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If you’re renovating, re-roofing, or building new, consider these upgrades to make your home stronger against hurricanes.

1. When reroofing, install a FORTIFIED Roof™

Cost: $9,000 – $12,000*

Time: Consult with a FORTIFIED roofer

* Based on a 2,000–3,000 square-foot house.

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the weather. Choosing a FORTIFIED Roof will help keep your roof on and keep water out during hurricanes.

Based on more than 20 years of scientific research and real-world testing by IBHS, FORTIFIED building standards strengthen homes against severe weather, reducing the risk of property damage and financial loss. Learn more at fortifiedhome.org/roof.

2. Replace your garage door with a wind-rated door


Cost: $750 – $2,000 material cost per wind-resistant garage door.
Installation costs are not included and are dependent on geographical location.

Your garage door is likely the most vulnerable part of your home to wind damage because it is typically the largest opening in a home.

If a standard garage door buckles from the pressure of the wind, the roof is likely to be damaged from wind now entering the garage and then the damage to the home is severe. Replacing a garage door with one that is rated to withstand high winds is your best option.

3. Upgrade to impact-resistant skylights

Cost: $500–$1,000*

Time: 4-8 Hours

*Assuming 2–3 per home.

Stronger skylights better protect your home.

Replace existing skylights with impact-resistant versions to reduce the likelihood of damage.

4. Upgrade to impact-rated windows

Cost: $5,375*

Time: 4-8 Hours

*Estimated at less than $27 per square foot installed.

Stronger windows can better withstand high winds and flying debris. 

Look for windows labeled as impact resistant.

5. Purchase hurricane shutters

Cost: $2,350*

Time: 4-8 Hours

*Estimate for covering ten windows (201 square feet).

Hurricane protection corrugated metal panels installed on tropical home

Shutters can protect your windows and help keep out damaging winds. 

Plan ahead and purchase hurricane shutters (code-conforming aluminum paneling) to cover your windows if a hurricane nears. Find what’s right for your home with the IBHS Opening Protection Guide.

Note: Plywood should only be used in place of shutters as a last-minute resort when tropical weather is imminent. Additionally, taping windows provides no protection and wastes time.

6. Get a whole-home generator

Cost: $4,000–$8,000*

Time: 1-3 Hours

Residential house natural gas backup generator. Choosing a location for house standby generator.

A generator will keep you prepared for a power outage year-round. 

Purchase a whole–home generator to keep your power on, regardless of the weather.

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