Windstorms are a genuine concern for people living in Broward County, Florida. High winds and hurricanes can damage homes, cause roof leaks, and even put families in danger. That’s why windstorm visibility is important.

I’ll explain what windstorm visibility means, the risks it helps prevent, and the steps you can take to keep your Broward home safe. As an experienced home inspector, I see firsthand how the right precautions make a big difference for families across South Florida.

What Does Windstorm Visibility Mean?

Windstorm visibility is all about understanding how at-risk your home is when strong winds or storms hit. It’s not just about being able to see a storm coming; it’s about knowing how your home will handle wind, rain, and flying debris. This includes the way your roof is built, the type of windows and doors you have, and how well your home is kept up. When you improve windstorm visibility, you can spot weak points before a storm causes problems.

Why Broward Homes Are at Risk

Broward County is in a hurricane zone. Each year, we face the threat of tropical storms, heavy rain, and fast-moving winds. Many homes in this area are older, built before strong building codes became common. That means roofs, windows, or walls might not be strong enough for today’s storms.

Here are some main reasons homes in Broward are at risk during windstorms:

Aging roofs: Older roofs can have loose shingles or weak areas that allow water to enter.
Single-pane windows: Windows without storm protection can break easily in high winds.
Loose doors and garage doors: These can blow open or fall off, allowing wind and water to enter.
Poor home maintenance: Cracks in walls, broken gutters, or clogged drains make a home weaker during storms.

Common Windstorm Hazards for Homes

It’s easy to forget just how powerful wind can be. A strong gust can rip shingles off a roof, break windows, or even move heavy outdoor furniture. Some of the most common windstorm hazards in Broward homes include:

Roof Damage: High winds can lift or break roof tiles, shingles, or even the roof deck itself. Once the roof is damaged, rain can get inside and ruin walls, ceilings, and belongings.
Broken Windows: Wind can throw tree branches, rocks, or other debris into windows. Broken glass allows wind and water to enter, which can quickly exacerbate the situation.
Flooding: If heavy rain comes with a windstorm, blocked gutters and drains can cause water to pool around your home or leak inside.
Flying Debris: Things like lawn chairs, grills, or tree branches can turn into dangerous projectiles during a storm. These objects can break windows, damage siding, or cause injury to someone.

How to Create a Windstorm Safety Plan

Knowing what to do before, during, and after a windstorm can keep your family safe and reduce property damage. Here’s a simple safety plan to follow:

Before the Storm

Secure windows and doors with shutters or boards.
Move cars into a garage or carport.
Bring loose objects inside.
Charge phones and gather flashlights and batteries.
Store important documents in a safe, dry place.

During the Storm

Stay indoors, away from windows and glass doors.
Do not go outside, even if it seems calm (the eye of the storm).
Listen to weather updates on a battery-powered radio.

After the Storm

Watch out for downed power lines and flooding.
Take pictures of any damage for insurance claims.
Wait until local authorities say it’s safe before going outside.
Contact a professional for inspections or repairs as needed.

Benefits of Taking Action Now

Many people put off windstorm safety because they think, “It won’t happen to me.” But every year, storms cause damage that could have been prevented. Here’s why taking action now is worth it:

Save Money: Upgrades like shutters, roof repairs, or reinforced doors can lower your insurance costs. They also save you from big repair bills after a storm.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is ready for a storm helps you feel safe and calm when warnings come.
Protect Your Family: A strong, safe home is the best way to keep your loved ones out of harm’s way.
Increase Home Value: Improvements for windstorm safety can make your house more attractive to buyers if you ever decide to move.

What Home Inspectors Look For

As a home inspector, I pay close attention to details that might seem small but make a big difference during a storm. Some things I check include:

Roof shape and how it is attached to the walls
Type of roof covering and how it is fastened
Age and material of windows and doors
Type and strength of shutters
Garage door support
Wall and foundation cracks
Condition of attic vents and soffits

I also look for signs of past water damage or mold, which may indicate that the home has experienced leaks during storms in the past.

Stay Safe and Ready

Windstorm visibility isn’t just about seeing a storm on the horizon. It’s about knowing your home’s strengths and fixing weak spots before trouble starts. With the right steps, you can protect your property, save money, and keep your family safe during Broward’s windstorm season.

If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to a local expert for a wind mitigation inspection and get real answers about your home’s risk. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—being ready today makes all the difference tomorrow.

Windstorm Visibility: Mitigating Broward Home Risks