Habitat for Humanity builds fortified home against hurricanes

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Women from UNCW volunteered with Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity to help build the organization’s first fortified home against hurricanes and wind storms.

“A lot of damage that we had in this area was due to roofs that ended up taking on water," said Kerry Celestini, Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity communications coordinator. “So were look to prevent that.”

Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity partnered up with NC Sea Grant to construct these wind-resistant homes that should, in the long run, save homeowners money. The first home is being built on Athens Lane.

“We’re doing more nailing and adding an extra barrier beneath the shingles that will help us prevent water damage from future storms,” Celestini explained.

She also says these small changes can decrease homeowners’ insurance policy premiums and make sure that in the event of another storm like Florence, homes won’t suffer as much damage.

“The measures that we are taking are pretty simple measures, and we think it’s probably something that a lot of homeowners can do at a very minimal cost," Celestini said. "We think it’s a cost effective way to help our future home buyers to help maintain their homes, and keep them in the quality they need them to be.”

Habitat for Humanity plans to build future homes with the same fortified qualifications against wind and water.

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