The record-breaking hurricane season of 2015 had three close calls — and wake-up calls — for Hawaii. Kilo, Ignacio and Jimena, all Category-4 hurricanes, marched across the Central Pacific, one after the other, on a direct course for the Islands. Luckily, all three veered away from Hawaii at the last minute.
It’s hurricane season again and the potential for a major hurricane to impact Hawaii remains a constant possibility. For those living in single-wall construction homes, the potential for storm damage is even higher. Graham Builders, Hawaii’s design-build, and multi-generational living specialists, can transform your single-wall house into a safe and beautiful new home.
Single-wall homes were built before 1970, when building codes changed to require more secure double-wall construction. Single-wall homes are notoriously hot, noisy and nearing the end of its lifespan, not to mention ill-equipped to handle the impact of a major hurricane. Homeowners with single-wall construction homes should consider the benefits and cost savings of tearing down and building a new home, instead of renovating that old, tired house.
Today’s double-wall construction homes are built from stronger, better materials than what was available 50 years ago. They feature insulation in the walls and the roof, which lessen heat gained from direct sun exposure and reduce noise — that means a cooler, quieter living space. The drywall hung in today’s homes also aid in fire mitigation. If a major hurricane were to hit Hawaii and power lines were downed, structure fires could be a major concern.
A new home built by following the current regulations is also structurally more secure and safer. Old single-wall post and pier homes sit on grade, meaning they rest on top of the ground. New construction requires a continuous connection from the top of the home down through the foundation — roof to frame to foundation — and actually into the ground or below grade. The difference would be a pop-up tent that is just resting on the ground versus one that is staked into the ground. It’s known how quickly the wind can pick up a pop-up tent and send it flying across the beach or park if it’s not secured to the ground. The same could be true for your home in a hurricane.
The longer you wait to rebuild, the more expensive the process will be for the homeowner. And for those thinking of piecemeal renovations on an old home, you’ll spend more money in the long run and also put in more energy, as the renovations will seemingly never end on a 50-year-old-plus home.
The Graham Builders team invites you to join them at the free upcoming Building Your
Home For Life seminar on Saturday, Sept. 9 from 9-11 a.m. at the Honolulu Country Club. Educate yourself about the design-and-build process by registering today at GrahamBuilders.com or call 593-2808 to reserve your spot.
GRAHAM BUILDERS
contact // 593-2808
web // grahambuilders.com
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