Prepare Your Home Before the Storm Strikes

Spring in Missouri brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and unfortunately, the start of tornado season. In Kearney and surrounding areas, tornadoes are a real threat, with peak activity occurring between March and June. If you’re a homeowner, now is the time to make sure your house is ready to withstand severe storms.

Whether you’re reinforcing an existing home or considering new construction, building with safety in mind can make all the difference. Let’s explore practical ways to protect your home, as well as why ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) construction is one of the best defenses against tornadoes.

Tornado-Resistant Home Improvements

Even if your home wasn’t originally designed with tornado resistance in mind, there are several upgrades you can make to strengthen your property before severe weather strikes.

1. Reinforce Your Roof and Garage Door

The roof and garage door are two of the most vulnerable parts of your home in high winds. If these fail, the wind pressure can cause catastrophic damage.

Consider:

• Installing hurricane clips or straps to keep your roof attached to the walls.
• Reinforcing garage doors with braces or choosing a wind-rated model.
• Inspecting shingles and replacing any that are loose or damaged.

2. Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors

Standard glass windows and weak doors can shatter in high winds, turning debris into dangerous projectiles.

Consider upgrading to:

• Impact-resistant windows that can withstand strong winds and flying debris
• Steel or fiberglass doors with heavy-duty deadbolts
• Storm shutters to protect windows from wind and debris

3. Secure Outdoor Structures & Landscaping

High winds can turn loose objects into flying hazards.

Make sure to:

• Anchor sheds, playsets, and patio furniture.
• Trim tree branches that could snap and damage your home.
• Store outdoor items indoors before a storm.

The Ultimate Tornado Defense

While traditional homes rely on wood framing, ICF construction uses reinforced concrete encased in foam insulation, making it one of the strongest, most storm-resistant building methods available. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Superior Wind Resistance

ICF walls are solid concrete, meaning they can withstand winds of up to 200 mph or more. In comparison, wood-frame homes are much more likely to sustain structural damage in a tornado.

2. Debris Protection

During a tornado, flying debris is one of the biggest dangers. ICF walls do not crack or break apart the way wood or brick can, providing an extra layer of safety for your family.

1. Fire and Water Resistance

Tornadoes often bring lightning strikes, fires, and heavy rainfall. Unlike wood-frame homes, ICF walls:

• Are highly fire-resistant, offering up to a four-hour fire rating.
• Do not absorb water, preventing mold and rot.
• Provide superior insulation, helping keep your home energy efficient year-round.

4. Long-Term Value and Strength

ICF homes are built to last for generations, requiring less maintenance and offering higher resale value. With Missouri’s unpredictable weather, investing in an ICF home can provide peace of mind and long-term savings.

Should You Build an ICF Home?

If you’re considering new construction, building with ICF is one of the best ways to protect your home from tornadoes and severe storms. At 221 Construction, we specialize in ICF home building, helping homeowners create safe, durable, and energy-efficient homes.



If you’d like to learn more about reinforcing your home or building with ICF, we’d love to help.