Hurricane Approved Carports

Hurricane Rating

• Finding a hurricane-approved carport can be a source of confusion and frustration because there are no national standards for hurricane ratings. When a company promises hurricane-approved or, as more commonly appears in advertising, hurricane-rated carports, this can mean any of a number of things. For instance, it may mean that the company simulates hurricane-like conditions for its product testing, that the company’s products previously withstood hurricanes with minimal damage or that the company based the design and materials of a carport on those known to have withstood hurricanes.

Building Codes

• Each state and many municipalities and cities have building codes on the books. These building codes require all buildings erected in an area to meet standards for safety and habitability. In hurricane regions, building codes generally anticipate the eventuality of a large storm and require strict adherence to standards to ensure optimal hurricane protection. In Florida, for instance, you must apply for a permit to erect a carport. The carport must meet state standards, and a state agent must inspect the site before you install the carport. Therefore, in Florida, a carport advertised as hurricane-rated may be one that meets state building code standards. Check with your state and local building code enforcement division for provisions on carports.

Carport Companies

• Numerous manufacturers produce carports, and many of them claim their products resist hurricane damage. Before purchasing a carport, ask for proof of a carport’s hurricane resistance or what exactly the company means by “hurricane-rated” or “hurricane-approved.” U.S. Buildings, a steel specialty company, manufactures steel structures, including carports, and has product approval with the state of Florida. One of the company’s structures purportedly withstood Hurricane Katrina. Absolute Steel of Texas offers evidence that one of its carports withstood Hurricane Wilma.

Resources

• The search for the best hurricane-resistant carport may be frustrating. Making optimal use of your resources can reduce these concerns. Contact someone you know in a hurricane region that has a carport and ask about their experience in dealing with storms and heavy weather. Speak with neighbors or other people in your area that have carports and ask whether the structure withstood a recent hurricane or is approved to do so. You can also contact a local expert, such as a university engineering professor or construction manager, and get a list of things you should look for when purchasing a carport for hurricane resistance.