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I,m building myself a small house for my residents, a 30×40 concrete block with a 5/12 gable roof. Nothing fancy at all, justa small three bedroom. But because I live on the gul coast, we get an occasional hurricane every once in awhile. Also with the long heat spells during the summer.
So do anybody have any tips concerning high wind resisance and energy efficently?
Listeners write in about removing masonry chimneys and ask about blocked ridge vents, deal-breakers with fixer-uppers, and flashing ledgers that are spaced from the wall.
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Replies
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JB,
The block building I built for myself 20 years ago has gone through a few big storms. Hurricane Andrew blew the aerometer off a local plant at 110 mph.
Pour your corner, window, and door block cores solid with concrete. Lay out and rebar up at these locations. Run a U-block as a top course and fill this also. Don't forget anchor bolts in this for top plate. Brace the hell out of your gables, that's the weak point. Hurricane clips also.
Code may have changed on core filling, better check.
KK
*I build it strong Johnie...Da wind like da wolf could blow da damn thing down to get your ass kilt if ya don't carful be.neart ta stream a just a relaxin sorta,aj
*Chack out Simpson's catalog - "The well connected Structure" (Or something like that) You can learn a lot from that catalog.
*Since I'm an insulated concrete panel fan, I suggest taking a look at these. There are many different systems out there, all about the same but with different ties. The advantage is a solid reinforced concrete wall with 2" insulation inside and out. You could stop a tank with such a structure. My experience is with Lite Form, http://www.litefrom.comThey claim an R19 wall for good energy efficiency summer or winter. You can get vinyl inserts to place in the wall for windows and doors, or use green treated lumber and make your own frames. I know of several people who have built with these forms and they all say how quiet it is inside. Sheet rock is attached to the wall ties, and a hot iron is used to make a groove for wiring. As for attaching the roof, there are many metal "hurricane clip" items which can be purchased. You may want to consult your local building inspector, as there may be local requirements or specifications.
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I,m building myself a small house for my residents, a 30x40 concrete block with a 5/12 gable roof. Nothing fancy at all, justa small three bedroom. But because I live on the gul coast, we get an occasional hurricane every once in awhile. Also with the long heat spells during the summer.
So do anybody have any tips concerning high wind resisance and energy efficently?