The increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes and tropical storms in the United States over recent decades has resulted in stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and massive storm surges that can leave homes devastated. Siding is torn off. Windows are shattered. Doors are blown in. A standing structure can be destroyed in a matter of minutes.
For homeowners in coastal regions, these circumstances are far from uncommon. They’re unfortunately becoming the new normal. The southernmost states are not the only victims, either. For example, Hurricane Helene struck far inland in the mountainous region of Asheville, North Carolina, in September 2024, causing widespread flooding and devastation.
In areas prone to hurricanes and high winds, the criteria for choosing cladding must go beyond aesthetics, making product selection a critical decision for homeowners that are seeking to protect their property from destructive weather. Traditional siding options may fail under extreme weather and winds, leading to costly damage that compromises the safety of the structure.
When strong winds strike, a home’s exterior takes the brunt of the impact, and siding is the first line of defense. Choosing a wind-resistant siding solution is critical, particularly in hurricane-prone regions.
A Viable Composite Solution
One material that has proven its value in high-wind areas is Everlast® advanced composite siding.
Unlike traditional siding materials, Everlast siding is impervious to water absorption and showcases impressive wind resistance qualities. It also protects against rot and insect damage, eliminating concerns of peeling, flaking, rotting, or cracking. Its durability and longevity can be attributed to its rigid, mineral composite substrate incorporating C Core® material technology and polymer resins, which makes it more durable than other materials. In addition, Everlast siding features a UV-stable 100% acrylic capstock that allows the product to maintain its beautiful, authentic wood grain finish even after decades of weather exposure.
From a standards perspective, Everlast complies with most residential and light commercial building codes throughout the United States. This includes:
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DBPR (Florida Building Code) #FL22980 - Florida Building Code (FBC) from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation: Everlast achieved approval after undergoing durability, surface burning, weather resistance, and wind-load resistance tests. The FBC is based on national model codes, primarily the International Building Code, but includes Florida-specific amendments to address unique environmental challenges such as high winds, wind-borne debris, elevated flood risk, and the effects of heat and humidity.
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Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) #EC-107: In 2018, Everlast siding received approval from the Texas Department of Insurance after an evaluation of wind loads. TDI requirements are similar to Miami-Dade County and Florida Building Code standards, which were updated following Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita for areas along the Texas Gulf Coast. These codes reflect the larger standards of the International Building Code and International Residential Code.
Everlast siding – as detailed in the Code Compliance Research Report CCCR-0201 for Florida Building Code – is designed for wind resistance with specific ratings that vary based on the installation method. For instance, the 4.5” lap siding can withstand winds up to 198 mph when installed with screws and 175 mph when fastened with nails. This makes the product an exceptional choice in areas prone to heavy winds and storms such as those along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.
Proof in Punta Gorda
Like many towns across the state of Florida, Punta Gorda has been the scene of significant destruction over the years from numerous tropical storms and hurricanes.
During severe weather in Dec. 2021, the vinyl siding was torn off the Boudreau family home. When it came time to rebuild, the Boudreaus sought to install a more durable product than the vinyl siding. They used the opportunity to replace the home’s entire exterior with a more robust product that could better withstand future weather damage. After considering fiber cement siding, the homeowners ultimately selected Everlast siding due to its strength and inherent wind resistance qualities.
Fast forward to Oct. 2022, and Hurricane Ian made landfall in southern Florida. Neighboring homes to the Boudreau’s property that were also in the storm’s path experienced significant damage to the siding, gutters, roofing materials, and more. However, the newly installed Everlast siding on the Boudreau residence withstood Hurricane Ian and the severe weather that came with it, including heavy rain and winds that peaked at 155 miles per hour.
“After Hurricane Ian, neighbors were even more impressed by the product. At first, it generated attention because of its appearance. Now it has demonstrated durability and performance under the harshest weather conditions. The product speaks for itself, and our home is the proof,” said homeowner Bob Boudreau.
What Makes It Different?
Starting with its extrusion process, Everlast siding possesses superior dimensional strength compared to traditional siding materials. That coupled with its innovative EZStack® design creates a tight, stable connection between each plank. Installed, the siding system provides exceptional resistance to wind and extreme weather.
Beyond the system’s design that promises sturdiness on the wall, Everlast siding is made from a unique composition of inorganic materials, polymer resins, and acrylic colorants. This creates a dense material that is significantly more rigid and durable than vinyl, fiber cement, or engineered wood siding. Its formula also offers exceptional durability against the elements, effectively resisting moisture, rot, warping, and corrosion. This, in turn, ensures the structure remains intact should it face an extreme weather event.
Weathering the Storm
The home is the most prized assets for most Americans.
As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense – especially in coastal and hurricane-prone regions – the importance of choosing resilient building materials cannot be overstated. Homeowners can no longer rely on traditional siding solutions that may fail under extreme weather. Everlast advanced composite siding provides more than just curb appeal, delivering proven performance when it matters most. Backed by rigorous codes and standards, engineered for wind resistance up to 198 mph, and validated by withstanding storms like Hurricane Ian, Everlast offers peace of mind and long-term protection.
When defending your home is of upmost importance, Everlast siding is the smart choice.
