Florida’s unique geography makes us more susceptible to the effects of climate change. For example, sea level rise and hotter temperatures fuel stronger hurricanes. These climate risks are worsening over time, so builders are turning to resilient design in residential construction.
NOAA predicts Atlantic storms will intensify over the coming decade with back-to-back seasons of category five hurricanes. Unfortunately, many homes aren’t built to resist extreme weather events. To protect against the coming tempests, we need to construct houses that can withstand these climate risks. For example, resilient homes are protected against the elements and are less dependent on municipal utilities. The resilient design process includes assessing climate risks, selecting design parameters, and identifying resilient strategies.
Architects and builders rely on resilient design to guard against the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures and natural disasters. Self-reliant residential construction can lessen property destruction and power outages. Likewise, sustainable building practices reduce the carbon footprint, hopefully slowing global warming. When builders incorporate reinforced structures, of-grid utilities, and ideal location choices, they craft houses that stand up against climate change.
The first step in resilient design in residential construction is identifying the local climate risks. We already see an increase in hurricane intensity and wind speed. On top of that, tropical storms are becoming slower and wetter than in the past. This means more rainfall and flooding. Intense storms, rising sea levels, and extreme heat waves put Floridians at risk. According to the Florida Health Department, “Climate variability, in combination with a large and diverse resident and tourist population and complex natural ecosystems, influences the health of people in Florida.” So, we need robust residential construction that can recover quickly from emergencies. Likewise, new homes need redundant sources of electricity and water.
Once the builder and architect have assessed the risks, they can outline the project parameters to account for climate change. First and foremost, the structure has to function as a home. The best protections are useless if the house doesn’t meet the needs of everyday life. Then, the builder must take location into account. For example, coastal property doesn’t lend well to resiliency because of sea level rise and storm surges. Likewise, we should avoid building in low-lying areas subject to flooding. In addition, urban areas have the heat island effect to contend with.
Robust building plans start with solid structures that withstand strong winds and flooding. Likewise, resilient design in residential constructions minimizes reliance on external resources. For example, houses have backup systems for extended power outages and water contamination. Resiliency also means rapid recovery, so designs use materials that dry quickly in case of flooding. Planning for heat waves includes efficient air conditioning as well as passive cooling strategies such as tight building envelopes, extra wall and roof insulation, and Low-E windows.
A self-sufficient house can withstand and recover from a crisis. We can build better homes with sturdy structures, backup power, and safe locations. When incorporating resilient design in residential construction, you need builders who understand the risks and strategies in Florida. Bettencourt Construction can assemble a team of experts with the best skill sets for your project. Give us a call at 727-329-8803.
