Can I build a house with brick foundation in florida?

Question

I am trying to build a house in Florida but I want my foundation to be built with brick. What other ways can I build my house to make it hurricane-proof or close to hurricane-proof? Thanks. What are some websites where I can go that shows pictures of model homes in florida. Thanks

Answer 1

I recommend that you consult a licensed civil engineer who is familiar with the local area where you want to build.

Tell the civil engineer that you want to build a house that is hurricane proof.

I do not recommend websites for that information.

I live in Los Gatos California. Several years ago I had a house built in the Los Gatos mountains. That is the area that suffered the 1989 earthquake.

I told the civil engineer that I wanted a house that was earthquake proof.

I chose a civil engineer who had engineered houses built in the area prior to 1989 that survived the 1989 earthquake.

I wanted a civil engineer with a successful track record dealing with that kind of problem

When you are interviewing engineers I recommend that you look for engineers who have actually designed houses that have survived hurricanes in your area.

Answer 2

foundation should be of concrete and usually is a concrete slab... you can use brick for facing or part of architectural design. But most house in Florida use the new hurricane building regulations with concrete block with stucco over. Remember that your windows and roof have to meet certain criteria for wind resistance in this area also depending on the house plans and it's location.

Please get a engineer from this area who knows the requirements for building a good house in your area

Answer 3

It depends on the building codes in the area in which you want to build. But most start with cement slab, you could use brick walls, and steel girders, or engineered framing. Most cities can provide you with a list of hurricane guidelines for building.

Answer 4

Florida's building code is online. It is a bit difficult to read.

I believe that brick foundation is prohibited and that you must use reinforced, poured concrete of defined grade.

The depth into the ground and type of construction [piers, continuous outline, etc.] is partly dependent on the type of soil in the area and height above water level/nearby water. You'll need to consult someone experienced in the trade, likely in yuor area, for specific details.


GL

Answer 5

The building codes have changed thoughout most of Florida to meet certain hurricaine standards. Look for a builder who has been building in FLA for a number of years they will be familiar with the new codes. Look at the hurricaine proof windows-I went through Wilma with them and while they were hit with Barrel tiles over and over again there was NO BREAKAGE! I was floored! I didn't believe they would standup to hurricaine force winds but, they did! Your insurance company may also have some suggestions for you. Best of luck!

Answer 6

A brick foundation isn't appropriate in a hurricane prone area. (To be honest, brick isn't a very good foundation material anywhere.) In a hurricane prone area, only poured, reinforced concrete, properly tied to poured footings will suffice.

Consult with the local building department for the required specs in your area.

Answer 7

I don't know about brick, but log siding shrinks and expands with the seasons, requiring regular re-caulking between the boards. All of that movement provides places for insects to get under the surface. Unless it's anchored on securely, it wants to crack and buckle, too. It's hard to keep a finish on log siding, especially if you want a clear look. Log siding looks great, but it's pretty flimsy stuff compared to every other siding material I can think of except maybe vinyl siding.

Answer 8

No house is hurricane proof...if there is enough wind, your house is gone.

Houses in hurricane's come apart at the roof first, not the foundation.