Floods are a common and costly natural disaster. They cause significant damage to infrastructure, disrupt lives, and can even lead to loss of life. As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, flooding is expected to become even more frequent and severe.

For many people, building a flood proof house is no longer an option; it's a necessity. How do you build a flood proof house? In this article, we'll explore flood proof home construction using innovative materials and techniques, with a focus on insulated concrete forms (ICFs).

The Threat of Floods

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Floods have increased in frequency, duration, and intensity over the last few decades. More communities are having to deal with these disasters than ever before. Floods and their counterpart, droughts, make up more than 20% of annual economic losses due to extreme weather. In the U.S. alone, this results in billions of dollars in economic damage.

In addition to the economic damage, floods destroy communities and take lives. In 2022, more than 100 people were killed in the U.S. due to floods. Floods can be deadly and will destroy anything in their way that is unprepared. Preventing floods may be impossible, but we can build our homes to be ready for them.

Building a Flood Proof House: Where to Start

Flood proofing house techniques begin with a good understanding of your property and the risks associated with it. The first step in building a flood proof house is to evaluate the flood risk for your specific location. Once you know your risk level, you can start planning for flood resistance.

The construction techniques used can vary depending on the flood risk. For example, in a high-risk area, the house may need to be elevated on piles or columns. In a moderate risk area, you might consider sealing your home to prevent water from entering.

Regardless of the techniques used, the materials you choose can make a significant difference in your home's resilience.

How to Build a Flood Proof House with Insulated Concrete Forms

Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are a popular choice for flood proof housing. ICFs are hollow blocks made of foam insulation, which are stacked to form the shape of the building's walls. The blocks consist of two sheets of foam held together with ties to form a hollow cavity in between the foam. After dry-stacking the blocks, rebar is placed into the cavity. Concrete is then poured into the hollow cores to create a solid, resilient structure.

Building a flood proof house with ICFs has several advantages. ICFs are naturally resistant to water damage and the EPS insulation does not absorb water.. Unlike wood, concrete does not rot, warp, or promote mold growth when exposed to water. ICFs also retain their excellent thermal resistance properties after being exposed to flood waters. They provide superior energy efficiency, which can reduce heating and cooling costs. Most importantly, ICFs are durable and can withstand the force of floodwaters. After exposure to a flood the ICF walls are spray-washed clean and dried out before the re-application of the finishes.

The Benefits of Building with ICFs

Beyond their flood resistance, ICFs offer numerous other benefits for homeowners. They provide superior insulation to reduce energy costs and make homes more comfortable. The solid concrete core provides excellent soundproofing, to help create a quiet, peaceful living environment. ICFs also provide superior fire resistance compared to traditional construction materials.

The durability of ICFs means your home will last for generations. The blocks can resist severe weather conditions, including hurricanes and earthquakes. ICF walls are so strong that they are even used for constructing storm shelters. This durability translates into lower maintenance and repair costs over the life of the home.

Finally, building with ICFs is a more sustainable choice. The blocks are made from up to 48% recycled materials by weight and the high energy efficiency of ICF homes reduces carbon emissions. The concrete used in the walls is also often locally sourced.

Fox Blocks: Your Partner in Building a Flood Proof House

When it comes to building a flood proof house, Fox Blocks is a leader in the industry. They offer a range of ICF products to suit any project. Their expert team can guide you through the process of building your flood resistant home, and can provide advice and support on why ICF blocks are the superior choice for any flood proof home.

At Fox Blocks, they understand that building a home is a significant investment. That's why they are committed to providing high-quality, durable products that deliver superior performance and value. Fox Blocks ICFs are designed to provide the best in flood resistance, energy efficiency, and comfort.

Building a flood proof house can seem daunting, but with the right materials and guidance, it's an achievable goal. By choosing to build with ICFs, you're not only protecting your home from floods; you're also investing in a sustainable, energy-efficient, and comfortable home.

Ready to start building your flood resistant home? Contact Fox Blocks today to discuss your project and explore how they can help you build a home that stands strong, even when the waters rise!