Are there other construction choices besides the concrete block and wood framing found in typical Florida homes, old and new?
This summer, we got the opportunity to take a look at the options out there. Our Client was considering rebuilding their home on a barrier island and was open to exploring alternative construction options.
They had asked us about panelized wood construction, with which they had some familiarity. Imagine (mostly) building your home inside a factory, instead of out in the sun and rain, then transporting it by truck to your property and erecting it in a few days. Imagine having near zero waste from building the house, either. Here’s one example of panelization:
https://undecidedmf.com/the-simple-genius-of-a-prefabricated-house-my-net-zero-home-build/
3D Printing is also gaining some traction. We got to visit a house in Austin, Texas, last year, and the same company is building (printing) an entire neighborhood now. They use a proprietary concrete-like material and use steel or rebar inside the walls for support.
https://www.cnn.com/style/texas-3d-printed-home-icon/index.html
Another option is ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms), which are like large foam building blocks that are filled with rebar and concrete. You can use any type of siding or stucco on the outside, and drywall on the inside. There are several companies that produce the blocks, including a couple factories here in Florida. And an entire sub-industry of installers and contractors who are already familiar with the technique. Yes, there are ICF homes that have been built on beaches and have weathered some hurricanes.
We are familiar with SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) after having designed additions for 2 different Clients. These panels are foam insulation boards with a metal “skin” on each side (plywood is used Up North). When building the house, structural aluminum beams and posts are placed inside the walls where needed. Using SIPs for the ceiling-roof is great for a lightweight aesthetic with the full amount of insulation. And, again, use any type of siding or stucco on the walls, with shingles on the roof.
We also read about SCIPs (Structural Concrete Insulated Panels). A form of panelized construction, the foam insulation panels are about the size of plywood, with a metal mesh on both sides. Once erected on your property, the panels are coated with shotcrete inside and out for a solid, finished wall. Plumbing and electrical wiring can be run inside the wall through the foam.
We can’t wait to design your home using one of these alternative building options!
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