Creating Outdoor Spaces Built for Hurricanes

As hurricanes grow stronger and more frequent, the calm before a storm offers an opportunity to rethink outdoor spaces. This isn’t only about aesthetics; it’s about durability and resilience. Building hurricane-resistant outdoor living areas is more than a coastal benefit—it’s a necessity.

From hurricane-resistant patio furniture to backyard designs made to withstand severe weather, weather-proof patios, hurricane-rated pergolas, wind-resistant materials, and hurricane-safe outdoor kitchens all help preserve your outdoor oasis, rain or shine.

Ready to make your outdoor space storm-proof? Contact us at TurnKey Outdoor Designs, and let’s bring your vision to life with resilient, beautiful structures designed to weather any storm. Call us today!

Choosing Durable Materials for Hurricane-Prone Areas

Selecting materials for outdoor structures in hurricane-prone areas is critical for safety and longevity. The materials you choose can greatly influence the strength and lifespan of outdoor constructions in areas vulnerable to severe storms.

1. Impact Resistance

Steel and concrete are top choices for hurricane-resistant materials. Steel, especially when reinforced with hurricane straps, provides strong protection against high winds and flying debris. Concrete’s weight makes it a reliable choice for secure foundations and walls, particularly in hurricane zones like Tampa, where resilience against severe weather is essential.

2. Wind Features

Using the right fasteners is key to securing outdoor structures, such as decks and pergolas, during storms. Aluminum and iron are sturdy choices that resist rusting. Storm shutters help protect outdoor kitchens and patios by preventing glass doors and windows from shattering, keeping interiors safe from water and debris.

3. Water Elements

In areas prone to heavy rainfall and flooding, selecting materials that resist moisture damage is essential. Pressure-treated wood is an ideal option for decks and fences, as it withstands both moisture and insect damage. Non-porous pavers offer excellent drainage, reducing puddles and erosion. Gravel and soft mulch also absorb water effectively, which helps reduce runoff and soil erosion during heavy rains.

Designing Wind-Resistant Outdoor Structures

Building outdoor structures that withstand strong winds requires thoughtful design and engineering. The aim is to create spaces that blend aesthetics and function with resilience to high winds.

Low Profile Structures

Gazebos and decks, with their low profiles, offer reduced wind resistance, making them more stable during storms. These structures sit closer to the ground, minimizing wind drag and the potential for storm damage.

Choosing a gazebo or deck for your outdoor space involves considering how wind moves around the structure. Lower-profile designs avoid the wind-catching effect seen in taller installations. TurnKey Outdoor Designs can help you select the best options for your space.

Anchor Points

Anchoring is important for any outdoor structure. Without secure anchors, even the sturdiest structures can be vulnerable to strong winds. Anchoring involves fixing structures directly to the ground or foundation to prevent them from lifting or shifting.

We recommend using heavy-duty materials for anchoring, so your outdoor spaces remain secure regardless of the weather.

Wind-Resistant Roofs

Sloped, aerodynamic roofs handle wind more effectively, as they allow it to flow smoothly over them. For those living in hurricane-prone areas, these roof styles enhance safety without compromising design, blending resilience with style.

Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping

Creating hurricane-resistant landscaping involves the strategic placement and selection of landscaping elements that can withstand severe hurricane conditions.

Tree Selection

• Deep-Rooted Trees: Choose trees with deep roots for better hurricane resistance, as they withstand high winds more effectively.
• Native Plants: Opt for native plants, which are generally well-suited for storm-prone areas.
• Resilient Tree Types: Select resilient trees like live oaks and bald cypress, which add durability and visual appeal to your landscape.

Plant Placement

• Windward Positioning: Position trees and shrubs strategically to shield outdoor areas from strong winds.
• Barrier Creation: Place trees on the windward side to create a natural barrier, protecting buildings and outdoor spaces.
• Proximity to Home: Ensure trees are not too close to the home to prevent damage if they fall, yet close enough to block winds effectively.

Permeable Surfaces

• Water Drainage: Use permeable materials for patios and walkways, allowing water to drain through and reducing flooding risks.
• Durability and Runoff Management: Permeable pavers or gravel offer durability, manage water runoff effectively, and maintain the polished appearance of your yard.

Waterproofing and Flood Protection

Waterproofing and flood protection help maintain the integrity of outdoor structures. Applying specialized materials and methods prevents water infiltration and reduces flood risks.

• Elevation Techniques: Elevating patios and outdoor kitchens protects them from floodwaters. Raising these areas by a few feet can shield your investment from storm surges.
• Drainage Systems: French drains are excellent for managing water flow, redirecting rain away from your property and preventing pooling. Installing them around your yard helps ensure rainwater flows where it should.
• Water-Resistant Furniture: Selecting durable materials for outdoor furniture is a smart approach. Aluminum and synthetic wicker withstand harsh weather, resisting damage from rain and saltwater, while retaining their appearance and stability over time.

Preparing Outdoor Furniture and Accessories for Storms

When severe weather approaches, it’s wise to secure outdoor furniture and accessories. This includes assessing items such as chairs, tables, cushions, and decor to ensure they’re properly secured or stored.

Portable Furniture

Lightweight furniture simplifies pre-storm preparations. Chairs and tables that are easy to move can be stored quickly, preventing them from turning into projectiles during high winds.

Choosing pieces with dual functions, such as storage benches that keep cushions dry, helps streamline storm prep and protect accessories.

Secure Anchors

Hurricane straps and anchors work well for items that can’t be moved, like pergolas or fixed outdoor kitchens. Securing these structures lowers the risk of damage from falling trees or high winds.

Adding ground anchors for swings or gazebos provides added security, keeping these features in place and reducing potential damage.

Protective Covers

Waterproof covers shield furniture from rain and dirt, protecting wood from moisture damage and preventing grills and fire pits from rusting. Custom-fit covers are a practical choice to fully protect outdoor furniture from harsh weather.

Build a Storm-Ready Outdoor Oasis

Transforming your outdoor space into a weather-resistant haven combines comfort with resilience. By incorporating features like hurricane-rated pergolas and wind-resistant materials, you create a solid foundation that enhances both safety and style.

Thoughtful choices in materials and design make it possible to enjoy your outdoor spaces without compromising on durability, even in storm-prone areas.

Your hurricane-prepared retreat is well within reach, bringing peace of mind and timeless style to your backyard. Call TurnKey Outdoor Designs today to start planning, and let us help you craft an outdoor space that withstands the elements while looking its best.