As the 2024 hurricane season approaches, Floridians must prepare for what experts are predicting to be an extremely active year. With the forecast calling for 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes, it’s crucial to understand the risks and take proactive measures to protect property and loved ones. Also, homeowners in Florida have until June 30, 2024, to take advantage of Florida Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors Sales Tax Exemption. So, there is no better time than now to start considering upgrading your windows and doors.
The 2024 Hurricane Season Prediction
Last month, the South Florida Sun Sentinel highlighted recent research from Colorado State University about the 2024 hurricane season.
- “The die is cast for 2024,” said Phil Klotzbach, an atmospheric researcher at Colorado State University, when looking at the current sea-surface temperature in the Atlantic, and how those will create an active season. Even if the Atlantic warmed as slowly as it ever has into the peak of the season, the temperatures would be “top five” in terms of warmth. “1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than normal — that’s a big deal. That’s a lot of warmth.”
- The report said eleven of the 23 named storms will likely reach hurricane strength, meaning winds of 74 mph or greater.
- Five of the hurricanes will likely reach major hurricane strength (Category 3, 4, and 5) with sustained winds of 111 mph or greater.
- Previously, the highest number of hurricanes Colorado State predicted was nine in 1995, with 11 hurricanes.
Sea-surface temperatures are at record warm levels this spring across most of the tropical and the eastern part of the subtropical Atlantic. This map shows anomaly rates above normal during late March, 2024. The hotter the color the higher the anomaly above the norm from1991 to 2020. (Courtesy Colorado State University)
Understanding Your Risk: Water and Wind
The devastation caused by hurricanes comes not only from the storms themselves but also from their associated threats, including storm surge, heavy rain-induced flooding, strong winds, tornadoes, and rip currents. These threats can lead to widespread property damage, posing risks to residential and commercial structures.
Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season
To safeguard your property and ensure the safety of those within, inspecting and preparing your home and surrounding areas is important. Here are some actionable tips to help you prepare for the upcoming hurricane season:
- Secure outdoor furniture and items to prevent them from being swept away or causing damage.
- Trim trees and shrubs to reduce the risk of falling debris during a storm.
- Protect windows and doors by ensuring proper sealing and the installation of shutters.
- Check your roof for any damage and repair any issues promptly.
- Get to know your neighbors and consider hiring help for home hardening evaluations if needed.
- Prepare a hurricane kit, including essential supplies and medications.
By following these steps, you can help mitigate the impact of hurricanes on your property and ensure the safety of your family and visitors.
Understanding Florida Building Codes and Requirements
Florida has implemented stringent building codes to enhance structures’ resilience against hurricanes. All glass doors and windows must be certified by a third-party agency, and products in areas prone to wind-borne debris must meet hurricane impact testing criteria. It’s important to ensure that your property complies with these codes to enhance its ability to withstand hurricane-force winds and debris.
The Importance of Hurricane Preparedness
As the 2024 hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial to stay informed by monitoring local weather reports and heeding alerts issued by the National Weather Service. By proactively preparing your property, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and ensure that your residence is ready to weather the storms of the upcoming hurricane season.
For more information on how to prepare for the 2024 hurricane season and ensure your property’s structural integrity, contact All Glass and Windows for expert guidance and solutions.
FAQ: Investing in Hurricane-Impact Windows and Doors for Sarasota, Florida Homeowners
What are the benefits of installing hurricane-impact windows and doors in Sarasota, Florida?
- Impact windows and doors provide increased storm protection, improved security measures against potential forced entries, enhanced noise reduction capabilities for peaceful living conditions, and improved energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.
- They add value to your home, increase property security, and, over time, provide substantial savings on insurance and energy costs.
How do hurricane-impact windows protect homes during the hurricane season in Sarasota, Florida?
- These windows are designed to withstand the impact of flying debris, gale-force winds, and potential damage caused by hurricanes.
- They offer superior wind and impact resistance, keeping homes safer during severe weather events.
Are hurricane-impact windows and doors a worthwhile investment for homeowners in Sarasota, Florida?
- Investing in impact windows and doors is considered a valuable long-term investment because it can add property value, enhance energy efficiency, and provide significant savings on insurance and utility bills.
How can homeowners benefit from sales tax exceptions for hurricane-impact windows and doors in Sarasota, Florida?
- During the Florida Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors Sales Tax Exemption Period, you may purchase impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors exempt from sales tax on retail sales. “Impact-resistant windows,” “impact-resistant doors,” and “impact-resistant garage doors” refer to windows, doors, and garage doors that are labeled as impact-resistant and have an impact-resistant rating.
- The two-year tax exemption period begins on Friday, July 1, 2022, and ends on Tuesday, June 30, 2024. Additional information on exemptions during the tax exemption period is provided in Tax Information Publication (TIP) No. 22A01-07.
- Do you still have more questions? Visit the Florida Home Hardening Sales Tax Exemption FAQs.
What are the legal and practical implications of not installing hurricane-impact windows and doors in Sarasota, Florida?
- Florida building codes require impact-rated windows in wind-borne debris regions and High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) areas.
- Failure to comply with these requirements may result in fines, legal liabilities, and difficulties in reselling the home, making it essential to invest in hurricane-impact windows and doors for compliance and safety.
For expert guidance and solutions tailored to your specific needs, contact All Glass and Windows and explore the extensive range of high-quality hurricane-impact windows available for Sarasota, Florida homeowners.
Stay safe, stay informed, and stay prepared.
