Why are there no houses with basements in Florida?

Florida has a large aquifer system that spans around 100,000 square miles and provides water for many large cities. The groundwater’s very close to the surface in most parts of Florida and Southern Georgia. Because of the high water table and proximity to the ocean, it is impossible to dig out for a basement.

Why are houses built on slabs in Florida?

Florida Aquifer System 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. The closer you live to the coast, the higher the water table and the increased risk of flooding to your home.

Why are homes in Florida made of concrete?

Energy Efficient Due to concrete block’s thermal mass, a home constructed with concrete block holds heat longer in cool weather, and cool air inside for longer periods, even in the heat of a Florida summer. That means that as long as you live there, your home will retain its curb appeal – and its value.

Why don t Florida homes have gutters?

And since Florida has sandy soil, houses are typically designed without basements, therefore they have no underground support besides the footers and slabs. Any water repeatedly falling close to the house is likely to damage the foundation. A common misconception is that heavy rains are too much for gutters.

Does slab foundation mean no basement?

A slab-on-grade means no basement, no basement walls, just one slab of concrete on which you build your house. They aren’t suitable for all building sites, which we will get into later, but for now let’s assume you can build on one.

Are most houses in Florida made of concrete?

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 do they block build in Florida?

Block-built houses used to be the rage in Florida. Consumers and builders chose them over frame-built houses because concrete-block houses were thought to be stronger, more resistant to termites and free from the rot problems that can affect wood.

Can you build concrete houses in Florida?

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).

Do newcomers to Florida homes have basements?

Newcomers to Florida are often surprised when they are told their new home will not have a basement. Modern houses are built small, directly on top of concrete slabs, with no basement. This often presents a storage problem.

Why do some houses have no basement or crawl space?

Some houses don’t have a basement or crawl space under them but are simply built on a concrete slab – perhaps because the house sits on bedrock or a high water table. The concrete is poured onto the ground all at one time.

What is the difference between a slab and a foundation?

The foundation that your house is built on can have a major impact on the structural integrity of your home. A slab foundation is made of concrete that is typically 4″–6″ thick in the center. The concrete slab is often placed on a layer of sand for drainage or to act as a cushion.

Should you buy a concrete block and steel home in Florida?

There has been a long debate about whether you need to buy a concrete block and steel (CBS) home in Florida vs. a wood frame home. Wood-frame construction, until recently, seemed to be a good option.