By Tom Smith, Owner of GHD Construction Services
GHD COASTAL HOMES: TIME TO THINK ABOUT HURRICANE SEASON AGAIN
… keep that “Big Bad Wolf” from destroying a home. Our wolf is the potential Florida hurricane. We all know it’s coming, but we can’t predict the year we will experience it.
In past articles, I have written about what new homes offer today with the increased Florida and Federal Building codes. As an industry in Florida, we are constructing homes that meet or exceed the 150mph wind speeds, to insure the best amount of safety and security for new homes. Some homes can be retrofitted to add some of these features, yet other homes remain susceptible to high tides and severe water damage. What can be done today for the homes along our beautiful coastal island communities?
Everyone is now aware that hurricane resistant windows and doors should be a “must” for any home. Those are the areas that will be first to fail when the high wind and water comes our way. Although pilings cannot be installed in existing homes with any practicality, they are very helpful in keeping the stability of the home sound, especially along the beaches. Then as I have mentioned in the past, the most important item for homes is that they are raised above FEMA standards, to keep the flood waters from ruining the home and furnishings. Sorry, but as I see homes playing the game of FEMA’s 50% Rule, I can’t help but wonder why families are investing hundreds of thousands of dollars to re-build a home on grade. Not a good investment or decision!
Many of our home customers today are inquiring about whole house generators for their new homes. My wife and I are personally installing one in my new home, as it makes sense to protect against power failure, especially if you live in beach communities where power is the most likely to fail during a storm. A natural or propane gas system that fuels the generator can actually have enough power for the entire home, including air conditioning. I’m told by the gas company, that they do not turn off the gas after a storm, as it is necessary for hospitals and other first responder needs.
Sure, a gas generator can be temporarily used from your garage for the refrigerator and a few lights, but having the entire home uninterrupted after a storm is a major plus.
As I write these thoughts on building a strong home, it’s funny, but I remember one of the favorite books that my mother read to me was the “3 Little Pigs”. I don’t know why this is in my memory 67 years later, but I guess it rang a bell in terms of building a home substantial enough to keep that “Big Bad Wolf” from destroying a home. Our wolf is the potential Florida hurricane. We all know it’s coming, but we can’t predict the year we will experience it. If you are considering remodeling or building a new home, maybe some of the items listed above might give you cause to reflect on what items you want to install.
GHD Construction Services, Inc. has constructed 6,500+ homes since 1971. If you have any questions pertaining to new home construction, feel free to call Todd at {813) 956-8633, or email to: tnegoshian@ghdcsi.com. NOW OFFERING VIRTUAL HOME TOURS: Visit our website at www.GHDCoastalHomes.com to see the “Key West” and “Bahama Winds” homes.