Are Sarasota and its nearby barrier islands different from other Florida cities when it comes to flood risk? We looked at the data to find out, and the numbers tell a clear story: Sarasota County faces significant flood exposure, especially on its coastal barrier islands.
Are Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg different from other Florida cities when it comes to flood risk?
We asked that same question. So we looked at the data.
What we found is simple. Yes, they are different. And the numbers explain why.
FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program set rules for how buildings in flood zones must be protected. When people ask if a flood barrier “meets FEMA,” they usually mean it follows the technical standards required for dry floodproofing.
Many flood barrier companies take pride in having FM approval for their flood planks. But what is it, and should you actually ask for it from your flood barrier installer? Let’s break it down.
Flood planks are strong panels that stack together to block water from entering a home or building. But not all aluminum is the same. The type of aluminum used makes a big difference in strength, durability, and long term performance. Below is a simple guide to help you understand what flood planks are made from and which material is best.
Recently, an article titled “Thinking About Installing Flood Panels? Don’t.” was published on beachtalkradionews.com. The article discusses flood panels used on residential homes and raises concerns about legality, safety, permitting, and FEMA floodplain rules. It suggests that flood panels may be unsafe, may trap water inside homes, may not be allowed by FEMA, and may lead to code violations for homeowners.
Many Florida homeowners and business owners choose flood protection products from large national brands thinking they are getting the best solution. One of the most common products is a national brand aluminum plank flood barrier. These systems can work well in many parts of the United States. But Florida’s climate is very different from much of the rest of the country, and that difference matters a lot when it comes to how well flood protection performs in the long run.
Flood risk is a reality across Florida, and questions about prevention and funding come up long before a storm is in the forecast. Whether you are a property owner, contractor, or local decision maker, understanding which flood mitigation grants and programs exist can save time, reduce risk, and support better planning. We have compiled a current list of state, federal, and local flood prevention resources in Florida to keep handy when evaluating your options.
Winter is a beautiful time in the Southeast, especially in Florida. The sun feels softer, the air finally gives you a break, and hurricane season fades into the background. This calm window is exactly when flood protection should be addressed. Once storm season gets close, property owners rush at the same time, materials become scarce, and installers suddenly have no availability. Before you think about the best solution for your property, there are a few things almost nobody explains clearly.
Flood barriers are supposed to keep your home dry. Simple, right? Well, not all barriers are created equal. Some can fail faster than an ice cream cone in the Florida sun. Here’s a story that should make every homeowner pause before trusting just any kit.
