Modular Houses in flood risk areas have become an increasingly popular option for those looking for an affordable, customizable, and quick-to-build housing solution.
But for those living in flood risk areas, the question of whether modular homes are a safe option can be a concern.
First, it’s important to understand what modular homes are.
These homes are built offsite in a factory setting, using the same materials and techniques as traditional stick-built homes.
They are then transported to their final location and assembled on site.
Modular Houses in flood risk areas offer many benefits, including a faster construction process, lower cost, and the ability to be customized to meet the specific needs and preferences of the homeowner.
When it comes to flood risk, it’s important to note that no type of home can completely eliminate the risk of flood damage.
However, modular homes can be designed to be more resistant to flood damage, and there are steps that homeowners can take to protect their homes in the event of a flood.
One option is to build the modular home on a higher foundation, which can help to minimize the risk of floodwaters reaching the home.
Additionally, modular homes can be built with materials that are resistant to water damage, such as concrete or metal, which can help to minimize the amount of damage that a flood can cause.
Another option is to have the modular home built with a design that allows it to be easily disassembled and moved to a safer location in the event of a flood warning.
This can be particularly useful for those living in areas with a high risk of flooding, as it provides a way to protect the home and its occupants in the event of an emergency.
Let’s have a look at how small, prefabricated homes can play a huge role in disaster management.
Some advantages of using a prefabricated home are as follows
- They can be constructed in less time
- They are cost-effective
Characteristics of a prefabricated home:
- They are constructed using materials that are long-lasting
- They are not top-heavy
- Flexibility and ability to withstand winds
In wildfire-prone areas, these prefabricated homes should be constructed in such a way that the homes are resistant to water and fire. In this case, the material used should not be made of wood rather using concrete or steel.
In earthquake-prone areas, prefabricated homes with a single story are preferred with reinforced structural connections.
When tiny homes are used for disaster relief, similar characteristics are found.
When they are constructed below 500 square feet and are not built like prefabricated elements, they are called tiny homes.
The difference between tiny homes and temporary homes is that tiny homes are built using normal construction materials and techniques and so they withstand as long as traditional homes.
There is something called resilient tiny homes that are similar to disaster-resilient prefabricated homes. These are built with components that can withstand threats.
Pros
- They fall within the budget
- Quick construction
Cons
- Materials are not prefabricated
Another important advantage of tiny homes is that they can be disassembled and moved.
Both prefabricated homes and tiny homes can be effective in protecting against water, fire, and wind.
In the UK such houses require a flood risk assessment.
What do you think about DIY home design? Doesn’t it sound exciting? These are some examples of modular house in areas long term flood zone risk areas.
MU50 – TEKE Architects
Have you heard of the MU50? A modular off-grid home, designed by a Genoa-based firm TEKE Architects, can be virtually configured to any landscape.
It uses prefabricated timber homes in such a way that they can be attached and formed into a variety of layouts.
An important characteristic of the MU50 design is that it uses recyclable and reusable materials ensuring minimal impact on the environment.
The MU50 design consists of an overhang roof made of either copper, aluminium, or wood. This roof comes with solar panels and also provides many climate control features.
This design allows for maximum flexibility as the living space is an open plan allowing air ventilation and natural lighting into the living area.
California Meadow Home by Olson Kundig
Have you heard of a home that is luxurious yet sustainable?
Check out this home by Olson Kundig – a Seattle-based firm that is completely net-zero energy.
This California Meadow home is designed with a view to Santa Cruz mountains for a five-member family with three separate guest cottages, a swimming pool, and private vineyards.
The theme of this design is outdoor living and it runs on a large solar array on the roof.
The narrow, long structure of the home allows for cross-ventilation thus lowering the need for air conditioning.
Modular Houses in flood risk areas – Modular HIVEHAUS Home
The important feature of HIVEHAUS homes is the ease and quick construction that comes along with them.
An ideal cell configuration will consist of a living area, kitchen, office, bathroom, and bedroom.
These cells can be assembled in less than a day with as low as two people.
It also comes with various green building features like circular skydomes and solar panels.
Rammed concrete home in Portugal
This home in the rural region of Grândola is designed by the Portuguese firm Atelier 1111.
This house is energy efficient since it incorporates thickened stone walls, rammed concrete and green roofs.
One of the prime characteristics of this home is the thermal comfort it provides.
The inspiration for the design is from the surrounding landscape consisting of stone pine, cork, and olive trees.
The highest point in the sloped land gives an extraordinary view of the Atlantic ocean.
Stunning Off-Grid iT House
This house is built in one of the naturally formed areas near the Coachella Valley and Joshua Tree National Park.
Incorporating cross-ventilation, passive heating, and cooling techniques, and thermal panels on the roof, this home achieves energy efficiency.
Floor-to-ceiling windows made of glass provide natural lighting.
In conclusion, Modular Houses in flood risk areas can be a good option for those living in flood risk areas when they are properly designed and built with flood resistance in mind.
By considering factors such as foundation height, materials, and the ability to be easily moved in an emergency, homeowners can help to minimize the risk of flood damage and protect their investment.
It’s also important for homeowners in flood risk areas to have proper insurance coverage and a plan in place for emergencies.
This can help to protect against the financial impact of flood damage and ensure that the necessary repairs can be made quickly and efficiently.
