Texas has a coastline with the Gulf of Mexico to the southeast, which is a hurricane-prone area. While Texas is partly in a designated catastrophe area, people living near the coast should take extra steps to build hurricane-resistant homes for protection against hurricane damage.
The deadliest natural disaster that Texas withstood was in the 1900s during the Galveston hurricane. In fact, some of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history have impacted Texas. That’s why homes near the coast must adhere to the many many requirements of the Hurricane Tie and Strap Code for Texas.
Hurricane Tie and Strap Code
The hurricane strap code is a set of requirements that must be strictly met to prepare a structure for hurricanes using physical strip or tie connections to secure the building from wind damage. These codes vary from location to location but are put in place by state or local governments.
Hurricane straps and ties are metal devices that help secure a structure’s roof, walls, and windows during high winds. These ties and straps will help your home survive 140 mph (223 kph) winds.
The Hurricane Tie and Strap Code for Texas
- Homes near the coast should have hurricane ties installed.
- All homes must have a minimum of 8d nails (galvanized or made of stainless steel) for attaching the straps and ties.
- If the house is west of Texas State Highway 146, it must be able to withstand Category 2 winds.
- Areas east of Highway 146 have stricter laws.
- No ties or straps may have fewer than three nails, which must be corrosion-free and have no more than a 12-inch space between them and the truss.
- If you live east of Texas State Highway 146 and decide to DIY, you will need to get an inspection to ensure you meet the criteria for building standards.
If your home doesn’t have hurricane ties or straps fitted, you can talk to a professional or a builder who has the expertise and the necessary tools to do so. While it’s possible to install them yourself, you must follow the number of ties or straps needed and all the necessary guidelines. If you live in a high wind zone (90 to 160+ mph), adhering to your state’s hurricane tie and strap codes is a must. You can have peace of mind knowing that your home is secured and protected against hurricane winds and flood water damage if there is any, which is significantly reduced.
Hurricane ties and straps are vital parts of hurricane preparedness. By meeting all the requirements and taking extra steps to increase the overall resistance of your home, you can ensure that your home is ready for the next hurricane season and other natural disasters.
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