Hurricane-Ready Design Tips for Palm Beach Homes 2026
BUILDING CALM IN THE STORM Living along the barrier islands means designing every detail around 180-mph gusts. Today’s Palm Beach projects start with an engineer modeling wind pressure on each wall, then selecting Miami-Dade-rated windows that lock into steel straps hidden inside the bucks. The result is floor-to-ceiling glass that welcomes the view yet can stop a two-by-four traveling at 34 mph. ANCHOR THE SHELL • Concrete tie-beams stitched with epoxy-coated rebar • Ring-shank nails in roof sheathing at six-inch spacing • Garage doors tested for +9.0 / –9.0 psf These small numbers matter more than ornate millwork when the eyewall arrives. ELEVATE AND INSULATE Helical piles lift living areas above projected surge while ventilated breakaway walls let water pass without tearing the super-structure. Walls formed with insulated concrete deliver R-20 comfort and a 4-hour fire rating, so the same assembly saves power in August and blocks debris in September. MANAGE THE PROCESS A construction manager who photographs every strap, bolt, and inspection sticker gives owners digital proof for future insurance renewals and, more important, peace of mind. Strength, style, and documentation now travel together in coastal Florida builds.