The Business of Hurricanes

       So when you think hurricane, business is not what comes to mind.  I think of the big swirly mass heading towards Florida on the national news weather.  I think of the devastation of the last huge hurricane disaster: Hurricane Katrina.  I never consider the people who are working to make structures stronger to resist the hurricane winds, or the factories producing aluminum pool enclosures and hurricane shutters.  However, this week I would like to acknowledge that aspect of business and natural disasters.
       To an Ohioan like myself a hurricane shutter means very little. In South Florida, it th ey have become permanent, and removable, fixtures on most homes.  This simple addition provides protection to windows and doors from the dangerous and deadly winds produced by hurricanes.
      Production, sale,and installation of these shutters is a profitable business in hurricane prone areas.  Small business and corporations are both in the business of hurricanes and prevention.  In addition, insurance companies get a hand in the action by offering discounts for fixtures such as these that prevent damage when the storm comes.  For a list of different types of hurricane shutters and descriptions go to: http://www.sunsentinel.com/news/broward/sfl-hc-shutterguide,0,4823608.htmlstory 
            In my research I came across the "HurriQuake" nail, produced by Bostitch.  This new type of roofing nail claims to withstand winds up to 160 m.p.h.  The cost is higher than traditional nails, but the benefits in structural security could outweigh the costs in the long run.  This product innovation is an excellent  example of how companies are looking to improve the traditional and come up with new ways to build things better to withstand natural disasters.
        Though this only scratches the surface of business behind hurricane proof buildings, the concept is one that will always be needed as long people live in hurricane prone areas.  It takes businesses, large and small, to make structures safer and less prone to destruction when  mother nature comes knocking.

Metal Hurricane Shudder

Patent drawing for Bostitch HurriQuake Nail