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If you’re a Florida homeowner looking to protect your home from hurricanes, one question you’ve likely asked is: Should I install hurricane straps or get a new roof altogether?

In this post, we break down the pros and cons of hurricane straps, their benefits for insurance, how much they cost, and when a full roof replacement is the better choice—especially here in Palm Beach County.

What Are Hurricane Straps?

Hurricane straps (also called clips or ties) are metal connectors that secure your roof trusses or rafters to your home’s walls. They help prevent your roof from lifting off during high winds—something that’s critical when storms hit coastal areas like Boynton Beach.

They are typically installed during new construction or retrofitted through the attic or soffit area.

Florida Building Code Requirements

After the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, Florida updated its building code in 2001. If your home was built after that, it likely has hurricane straps installed.

But if your home was built before 2001—and hasn’t had a roof replacement since—it may not meet current code.

Good news: Florida allows you to retrofit straps without replacing the entire roof, and you may even qualify for insurance discounts when you do.

Benefits of Hurricane Straps in Palm Beach

• Stronger Roof-Wall Connection: Improves wind uplift resistance.
• Storm Resilience: Adds protection against Category 3+ hurricane winds.
• Insurance Discounts: May qualify you for savings through Florida’s Wind Mitigation program.
• Affordable Upgrade: Especially if done during a roof replacement.

Do Hurricane Straps Lower Insurance in Florida?

Yes. If installed correctly, hurricane straps can reduce your homeowners insurance premium through wind mitigation discounts.

Many insurance carriers in Florida offer 10%–25% savings for homes with reinforced roof-to-wall connections.

To qualify, you’ll need a Wind Mitigation Inspection Report submitted to your insurer—Searbreeze Roofing can help with this.

Hurricane Straps vs. New Roof: Which Is Better?

Here’s how to decide:

If your roof is showing signs of wear—cracking shingles, leaks, missing tiles—a full replacement with hurricane straps may offer more value and peace of mind.

How Much Do Hurricane Straps Cost in Florida?

Here’s a general pricing guide:

• Retrofitting straps only:
  $850 – $2,500 depending on access and home size.
• New roof with straps installed:
  Roofing + strap installation starts around $9,000–$18,000 depending on materials (shingle, metal, tile) and square footage.

If you’re already planning a roof replacement, adding straps is highly cost-effective—especially with the insurance savings factored in.

Can You Install Straps Without a New Roof?

Yes—Florida’s building code allows hurricane strap retrofits without replacing your roof, as long as they’re installed by a licensed contractor and meet local inspection standards.

However, keep in mind:

• Retrofitting may require attic entry or soffit removal.
• Not all homes have the access or clearance needed.
• A full roof replacement offers better long-term protection.

When to Contact a Roofing Contractor

You should request a free inspection if:

• Your roof is 15+ years old.
• You’re not sure if you have hurricane straps.
• You’ve never had a wind mitigation inspection.
• You want to lower insurance premiums or protect against storm damage.

At Searbreeze Roofing, we provide honest guidance. If your roof is in good shape, we’ll recommend hurricane straps only. If not, we’ll show you options for affordable roof replacement.

Free Estimate: Hurricane Straps

Palm Beach County homeowners—don’t wait for the next storm warning.

Let’s strengthen your home with the right upgrade for your budget.
Call us at (561) 583-5513 or Request Your Free Inspection today.