Standing up to Spring Storms
Springtime is upon us which means it's finally time for patio dinners, walks around the neighborhood, fun in the flower beds and... storm warnings. Although the spring weather can be a welcome relief from the cold winter months, many times it feels like we are always under a weather advisory and prepping to bear a storm.
Our company was founded to meet the housing need in our community after the Joplin tornado and we've worked hard to help calm homeowner's anxieties during this time of year and make their homes more secure. Here are 3 ways we go above and beyond to make your home safer during bad weather.
1. Hurricane Screws
In the wake of the Joplin Tornado of 2011, our company found that homes utilizing 6 inch hurricane screws were substantially more sturdy in high wind conditions than others. These screws are used to secure the frame of the home to the engineered trusses in the roofing system. Every single truss in the perimeter of our homes is reinforced with these 6 inch hurricane screws.
See the orange hurricane screw in action here:
2. Mudsill Straps
The second way we secure your home is by utilizing mudsill straps in the foundation. Mudsill straps, also called mudsill anchors, are made of sheet steel and designed to keep the home from shifting under heavy loads or in the event of seismic events.
These straps are distributed around the perimeter of the home, tightly fastening the baseplate of the frame to the sturdy concrete slab. One side of the strap is inserted into the slab when concrete is poured, while the other remains free until the home is framed. Once framing is complete, the straps are wrapped around the baseplate before being secured with bolts.
3. Anchor Bolts
In addition to the mudsill straps, Schuber Mitchell incorporates 7 inch anchor bolts into their framing system. These large bolts are placed every 6 feet around the perimeter of the home and if a new baseplate is laid, the bolts will be spaced just 12 inches apart for extra security. They also hold the baseplate tightly to the concrete foundation.
Check out the photo of an anchor bolt in use!
Are you ready to have peace of mind in your home?
