Climate Issues Affecting Florida Construction

Construction management is not easy. There are a lot of elements involved, from building the foundation to putting on the roof and finishing touches. There are many things to consider with the overall design and build process. There are a lot of external factors involved as well, such as rising costs of materials and weather conditions.

Many construction professionals underestimate the impact of extreme weather, but it plays a huge role in ensuring a home or a building is successfully built and completed. Many states have to deal with extreme heat and cold. Some states, like California, are prone to earthquakes. Louisiana is known for areas that are below sea level, so that’s a consideration for general contractors.

While Florida is known as the Sunshine State, it is also known for having some of the most powerful hurricanes on record. In fact, the state has been affected by approximately 40% of all hurricanes in the United States.

Buildings need to be able to withstand high winds (possibly 200 miles per hour) and there are tougher building codes involved, requiring stronger windows, roofs, and materials. Because of these elements, constructing strong buildings is a top priority in Florida. Beside hurricanes, here are some other climate and weather concerns affecting Florida construction.

Rising Sea Levels

Florida is especially vulnerable to sea-level rise due to its low elevation and vast coastline. As oceans rise, saltwater can damage infrastructure. It affects construction because foundations near coasts are more susceptible to erosion and instability. Saltwater corrodes steel, concrete, and other materials, increasing maintenance needs. Contractors must often elevate structures, use deep pilings, or install seawalls, all of which increase project costs.

Heat and Humidity

The state’s hot, humid climate is intensifying with climate change. This affects construction in several ways:

• Workers are at increased risk of heat exhaustion and must follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, which can slow productivity with mandated rest and hydration breaks.
• Materials like concrete cure faster in heat, which can weaken structural integrity if not handled properly.
• Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, which can affect materials or delay interior work.

Water Management and Flooding

Heavy rains, poor drainage, and a high water table can significantly disrupt construction. Sites may flood more frequently, delaying excavation, foundation work, and inspections. Builders need to invest in improved stormwater management systems, like retention ponds and permeable pavement. High groundwater levels may require additional waterproofing, sump systems, or raised flooring designs to keep buildings dry.

Contact Us Today

Building in Florida can be complicated due to the climate, which can include hurricanes and hot weather.

A Florida construction lawyer from Linkhorst Law Firm can ensure you have clauses in place to protect yourself as a contractor building in the Sunshine State. We understand the laws involved. Let us help you get your contract squared away. To schedule a consultation with our office, call 561-626-8880 or fill out the online form.

Source:

targetbuilders.com/how-environmental-factors-affect-florida-construction/