Building a custom home in South Florida is vastly different from building in the rest of the country.  The Florida Building Code, the governing body that regulates construction, has stringent requirements for homes built in South Florida.  In fact, some South Florida code requirements even differ across the state.  Structural requirements, energy codes and architectural components all contribute to the ways in which building in South Florida can increase and save on costs while providing a comfortable home in which to live.

Code requirements allow for specific designs that are conducive to the warm weather, humidity and storm events.  Including the most current construction technologies and methods can contribute to increased construction costs, but will pay off in the long run.  

Today’s custom homes include updated technology to protect homes from storms while saving energy by including building components that are more efficient.   These aspects can also allow for an increased resale value.

Tip 1:  Code requirements for building in South Florida

A builder is often approached with ideas for building materials that may be suitable for the rest of the country, but not for South Florida.  Recognizing this, an informed owner can have a realistic idea of what construction costs will be.  Impact windows, insulation, roofing materials, and energy efficient appliances used and required in South Florida construction can contribute to higher budgets.  However, if used properly, they will benefit the owner for years to come.

Structural Requirements

• Concrete vs. Wood – South Florida structures are built with hurricanes in mind.  The devastating impact of hurricanes and the forces they produce demand that structures be built to last through them.  Homes in South Florida are built with concrete block, columns and beams as opposed to wood framing.  Roof structures can be built from wood; however, thorough engineering is employed to be resistant to hurricane forces.

• Impact Windows – In addition to providing a safer structure the Florida Building Code requires certain exterior windows and doors to be impact rated and pressure tested.

Tip 2:  Energy Efficiency

Code requirements in South Florida are more stringent with respect to energy efficiency.  New technology is used to mitigate the impact of energy consumption and contribute to lower energy costs.

Methods for Energy Efficient Homes

• Structure – Building homes using concrete block and using impact windows and doors assures that the building envelope is also resistant to radiant energy from the sun.  The combined effect of block and insulation “shields” the home from heat gain and loss thus providing a more energy efficient structure.
• Insulation – Having the right instulation installed in a custom home will contribute to the resistance of thermal heat gain and loss.  Using foam on the interior of the block walls and/or the core of the block is one method that achieves this.  Installing proper foam or fiberglass insulation in the attic also contributes to energy efficiency.
• Appliances – Installing mechanical systems, refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, lighting, washers and dryers that are more efficient at energy consumption are both required and necessary for a home to be more energy efficient and comply with the building code.

With these tips in mind while designing and building a custom home in South Florida you will have a realistic idea of construction costs while also contributing to the protection of the environment.

For more information on how to build in South Florida contact us to discuss at 954-496-0762 or email us at jared@ubackconstruction.com