Preserving Architectural Integrity with West Shore Construction

Florida’s historic homes represent more than just property—they are irreplaceable pieces of architectural, cultural, and local history. From early coastal cottages to Mediterranean Revival and mid-century designs, these homes require a specialized approach to hurricane protection that prioritizes preservation as much as protection.

West Shore Construction provides hurricane protection solutions designed specifically for historic homes, helping homeowners safeguard their property against severe weather while respecting architectural integrity and preservation requirements. Our approach focuses on non-invasive, reversible systems that deliver reliable storm protection without permanently altering the appearance of historic structures.

Why Historic Homes Require a Different Hurricane Protection Approach

Historic homes were built in an era before modern hurricane-resistant standards. While their craftsmanship and materials are often exceptional, many lack the structural protections required to withstand today’s hurricane-force winds and wind-borne debris.

At the same time, historic homes are often subject to:

• Local historic preservation ordinances

• Architectural review board approvals

• Restrictions on exterior modifications

• Limitations on permanent alterations

This creates a unique challenge: how to protect the home without compromising its historic character.

Common Challenges for Historic Homeowners

Historic homeowners often face limitations that modern properties do not, including:

• Prohibitions against permanent shutters or window replacements

• Restrictions on visible exterior hardware

• Requirements to preserve original window openings and trim

• Concerns about altering façade symmetry or detailing

Because of these constraints, many traditional hurricane protection systems are not appropriate or permitted for historic properties.

Hurricane Fabric: A Preservation-Friendly Solution for Historic Homes

Hurricane fabric is one of the most effective and preservation-compatible hurricane protection options available for historic homes. It provides strong storm defense while remaining temporary, reversible, and visually unobtrusive.

This makes hurricane fabric an ideal solution for historic properties throughout Clearwater, Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, and surrounding West Central Florida communities.

How Hurricane Fabric Protects Historic Homes

Hurricane fabric is engineered from high-strength, resin-coated materials designed to withstand intense wind pressure and wind-borne debris. Rather than resisting impact rigidly, the fabric absorbs and disperses energy, helping prevent windows and doors from being breached during a storm.

Key protection benefits include:

• Reducing the risk of window failure

• Preventing sudden pressure changes inside the home

• Limiting water intrusion and interior damage

• Protecting original architectural elements

Many hurricane fabric systems meet Miami-Dade County impact testing standards, ensuring reliable performance in severe storm conditions.

Preserving the Visual Integrity of Historic Architecture

One of the most important considerations for historic homeowners is maintaining the home’s original appearance. Hurricane fabric supports this goal in several ways:

• Deployable only when needed: Fabric is installed before a storm and removed afterward

• Minimal anchoring footprint: Anchors are small and discreet

• No permanent visual alteration: The home returns to its original appearance after removal

This approach allows homeowners to meet storm protection needs without violating preservation guidelines or altering defining architectural features.

Custom Fit for Unique Historic Structures

Historic homes often feature:

• Non-standard window sizes

• Arched or custom openings

• Decorative trim and detailing

• Porches, lanais, and unique elevations

West Shore Construction custom-fits hurricane fabric for each individual opening, ensuring proper coverage without compromising design details. Protection can be tailored for:

• Original windows

• Doors and French doors

• Porches and lanais

• Garage openings

• Specialty architectural features

Professional Installation with Preservation Awareness

Installing hurricane protection on a historic home requires precision and experience. Our team understands how to work within preservation guidelines while ensuring code-compliant protection.

Our process includes:

• Careful assessment of architectural features

• Discreet anchor placement planning

• Compliance with applicable building codes

• Respect for historic materials and finishes

For homeowners who prefer flexibility, we also offer custom pre-cut hurricane fabric kits with hardware and instructions.

Benefits of Hurricane Fabric for Historic Homes

Hurricane fabric offers a combination of protection and preservation that few systems can match:

• Non-invasive and reversible

• Lightweight and easy to deploy

• Cost-effective compared to permanent systems

• Minimal storage requirements

• Approved for high-impact testing standards

• Compatible with historic preservation requirements

For many historic homeowners, it represents the most practical balance between safety and stewardship.

Why Historic Homeowners Choose West Shore Construction

Protecting a historic home requires more than just materials—it requires understanding.

West Shore Construction offers:

• Decades of hurricane protection experience

• Florida State Certified Building Contractor credentials (LN CBC044653)

• Familiarity with preservation-sensitive installations

• Custom solutions rather than one-size-fits-all systems

• Clear communication and respectful project execution

We work with homeowners who value their property’s past while preparing it for Florida’s future weather realities.

Serving Clearwater & the Tampa Bay Area

We proudly provide hurricane protection solutions for historic homes throughout:

• Clearwater

• St. Petersburg

• Largo

• Tampa Bay

• Pinellas County

• Sarasota County

• Surrounding West Central Florida communities

If you’re unsure whether your home qualifies as historic or is subject to preservation guidelines, we’re happy to discuss options.

Schedule a Historic Home Hurricane Protection Consultation

Hurricane protection for historic homes requires thoughtful planning, experience, and the right solution. West Shore Construction is here to help you protect your home without compromising its character.

Call (727) 488-8182 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and explore hurricane protection options designed specifically for historic properties.

How to Get Started with Hurricane Protection for Your Historic Home

If you own a historic home in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, or any nearby Florida area, West Shore Construction is here to help protect your property with hurricane fabric. Choosing a certified contractor experienced in working with historic properties is essential to ensure both compliance with preservation laws and the effectiveness of your hurricane protection.

When you’re ready to explore hurricane protection for your antiquated home, contact West Shore Construction for a consultation. Our team is available to answer questions, provide estimates, and work with you to develop a custom solution that offers peace of mind while preserving the integrity of your home.

Hurricane protection for historic homes requires a specialized approach that balances the need for storm defense with respect for the property’s visual and cultural heritage. Hurricane fabric is the ideal solution for these properties, offering robust protection against the forces of a hurricane without altering the home’s appearance. Lightweight, economical, and compliant with preservation laws, hurricane fabric is a versatile option that helps maintain the legacy of Florida’s historic homes.

To learn more about protecting your historic home or to schedule a consultation, call West Shore Construction at (727) 488-8182 or contact us online. We look forward to helping you secure your home while preserving the architectural beauty that makes it unique.