Why do Florida homes use cinder blocks?

Concrete Homes are Pest Proof and Low Maintenance

In Florida, where termites are widespread, this is of particular importance. Concrete block construction also requires less repair and maintenance because concrete is less susceptible to rot like wood or rust like steel.

Do homes in Florida have to be built with cinder blocks?

Most of Florida's residential exteriors are built using one of two structural methods. One method is engineered frame wood construction and the other method is concrete block construction or CMU construction (short for concrete masonry unit). The exterior walls are constructed with 2 x 4 or 2 x 6 dimensional lumber.

Why are some homes built with cinder blocks?

Concrete block homes provide a greater durability and protection against earthquakes and fire than home built from wood, a concern for all Southern Californian homeowners. Also, owners of concrete block homes do not have to worry about problems of wood warping and termite damage like owners of wood framed homes.

What is the best building material for Florida homes?

Engineered hardwood is great for Florida's coastal climate because it isn't negatively influenced by humidity and temperature fluctuations, as solid hardwood is. White oak is another option to consider. Concrete is gaining popularity as well, both inside and outside.

Are cinder block houses hurricane proof?

Concrete block construction puts eight inches of pure strength between you and the elements. It can withstand winds up to 250 miles per hour and provide extra security during hurricanes, tornadoes and even earthquakes.

How a concrete home is built in Florida, by Gordon Berken

Can water leak through cinder block?

Like other foundations, cinder block foundations can succumb to water seepage. This is a problem that no homeowner should ignore. The problem only gets worse over time. It is therefore important to deal with the seepage as soon as you notice it.

Do cinder blocks break with heat?

Remember, cinder and concrete blocks are not fireproof. They're fire resistant. They can generally handle heat in the 600°F-700°F range. After that they can crumble in high heat.

Why are homes in Florida built on slabs?

Most Floridian homes are built on slabs due to the Floridian Aquifer System. This system is underground and can be as little as 6 inches from the ground surface. Meaning you could dig in your yard to place a fence or a mailbox and delve straight into water.

Why do houses in Florida use stucco?

The majority of homes in Florida are covered in stucco. This convenient and affordable building material is made up of thin layers of cement that are designed to protect homes from moisture. In theory, stucco should last the lifetime of any home that is properly maintained and well cared for.

Why are houses in Florida built on concrete slabs?

Storm Resistant Especially here in Florida, having a home that can stand up to Mother Nature is critical. Concrete block construction puts eight inches of concrete block between you and the elements, withstanding winds up to 250 miles per hour and providing more security in hurricanes, tornadoes and even earthquakes.

What are the cons of a cinder block house?

Cons of a Concrete Block House

The price of the concrete blocks is not the same for every region, the price fluctuates for every other region. Also, the additional cost to the blocks as they are plain and grey can increase your cost of construction.

How many years does a cinder block last?

Block doesn't rot, warp or grow mold, and it stands up remarkably well to even the most extreme weather. Even with a lifespan of up to 100 years, you can be sure the building's structural integrity isn't compromised over the years like it can be with wood.

Do block homes in Florida need insulation?

For block walls, interior insulation must meet or exceed R-7.8, and exterior insulation must be R-6. Ceiling insulation must be much higher at R-30, and a raised floor must be at least R-13. Insulating power, or R-Value, is only one factor to consider when building or improving a home to keep it comfortable.

Is cinder block better than poured concrete?

Poured concrete wall foundations are arguably stronger than cinder blocks. Poured walls have a better lateral strength, which means they can resist more pressure from the water and the soil outside. A poured wall doesn't have joints like a block wall, so it is easier to waterproof.

Do I need a permit to pour a concrete slab in Florida?

All concrete flat work (slab), whether considered structural or non-structural (to include pavers), requires a permit and inspections. Work performed one foot or less from an existing structure will be required to be termite treated.

How long does stucco last in Florida?

Stucco is a very durable finish material with a typical life span of 50-80 years or more. Although it is one of the most durable surfaces available, it also features the lowest annual maintenance cost when compared to other siding materials. Stucco is a natural material consisting of an aggregate, a binder, and water.

What is the most serious problem with exterior stucco?

When a home's stucco doesn't have the necessary space or is below the grade, it can trap water and moisture leading to the formation of mold, rotting, cracking, and crumbling. Additionally, the stucco will begin to soak up even more moisture from the ground.

Should I avoid buying a stucco house?

Due to its brittle nature, stucco siding will crack if a house foundation settles. It simply isn't the best choice in regions where soil is high in clay, notorious for swelling and causing foundations to shift. Over time, even stucco on homes with firm foundations can develop hairline cracks.

Why do Florida houses have 1 floor?

In an effort to keep houses cooler during the summer months, many homes in Florida built after 1980 incorporated the 'great room' design. This method of construction normally features vaulted or high ceilings where most of the common rooms are under one roof, not separated by floor to ceiling walls.

Why do so many Florida homes have tile floors?

Tile is very water-resistant and is commonly used in areas such as kitchens, restrooms, laundry rooms and other humid spaces. It comes in a variety of styles, colors and finishes, and can be used on concrete slabs, which most Florida homes are built on.

Why don t Florida homes have gutters?

However, a huge portion of homes still have little to no guttering. The fact that Florida has a sandy soil and most moisture is absorbed quickly without homeowners seeing the ponding may be the reason for this. Or, it may be that builders are trying to save on costs and decided that gutters are not important.

Do cinder block houses stay cool?

Concrete mass slows the movement of heat through a wall compared to wood. So, a concrete home will stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer than a wood-framed house with the same amount of insulation.

Do cinder block houses need insulation?

Whether it's your existing house or commercial building, those block walls need insulation, so you've decided to go with RetroFoam insulation. RetroFoam works great as block wall insulation because it creates an air seal that stops air movement.

Are cinder blocks a permanent foundation?

Are concrete blocks or piers considered a permanent foundation? Permanent foundations consist of many components. Moreover, concrete blocks are considered a permanent foundation when using them in conjunction with seismic E.R.B.S. (Earthquake Resistant Bracing Systems).