Building for Hurricane Resilience on the Gulf Coast
Houston building codes have tightened steadily since Hurricane Harvey. Here's what we tell our customers about specifying materials for storm resilience in 2026.
Start with the envelope
Impact-rated windows and doors are the single biggest improvement most homeowners can make. Look for products tested to ASTM E1996 with large-missile impact ratings. Our impact-rated picture windows and entry doors come standard with these certifications.
Roof tie-downs and uplift
The 2021 IRC adopted in most Harris County jurisdictions requires hurricane straps at every rafter-to-top-plate connection in new construction. Retrofitting existing structures is a high-ROI insurance discount.
Flood-resilient interiors
If your jobsite is in a flood zone, choose materials that survive submersion: SPC flooring over laminate, closed-cell spray foam over fiberglass batts, and tile or stone wall finishes in the lowest 24 inches.
Wind-driven rain & door assemblies
A surprising number of insurance claims trace back to wind-driven water at door thresholds. Spec doors with continuous sill pans, factory-applied weatherstripping on three sides, and a corner-sealed sill.
What we stock for hurricane season
- Impact-rated windows (single-hung, picture, sliding)
- Fiberglass & mahogany impact-rated entry doors
- SPC luxury vinyl rated for full submersion
- Hardie fiber-cement siding (Class 4 impact)
Reach out before the next storm season — lead times stretch in June and July.