A recent photograph of destruction left by Hurricane Milton’s wind tells the story: An entire roof section on a residential complex in Bradenton, Florida – including rafters and ceiling joists – was ripped off, exposing people’s abodes and belongings to wind, rain and flying debris.
Experts say the near-catastrophic failure, resulting in hefty insurance claims, was possible because the structure, likely built before more-recent Florida building code requirements were put in place, did not have enough roof-to-wall connections, such as steel hurricane straps and clips.
The problem is, explained Mike Silvers with the Florida Roofing & Sheetmetal Contractors Association (FRSA), finding crews to install those connectors – especially now, after back-to-back hurricanes – is easier said than done. Florida statutes, building codes, and contractor licensing rules do not specifically allow roof contractors to install the