurricanes on a regular basis. These windows may be constructed of stronger materials, with a more durable design, and using special glass. Hurricane windows in Miami are tested according to the state and county regulations where you live and certified as meeting those basic requirements.

There are two basic kinds of glass used in hurricane windows:

Impact-Resistant: Made from two pieces of glass sandwiched together with a thin sheet of plastic. When broken the glass adheres to the plastic and remains in the frame.
Tempered Glass: Made from heat-treated glass that is brought to a high temperature and rapidly cooled to compress the edges. It breaks into small fragments, rather than shards, when broken which minimizes the hazard to people.

The Basic Requirements of the Florida Building Code for Windows

In 2001, after the devastating damage caused by Hurricane Andrew, the Florida Building Code (FBC) Association established stronger requirements for wind and debris resistant housing. The association incorporated certain requirements for hurricane resistant windows that apply to homes within 1 mile of the coast where the wind speed can reach 110 m.p.h. or greater.

However, the code also allows counties and municipalities to establish stricter regulations than required by the FBC. So, you’ll want to check with your city’s building code department to find out what codes your windows need to meet where you live.

The current version of the FBC offers three basic options for protecting your windows:

You can install impact-resistant windows that pass one of these tests; Miami-Dade TAS 201, 202 and 203 or ASTM E1886 and E1996 impact tests.
You can install precut plywood shutters that are a minimum of 7/16-inch thick. These shutters must also be installed with a code-appropriate anchorage system.
You can install shutters of another material that are of an approved design type, such as roll down, panel, or accordion. They must pass one of these tests; Miami-Dade protocols TAS 201, 202 and 203 or ASTM E1886 and E1996 impact tests.

High Velocity Hurricane Zones

If you live in Miami-County or Broward County, you are considered to be living in a High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ). These are areas where the wind speeds can be even higher during a hurricane, as much as 180 m.p.h. or greater.

Both Miami-Dade and Broward County have established more stringent building codes and their own testing protocols. Residents will want to make sure their windows are specifically evaluated and approved for HVHZs before having them installed.

If you are planning on replacing your windows, turn to FHIA Remodeling. We’re a hurricane window company serving South Florida. Our team is familiar with state building codes and can source exceptionally strong Miami impact-resistant windows for your property. Give us a call or fill out our online form to begin with a free consultation and window replacement quote today.

How to Prepare Your Windows for Hurricane Season

Surviving a hurricane may sound like a once-in-a-lifetime ordeal, but most residents of Florida know that hurricanes are a simple fact of life. With the right preparation for your home—especially for its more vulnerable components like windows and doors—you can enter each hurricane season with confidence, calm, and peace of mind.

Here are a few simple tips for preparing your windows before a storm:

Install Hurricane Windows – It’s no secret that the very best way to prepare your windows for Florida storm season is to replace them with stronger, higher-quality storm windows. Especially if you have an older home, your windows are likely far flimsier and less durable than even cheapest windows available today! Installing impact-resistant windows (especially those that meet Miami-Dade County’s strict requirements) will keep glass from shattering, even with direct impacts of 100+ mph.
Don’t Neglect Any Windows – Some Florida homeowners mistakenly believe that only waterfront-facing windows need to be specially protected. Since flying debris can blow from all angles, it’s important to take precautions for all of your home’s windows—first floor, second floor, water-facing, or not.
Install Hurricane Shutters – Most often crafted from aluminum or other metal materials, hurricane shutters are a next-best solution to protect your home’s windows. Although they do provide a layer of exterior defense, they also require a bit of manual labor to set up, especially if you have many windows or particularly large windows. Still, they’re definitely recommended if your windows aren’t storm-rated.
Board up Your Windows – If you have neither hurricane hurricane windows nor hurricane shutters, then plywood is likely your best alternative to preventing window glass breakage. If available near you, metal or plastic storm panels will provide more reliable protection than plywood for a comparable price.
Clean Your Yard – Any items sitting in your yard can become high-speed projectiles under the right hurricane conditions! Be sure to move any outdoor furniture, cooking equipment, umbrellas, or loose yard décor into storage. If you have time, it’s also a good idea to trim your tree branches short enough that they cannot directly beat against your windows, siding, or roof.
Forget the Tape! Whatever you do, don’t buy into the myth that taping an X across your windows will help. In fact, tape can actually make your windows more dangerous! Rather than shatter into small, relatively harmless pieces, the tape can force glass into huge shards that cause much more damage.

Although hurricane season lasts up to five months of the year, the good news is that we’re rarely caught off guard. Weather experts track the start of storm season every year, and the earlier you take steps to protect your windows, the safer your family will be when June 1 rolls around!

By adequately preparing your Florida home with storm-ready, energy-efficient solutions, you won’t just survive hurricane season; you’ll be able to thrive all year long—no matter the winds or weather outside.

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